Explore the idyllic coastline

Discover Sweden's West Coast

The beautiful region of West Sweden stretches from Gothenburg in the south to the Norwegian border and consists of three provinces, Bohuslan, Dalsland and Vastergotland. Each province offers its own attractions and wonderful reasons to visit - our self-drive trip to Bohuslan explores the West Coast with its rocky cliffs, thousands of islets and skerries, picturesque fishing villages and some of the most delicious shellfish in the world.

Our holiday starts in the charming city of Gothenburg, the gateway to Bohuslan and a great starting place, before making your way up the coast and the opportunity to visit idyllic islands, hike and bike on scenic trails, join fishing trips, kayak on the crystal clear waters, visit cultural and historic sites, enjoy culinary delights at one of the many restaurants and a must for all visitors, to stop for a traditional Swedish fika - a well deserved break to enjoy a cinnamon bun ‘kanelbulle’ or two!

This road-trip is just an example of how you can explore the coastal area of Bohuslan, but with so much to see, it is totally flexible and can be extended to spend more time here, or include the other regions in West Sweden. There are many unique experiences and a wonderful range of different accommodation types to choose from. Our Sales team will be delighted to discuss the options and put together a bespoke itinerary for you.

Enquire

Tasty langostines - photo credit Tina Stafren

Coastal scenery - photo credit per pixel petersson

Island village life - photo credit per pixel petersson

Lobster Safari - photo credit Roger Borgelid

Marstrand island - photo credit per pixel petersson

Fjallbacka village - photo credit per pixel petersson

Kayaking near Fjallbacka - photo credit Henrik Trygg

Evening hike - photo credit Lucas Gunther

Paddling in the clear waters - photo credit Henrik Trygg

Enjoy Swedish Fika - photo credit Alexander Hall

Calm coastal waters - photo credit per pixel petersspn

Stunning West Coast - photo credit per pixel petersson

Beach Hut - photo credit Andreas Nordstrom

Stunning Archipelago - photo credit Roger Borgelid

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN

Day 1:

On arrival at Gothenburg Landvetter Airport, make your way to the city centre. You can travel by public transport, taking the Flygbussarna coach with regular departures to the city centre station. The journey time is 30 minutes and tickets can be bought online or at ticket machines at the airport.

Depending on your hotel location, there are taxis available at the station or many are within walking distance. Check-in and get acquainted with the accommodation before heading out and spending time in this vibrant city.

Day 2:

Today is at leisure for you to explore Gothenburg. There are many attractions to enjoy, perhaps visit Liseberg amusement park, one of Sweden’s most visited tourist attractions; take a ‘Swedish Fika’ break in Haga, a charming neighbourhood with cobbled streets, cosy cafes and enticing shops; take in some culture at the Museum of Art; enjoy the views from Skansen Kronen - a fortress dating back to the 1690’s; visit Universum Science Centre which houses an entire rainforest, an aquarium hall and exciting exhibitions, or spend time in the beautiful 19th century park Tradgardsforeningen and the Gothenburg Botanical Garden and of course, enjoy one of the many restaurants, bars and eateries where you’ll find delicious seafood and the famous cinnamon bun.

Day 3:

Collect the rental car and begin the road trip heading out of the city. An hour’s drive from Gothenburg lies Marstrand, an idyllic island with the impressive Carlsten Fortress taking centre stage. Take a stroll around the pretty quay area or stretch your legs with various walking routes around the island, and when you reach the top of the Fortress you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the coastline and its many islands.

Another option is to visit the island of Tjorn, one of Sweden’s largest islands and ideal for hiking, cycling and kayaking enthusiasts. Make a stop at Skulptur I Pilane, a unique outdoor sculpture park or visit the Nordic Watercolour Museum in Skarhamn.

Continue the drive along the stunning coastline, making your way to Ladfabriken, a boutique accommodation located on the island Orust and just a few metres from the sea. With just four rooms, you will be well looked after by the owners, who have lovingly created a wonderful and unique place to stay. Evening meals at Ladfabriken are focussed on the fresh seafood. They can be pre-booked and vary in price depending on the choice. Please ask for further details.

Day 4:

Ladfabriken will be your base for two nights, with time to relax, eat well, hike in the area and if you wish, use the kayaks which are available for guests to use in the beautiful crystal clear waters. It is also possible to arrange different fishing trips depending on the season. Eat at the hotel or perhaps venture out by car and find a local restaurant.

Day 5:

After breakfast continue the trip heading along the coast, visiting the small fishing villages along the way. Don’t forget to stop for Fika. A nice place to stop for lunch is Musselbaren in Ljungskile, where you can taste the ‘blue gold’ mussels, harvested fresh from the sea. Another option is to stop at the popular village Fjallbacka, 90 minutes drive from Ladfabriken, and once home to Ingrid Bergman. It is also the setting for several novels by author Camilla Lackberg. If you have time, hike to Vetteberget, a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the village and the archipelago beyond.

Continue the short journey towards Grebbestad. On the way, head to Tanum, known for its many rock carvings and ancient monuments with Vitlycke museum, an information centre in the middle of Tanum World Heritage area and definitely worth a visit. In the area around Grebbestad are also several ancient monuments and a range of activities and sights, with remains from the Iron Age such as the Labyrinth Ulmekarr.

Your base for the next three nights,while you explore northern Bohuslan is at Everts Sjobod, just outside the town and with direct views towards the sea. There are two buildings, each with three room options. Breakfast is included here, and with so many wonderful restaurants in the area, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Day 6:

With such a rich coastline, it’s no surprise to learn that Kosterhavet National Park was Sweden’s first marine national park. Lying off the coast, the Koster Islands are a short boat trip away from Stromstad and offer experiences for all the family, such as fishing for crabs, cycling around the islands, join a seal safari or visit popular attractions including the Tjarno Aquarium, where you can learn more about life beneath the surface. It is also possible to enjoy the views from one of the hiking trails or rent a kayak.

If you have time, and just 40 minutes drive away is Nordens Ark, a wildlife park for endangered species. The park has about 60 different species and breeds from all over the world and embarks on several conservation projects.

Day 7:

Everts Sjobod can also arrange different fishing trips depending on the season. Try Crab and Mackerel fishing (May to September), Oyster tasting (September to June), and Lobster fishing (October & November). These can all be pre-booked.

If you prefer to take to the water but without the fishing, a great way to view the coastline is on a guided kayaking trip, paddling between islands and stopping off for fika. It is possible for a full-day or half-day trip.

Grebbestad is renowned for its shellfish and there are several restaurants to choose from, offering the famous blue oysters and other delights from the ocean’s pantry.

Day 8:

Make your way back to Gothenburg Airport (2 hours drive) and return the rental car before taking the flight home. Alternatively, extend your week holiday and spend time in Dalsland for a spot of hiking. Please speak to one of our Sales team for your personal quote.

BUDGET

From £792 per person(excluding flights), based on two sharing a room for 7 nights on bed & breakfast basis, including one evening meal and car rental for 6 days.

This roughly converts to: 911 EUR | 1,038 USD

Remember that each trip we craft is unique, and you'll receive a personalised trip proposal based on your travel dates and preferences, and in the currency of your choice (GBP, USD, or EUR).

Enquire

Additional Info

This trip has flexible daily departures

Many of trips can be tailored to your requirements and departure dates. Please get in touch with us for a tailored quotation and details of availability for your preferred travel dates. All trips and departures are subject to availability.

Enquire