Background
During Storm Babet on 20-21 October 2023, the beach at Knäbäckshusen suffered extensive damage. A significant number of trees fell, part of the beach was washed away, and both the slope and the steps collapsed. As a result, the beach at the staircase landing area and further south has been closed to the public to ensure the safety of visitors and residents. Simrishamn municipality urges everyone to respect the closure to allow nature and the slope to stabilise.
Why is the beach closed?
The stairs have disappeared and the risk of new landslides along the slope is considerable. There is also a significant risk of falling trees and rocks.
Why can't a new staircase be built by summer?
The continued movement along the slope makes it impossible to build a new staircase at the moment. We must first evaluate the progress of erosion and allow the slope to stabilise.
Is it safe to stay near the collapsed area?
No, it is risky to be close to the beach at Knäbäckshusen due to the risk of collapse along the slope and shoreline. The safest way for visitors to access the northern part of the beach is to walk from Stenshuvud along the beach, but enter the area at your own risk.
When can the beach reopen?
It is difficult to say exactly when the beach can be reopened. The opening depends on the possibility of building a new staircase and the development of beach erosion.
How does this affect other services or facilities in the area?
The car park and toilets will have the same opening hours as last summer. These are available for those who want to use Skåneleden for hiking to, for example, Stenshuvud.
How is Simrishamn municipality dealing with the situation?
We are regularly on site to assess risks and explore solutions to enable beach access.
Let's work together to ensure that our guests and residents have a great time on other beautiful beaches that Österlen has to offer. The very best way to help is to avoid stepping on the slope in Knäbäckshusen and thus give nature a chance to recover.
