Sweden
Gothenburg & Coastal Sweden
Discover the delights of rural Sweden and slow the pace of life down on this idyllic self-drive family holiday to western Sweden. Combine the wonderfully picturesque laid-back city of Gothenburg with time on the coast for kayaking, cycling on traffic-free islands, crab-fishing and the picturesque marina town of Strömstad. Then head inland to meet moose and beavers, enjoy some self-guided hiking and dine out around the fire before returning to Gothenburg for more city-based fun.
Food is a highlight throughout – from the traditional Swedish ‘fika’ (coffee and pastry) to the constant flow of mouth-watering seafood. In early summer, there are long days under the Midnight Sun. In late summer, there is the chance of witnessing the magical northern lights. Perfect for all ages, this is particularly well suited for younger families due to the short distances involved, easy activities and family-friendly accommodation.
Highlights
Explore Gothenburg
Kayak the Grebbestad Archipelago
Cycle the traffic-free Koster islands
Crab fishing boat adventure
Meet the moose of Dalsland
Open fire dining
Fika and fish at the seaside
12 days from £2,950 pp
Plus international flights from £200
A 12-day summer holiday in Sweden for a family of four usually costs from £11,800 plus flights based on good mid-range accommodation.
Gothenburg & Coastal Sweden day-by-day itinerary
Day 1, Gothenburg – Grebbestad
On arrival in Gothenburg, collect your hire car and head off to the coast. You may want to stop at the picturesque fishing village and island of Smogen, famed for its unbelievably fresh shrimps.
Continue up the coast to Kungsklyftan in Fjällbacka, taking in the panoramic view from Vetteberget with its unique archipelago of islands and islets. End the day at the charming seaside town of Grebbestad. This is the harbour for most of the fishing fleet for West Sweden so you can enjoy an endless smorgasbord of fresh seafood.
Day 2, Archipelago kayaking
Archipelago kayaking Enjoy a guided kayak tour in one of the most beautiful archipelagos in the world, offering safe, sheltered waters. This is a fantastic way to experience Swedish nature at its best as you paddle between islands and skerries (small islets or reefs).
Take a break on an island, where you can enjoy a traditional fika. The rest of the day is free to explore the local beaches and cliff walks, the nature reserves of Tjurpannan or stroll in the village with its cute souvenir shops – do not miss out on fika from the wonderful local bakery.
Day 3, Crab fishing
This afternoon, head out to try your hand at a truly traditional Swedish coastal experience – crab fishing! This is a genuine and exciting adventure in a small boat, which takes you close to the island and islets. Besides crabs, you will have the chance to spot starfish, seabirds and perhaps even a seal.
Of course, the trip includes the traditional ‘fika,’ to round off the enjoyment! Afterwards, head to a local restaurant where your ‘catch of the day’ will be served to you as part of your meal.
Day 4, Optional day trip to Nordens Ark
Head down the coast today to explore Nordens Ark, a private non-profit foundation that works to give endangered animals a future (including the Snow Leopard and Siberian Tiger). While this is a zoo, it’s unlike most British zoos. The enclosures for the animals go on far further than you can see from the paths, and all are built around the natural landscape. The long walking paths wind up and down over the hills and around the trees – great fun for kids to run around!
Pick up your bikes at Kostercykeln and head off to explore the islands on two wheels. Sweden is well known for its stress-free, friendly and safe environments, and this is a wonderful area to unwind in. In a typically leisurely fashion, after your ride, you will be able to leave your bikes at one of the many harbours, catch the ferry back to the mainland and drive back to Grebbestad.
Day 5, Grebbestad – Strömstad
Continue north today as you drive to your next stop, the small town of Strömstad, just shy of the Norwegian border. This charming spa town is home to a bustling historic harbour and colourful seaside buildings. Peaceful in the winter months, Strömstad transforms in the summer to a vibrant, buzzy place – don’t forget to try the famous shrimp!
On today’s journey you have the option to stop off and discover a different side of the Bronze Age in Vitlycke. You might like to visit the workshop where you can witness traditional crafts and kids will enjoy seeing the sheep that roam freely around the farm and visiting the pigs at the back of the farmhouse!
Read More Day 6, Cycling in Kosterhavets National Park Pick up your bikes at Kostercykeln and head off to explore the island on two wheels. There are maps of the island available, and various bike and walking paths. We will recommend a lovely beach for a lunch time picnic! In a typically leisurely fashion, after your ride, you will be able to leave your bikes at one of the many harbours, catch the ferry back to the mainland. Day 7, Strömstad – Dalsland Visit Dalslands Moose Ranch en-route where moose live much like wild animals do; outside feeding times, they wander the forests freely. The main difference is that the moose are sociable and are happy to come and greet visitors, big and small! Day 8, Dalsland Day 9, Canal boat ride and return by train Day 10, Dalsland to Gothenburg Hop on a sightseeing Paddan boat cruise and drift through the canals or rent a bike and head off on a self-guided cycling tour (no hills!). There are world-class amusement parks, including the famed Liseberg, and lots of fascinating museums, including the World of Volvo. Saluhallen food market is a great place for an early dinner. Day 11, Gothenburg Day 12, Gothenburg departure
Time to explore this idyllic archipelago by bike. Take the ferry to the car-free islands of Koster, a collection of picturesque fishing villages, natural landscapes, and Sweden’s sunniest region! On arrival at Ekenäs harbour, we strongly recommend visiting the Naturum Visitor Centre at the entrance to the Marine National Park, where you can learn about the area from park rangers. Kids will enjoy the hands on talks about the sea life that live in these waters and can touch the starfish and other creatures.
Drive inland towards the Dalsland area. Along the way, stop off for the chance of first-hand contact with the king of the forest – the moose. Offering a slow-paced, back-to-nature escape, Dalsland packs dense forests, lakes (over 1,000!) and rugged hills into a small area. Ideal for outdoorsy families, you have a great choice of water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, boat trips and fishing, as well as wonderful hiking.
Dalsland is known as ‘Sweden in miniature’ and renowned for its variety of flora, fauna and geology – nature at its best. You might choose to pack a picnic and head off into the lush green forests following one of the many well-signed hiking trails, or spend the day exploring the canals. There are some lovely walks around the lake in Haverud, and the visitor information centre has trail maps available. There are also lots of local operators who rent canoes or kayaks should you wish to spend time on one of the many lakes today.
Known locally as ‘Half the Canal’ this is a relaxing day out, taking a boat ride along the canal for around 3 hours from Haverud to Langbron, passing through 11 locks as well as the famous Haverud aqueduct. Lunch is included on board so you can just sit back and take in the gorgeous views. Return via a scenic rail bus, and enjoy an evening at leisure.
Time to head south to Gothenburg. Highly recommended en route is a stop at Musselbaren Lyckorna – but only if you like mussels. Here, you can not only gorge yourself on the delicious local delicacy, but it is also possible to head out on a mussel expedition where you can harvest your own meal. Continue to Gothenburg where the rest of the day is free to enjoy this beautiful city.
Further time to enjoy this family-friendly city. Explore the charming neighbourhood of Haga, with its well-preserved wooden houses, packed with cafés and shops. How about Scandinavia’s longest and fastest rollercoaster, Helix, or the attraction Mechanica – spinning 360 degrees 30 metres up in the air? Or for those keen to continue the outdoors theme, there are the Botanical Gardens and Slottsskogen, one of Sweden’s oldest city parks.
Say farewell to Sweden today and make your way to the airport for your flight home.
Sweden in pictures
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