I’m a huge fan of all things Scandinavian. I love its eye for design, gorgeous scenery, elegant vibe, and its vast amounts of clear, unpolluted air! I also love its unique outlook on life, and wherever I travel to the region, I always fall utterly in love with the country I’m exploring.
I headed off to one of the prettiest regions of Sweden: the unspoilt West Coast Islands. This mesmerizing tapestry of rugged coastline, picturesque islands, and charming fishing villages was bathed in the soft glow of the Nordic sun.
Stretching from Gothenburg in the south to the border with Norway in the north, this enchanting region is actually known as one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Sweden, I found it was a haven for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a zen-like experience far away from city hassles!
I discovered at the heart of the West Coast lies the beautiful Bohuslän archipelago, which consists of over 8,000 islands, islets, and skerries scattered across the glistening waters of the Kattegat Sea.
I loved that each island boasted its own unique character and charm, from the quaint fishing hamlets of Smögen and Fjällbacka to the secluded wilderness of South Koster and the windswept cliffs of Marstrand.
I flew into Gothenburg, and then a trusty hire car took me to the rugged beauty of the West Coast islands. From there, I went to explore two of the most loved (and popular) islands: South Koster and Smögen.
South Koster Island
My first stop was South Koster, a tranquil oasis known for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and abundant wildlife. As I hopped on a ferry and walked across the shimmering waters of the Skagerrak Strait, I stood and took in my wonderful new and very tranquil surroundings; it felt about as far away from city hassles as possible.
I was greeted by the sight of colourful fishing cottages nestled along the shoreline and towering cliffs that rose majestically from the sea. I spent the day hiking and cycling through the thick green forests, pausing to admire panoramic views of the surrounding archipelago and dipping my toes in the crystal-clear waters of hidden coves. It was blissful!
As one of the two inhabited islands comprising the Koster archipelago, I discovered that South Koster was home to a beautiful blend of rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, making it a haven for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
I found that its raw car-traffic-free natural beauty included sweeping vistas of windswept cliffs, dense forests, meandering coastal trails, and a rugged coastline dotted with hidden coves and secluded bays. It offered endless opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting.
I wandered along deserted beaches, explored winding forest trails and just sat on the craggy coastal rocks, soaking up the soothing lull of waves breaking on the shore as the moody and atmospheric sunset.
Smögen
Next up I visited the busier West Coast island of Smögen, a bustling fishing town which was renowned for its picturesque harbour where colourful fishing boats bob in the sea and also for its vibrant atmosphere.
I found this gorgeous gem – which has become a popular vacation island for Swedes when holidaying – was full of maritime charm and possessed a stunning coastline dotted with colourful wooden fishing huts, bustling harbour, independent boutique stores, excellent seafood restaurants, and buzzy vacation-friendly atmosphere!
At the heart of Smögen I found its iconic boardwalk, a bustling thoroughfare lined with quaint shops, cosy cafes, and busy restaurants serving up the day’s fresh catch.
This was my favourite part of the island. Here I wandered leisurely, browsing artisanal boutiques for locally crafted souvenirs, sampling traditional Swedish delicacies, and simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
I explored further into its craggy corners and I found colourful fishing huts (which my Instagram followers loved!) weathered boathouses, net-draped docks and traditional wooden vessels gently bobbing in the sea.
As the sun began to set, I climbed to the top of Smögen Bridge, where I was treated to a breathtaking view of the village bathed in golden light.
After breathing in as much fresh salty sea air as I could, it was time to return to the mainland, but (as I always do when I visit Scandinavia!) I left leaving a tiny piece of my heart there! I found this was a seriously stunning part of Sweden!
