The Map of Quietude is an ongoing initiative by Visit Skåne where we explore silence as a cultural and environmental resource. It began with an insight: in a world where noise pollution is rising and stress levels are increasing, people long for stillness. In our key markets, sound pollution has become a growing public health concern, with urban noise affecting both mental balance and physical wellbeing. By combining audience research on travel motivations with this data, and with scientific studies showing how natural sounds and silence improve human health, we identified an opportunity to make quietness itself a reason to visit Skåne.

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The result became an interactive map that guides visitors to some of Skåne’s most tranquil nature spots, from coastal cliffs and beech forests to wetlands, beaches and rural hideaways. Each place was carefully selected and measured on site. We recorded decibel levels to document the real sound environment and captured one-hour soundscapes to let people experience how each place actually sounds. These recordings are available to stream online, offering a sensory preview of Skåne’s natural calm before travelling.

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Developed in collaboration with the municipalities of Skåne through Ett Skånskt Partnerskap, the project aims to inspire more mindful and regenerative forms of travel. By connecting these places digitally, The Map of Quietude encourages visitors to discover Skåne differently, slowly, consciously and with respect for nature.

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Since its launch, the project has received international media attention and positioned Skåne as a region that treats silence as a resource for wellbeing, sustainability and identity. It continues to grow as both a digital guide and a mindset for how to experience nature with awareness.