Explore the Swedish West Coast

The Bohuslän coast is truly one of Sweden’s most enchanting regions. A true treasure. From the city of Gothenburg all the way up to the border with Norway, the coastline runs almost 280 kilometres and includes more than 7.000 islands. It’s the perfect excuse for a road trip from Gothenburg or a truly special staycation.

Go your own way

A fabulous way of experiencing the Bohuslän coast and inland is by hiking or cycling. From short day trips with meals prepared with locally sourced food to more challenging hikes. The best hiking trails in the region are:

The Kuststigen Coastal Path

One of the most scenic hiking trails in West Sweden. It stretches from the island of Tjörn in the south, all the way up the west coast to Oslo. Some of the stages are on islands and the most spectacular are those found on Dyrön, Bohus-Malmön, Ramsvikslandet, Fjällbacka and the Koster islands.

The Bohus Path

Bohus Path in West Sweden is a classic long-distance footpath that stretches from Strömstad in the north to Lindome in the south. The footpath passes through a wide variety of landscapes and is divided into several sections, from easy to difficult, which are suitable for day trips or weekend walks.

By bike

If you are more of a cycling person, the region provides you with scenic yet safe cycling paths (most of them paved) through its gorgeous countryside. From the Gothenburg archipelago in the south to the town of Strömstad and the Koster islands in the north, bikes are a great way to get around. Some routes need boat transfers but you’re welcome to roll your bike on board, no worries.

By water

Alternatively, take to the water in a sea kayak and explore the coast’s uninhabited islets and islands at your own pace. The American TV programme “Facing Waves” has filmed West Swedish paddling over winter, spring and summer. So take a look and be inspired.

Adventure is also just a boat trip away. Thanks to the help of local ferries and boat companies, it’s easy to get around the numerous islands in the Bohuslän archipelago.

Roam free

Last but not least, here in Sweden you have the freedom to roam the nature. Please, just remember to be respectful with the flora and fauna and leave it untouched. Once you know the basics, island hopping is the most exciting activity I can imagine doing in this archipelago. Pitch your tent on a deserted island and enjoy, it’s all yours!!

World-class seafood

As you’d expect, the landscape is dominated by the sea: this is a region of rocky cliffs and islands (lots of them). Naturally, small fishing communities grew up around the numerous natural harbours and the humble herring remained the region’s lifeblood until the early 1900s.

Today, Bohuslän is well-known for its indulgent seafood. “The Big Five from the Big Blue”, lobsters, oysters, prawns, mussels and crayfish. all thrive in the deep, cold and exceptionally clean waters off the Swedish west coast. If you want to experience the whole process, book a “seafood safari” a journey where you’ll be participating in the fishing and preparation of these delicacies, as well as the tasting, at five different, beautiful coastal locations including the city of Gothenburg.

A jewel in the water

Kosterhavet National Park is Sweden’s first marine national park. It is part of the Koster sea and more than 99.5% of this unique environment is under water. It stretches from the town Strömstad in the north to Grebbestad (oyster capital of Sweden) in the south and provides the right conditions for more than 12,000 types of plants and animal creatures. It’s easy to spot seals lolling in the waves or on the rocks.

Must-see sights and attractions

Marstrand and Carlsten’s Fortress
Marstrand is one of the most famous towns on the Bohuslän coast. The great fortress has protected the little wooden town below for over 300 years. These days the fortress is a captivating place to visit. You can sense the fascinating past of the fortress as a line of defence and a jail for notorious criminals. You can also stay overnight here, go to concerts and take part in other events, especially sailing.

Bohuslän Museum, Uddevalla
The Bohuslän Museum is a regional museum with the aim of documenting, maintaining and relating Bohuslän’s natural and cultural heritage.

Nordens Ark – A Park for Endangered Species
Nordens Ark is home to endangered species from all over the world, from tigers to toads! It is their job to breed and release animals including: the peregrine falcon, white-backed woodpecker and lesser white-fronted goose. You can visit all-year-round.

Vitlycke Museum and Rock Carvings

The rock carvings in Tanumshede are on the Unesco´s list of World Heritages. These magnificent pictures, some carved 3000 years ago, bear a unique testimony to the Bronze Age world. It is free to get in and, if you’re willing to pay a modest amount of money, you can benefit from various guided tours including a rock carving experience!

Nordic Watercolour Museum

In a beautiful setting among the smooth, flowing, granite landscape of Skärhamn on the island of Tjörn, the Nordic Watercolour Museum features works by the vanguard of the international scene, as well as classic watercolours. The museum serves as a Nordic centre for contemporary art, research and education, with an emphasis on watercolour techniques.

Oysters and the Oyster Academy in Grebbestad

Grebbestad is the oyster capitol of Sweden and has serving up shellfish since the 17th century. Roughly 90 percent of Swedish oysters come from this area and it is also the home of the Swedish Oyster Academy, a non-profit association for all oyster enthusiasts!

To put it simply, Bohuslän is Sweden at its best… go and enjoy it!

Banner Image:Amplifyphoto- Markus Holm/Westsweden.com

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