Midsummer on Hanö

This wonderful little island in the south-east of Sweden is a real gem off the beaten track

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Approaching a yet unvisited island never loses its charm.

The feeling of anticipation as it appears from the morning mist as you draw closer. This one appeared on the horizon at about five in the morning. As we came into the lee of the island, its silhouette gradually turned from grey to dark green and I was looking forward to discovering this new, fresh, unknown little world. I was pleased to arrive with the first sunshine. My daughters were sleeping below decks and I let them sleep, quite selfishly. I wanted this mood all to myself. It was only just before we entered the harbour that they came on deck, curious.

A HAVEN FOR ARTISTS

Hanö not only lends its name to the entire large bay, Hanöbukten, it is also an island of art and artists. Walking along the paths ashore, every now and then you come across a sculpture, mostly made of wood, and always beautiful - even at the end of the pier, a mysterious female figure with wings on her back looks out over the sea.

These sculptures, made by various artists, blend well with the ancient landscape.

On another part of the island, there is an enchanted fairytale forest where deer and stags roam, undisturbed and fearless of the few humans that accidentally stumble across this secret and magical spot.

Back at the harbour, preparations for the midsummer fete are well underway.

Even at midday, the party mood is evident.