Hörte harbour

The development of the harbour

The area was originally used by local farmers for seasonal fishing. During the 19th century, however, Hörte gradually developed into a permanent fishing village. As the original harbour became silted up, the owner of the Dybäck estate constructed a new harbour in the 1870s by dredging the Dybäck River.

There are rumours that Vikings once landed at Hörte, although this has never been confirmed. For many years, the harbour belonged to The Malmöhus County Eel Fishers’ Association (Malmöhus Läns Ålfiskarförening). In 1969, it was donated to the present-day non-profit harbour association, which continues to manage the site and preserve its unique cultural environment.

Although the old fishing village has disappeared, the harbour remains – a reminder of Hörte’s long and fascinating history. Today, it forms part of a beautiful and varied coastal landscape.

Rich birdlife

The area around Hörte harbour is known for its diverse birdlife. A public birdwatching hide is available for visitors and is frequently used by bird enthusiasts. From here, you have an excellent view of migrating geese, ducks, and waders in both spring and autumn. During winter, the coastal meadows between Hörte and Bingsmarken are one of the few places where you may spot the rare water pipit.

Interesting flora

The wetlands at Bingsmarken offer a rich and varied flora, featuring species such as water avens, meadow saxifrage, cuckoo flower, and greater bird’s foot trefoil. Several distinctive grasses also grow here, including smooth brome – found at its only known site in Skåne.

The Hörte ruin

Just east of the harbour, along the coastal road and the steep shoreline, stands a decorative “ruin”: a gable built of granite and brick. It was constructed in 1907 by Albert Balzar Wallis of Dybäck Castle to commemorate the former Hörtehus, a warehouse from the Hanseatic era. Creating artificial ancient monuments was a popular practice among estates and castles during the Romantic period of the 19th century.

Sweden’s southernmost deciduous forest

East of Hörte harbour and the mouth of the Dybäck River lies Hörte forest – Sweden’s southernmost deciduous forest. Here, you can find oak, chestnut, maple, and beech trees. The forest and its surroundings are especially important for birdlife and contribute to the area’s high ecological value.