östkust

Ostkust is a Swedish word meaning "east coast". It is commonly used to refer to the eastern coastline of Sweden, bordering the Baltic Sea. This region is characterized by its archipelago, numerous islands, and a varied landscape of forests, rocky shores, and agricultural land. Major cities and towns along the ostkust include Stockholm, the capital, as well as Norrköping, Linköping, and Kalmar. Historically, the ostkust has been a significant area for trade, shipping, and fishing, with many coastal communities developing around these industries. The Baltic Sea's influence shapes the climate, leading to cooler summers and colder winters compared to inland areas, with ice often forming along the coast in winter. The ostkust is also a popular destination for tourism, attracting visitors with its natural beauty, historical sites, and recreational opportunities such as sailing and archipelago exploration. The term can sometimes be used more broadly to refer to other east coasts, but in a Swedish context, it specifically denotes the eastern seaboard of the country.