What’s so special about summer in the west of Sweden? For anyone who loves rocky islands, vast lakes, seafood, beaches and the sea, there’s plenty to explore
There are lots of reasons why you should plan a journey to the west of Sweden this summer. You'll discover pretty fishing villages, including Marstrand (a playground for royalty and celebrities), picturesque landscapes and an array of restaurants offering fresh-from-the-sea fish and shellfish.
Not sure where to begin? We’ve got some of the best new openings and most characterful places to stay in the region right here - including the country's first floating hotel.
Hällsnäs
Southeast of Gothenburg on Lake Långenäs, Hällsnäs is a 100-year-old mansion house hotel with an award-winning team in the kitchen and a new fine dining restaurant overlooking the lake, Restaurant Signum, that opened this year. Expect a tasting menu inspired by the four elements - earth, fire, air and water - and luxurious lakeside rooms.
From 1,228 SEK per night
Magasinet på Härön
Further up the coast in the archipelago, Magasinet på Härön is a six-room hotel run by an architect and a sommelier. Expect fresh fish and seafood in the restaurant, and cosy rooms with views of the sea, along with a hiking package to help you get the best of nature on this beautiful island. This summer they will open rooms in their former grain storehouse, so more people can enjoy this lovingly-crafted space.
From 2,395 SEK per night
Swedish Country Living
Selected as Sweden’s most sustainable food and travel destination last year, Swedish Country Living is an exercise in stylish off-grid living on the shore by Lake Vänern. The operation has three 'Hermitage' cabins, and this spring opened a new outdoor spa and outdoor kitchen. All food served in their Orangery Restaurant is produced on the farm; they even have their own sheep farm.
From 4,850 SEK for a two night all-inclusive package with food and activities
Strana
On the coast at Hälleviksstrand, Strana is a boutique hotel with 12 rooms that opened mid-pandemic in 2020, along with a selection of houses with a private jetty for larger groups. Relax on the deck with a glass of wine and views of the sea and sand, take up padel tennis for the summer, or book the floating sauna on the jetty for a mini ocean cruise. It’s a charming and chic spot.
From 2,365 SEK per night
Marstrands Kurhotell
No trip to the Bohuslän archipelago is complete without a visit to aristocratic Marstrand. At Marstrands Kurhotel you can experience a hotel fit for royalty. This 19th century building has been hosting VIPS since it was first constructed and is today a luxury hotel focused on wellness and relaxation, with beautifully-decorated rooms in a muted and elegant style.
From 2,450 SEK per night
Salt & Sill
Salt & Sill is a hotel with a difference. You couldn’t get closer to the sea if you tried - it’s Sweden’s first floating hotel, located at the end of a pier on Klädesholmen in the Tjörn archipelago. Fall asleep to the sound of waves, then wake up and climb down your private ladder for a morning swim in the sea. The hotel can arrange kayaking, wine tasting with a sommelier, jacuzzi boat tours and shellfish fishing, among other activities.
From 1,431 SEK per night