Several bathing beaches lie among the rocky outcrops of Bua hed, and from the heights you can see far across the fjord landscape. The coastal heath is one of the best-preserved in Bohuslän. The landscape, geology and experiences by the water give Sotenäs many different facets to discover as you explore.
Rocky landscapes and coastal heaths
Ramsvikslandet combines extensive rocky areas with heathland, wet heath, meadows and deciduous woodland. Its Ice Age features also shape the character of the area: roche moutonnées, glacial potholes, glacial striations and glacial grooves make its geological history clearly visible. Ramsvikslandet is easy to access and explore on foot. Swimming spots include Haby Bay and Tryggö. Access and facilities in the nature reserve may vary seasonally; check current conditions before your visit.
At Bua hed, open coastal heath meets the beach: several lovely beaches lie between rocky outcrops, while the heights offer wide views across the fjord landscape. You can take in the scenery both by the water and from above, with each viewpoint offering a different impression.
Island views and time by the water
Hållö is a pink-hued granite island, ten minutes by boat from Smögen. At Marmorbassängen, smooth rock ledges and a bathing ladder lead down to clear, turquoise water. The island’s waterfront nature and historic lighthouse offer different attractions: Hållö Lighthouse and the lighthouse keeper’s house are open daily in summer, from Midsummer until mid-August. On-site, you can join guided tours and see exhibitions and information about Hållö, its history, geology, flora and fauna. If you plan to visit the lighthouse, check opening days in advance.
Explore on foot, by bike and on a discovery tour
Sotenäs has coastal walks along lovely paths through varied natural landscapes. A hiking route runs through the entire municipality, from Bovallstrand in the north to Kungshamn and Smögen in the south. For cycling, MTB route #H4 offers a different focus: it connects Hunnebostrand and Bovallstrand via challenging trails and small roads, passing salty swimming spots. The route is 28 km long, has 456 metres of elevation gain and is considered moderately difficult to difficult. Route conditions and access may change; check the latest information before setting out.
Nordens Ark, an animal park with around 60 animal species, is located by the Åbyfjord. They include Amur tigers, red pandas, turtles and Nordic landraces. The full circuit is a useful guide for planning your visit: it is about 4.5 km long and usually takes around three hours if you want to visit all the animals and areas. This can help you decide whether to make the park a longer standalone stop on your trip.
History and local experiences
At Gammelgården, you can wander among historic buildings from the 18th century and discover objects from the past. The building that now houses the museum was erected here in 1739. Gammelgården is also home to one of Sweden’s oldest surviving boathouses, built partly from driftwood from shipwrecks. The buildings and boathouse offer different ways to explore history: through the museum site itself, and through a structure made from unusual materials.
Cruises with M/S Soten have been a Swedish west coast classic since 1935. The trips feature a West Swedish buffet and entertaining guided commentary with facts, stories and anecdotes. Cruises are seasonal and operated by the company; check in advance which dates are available. For a different way to experience a craft, visit the café at Hamnbageriet in Kungshamn, where you can watch the baking. Baking classes are also offered occasionally; ask about dates if you would like to take part.
For easy travel guidance, you can contact Sotenäs Tourist Information by email and phone all year round. At the InfoPoints, you can find the visitor magazine Smögen&, maps, local information and help with simple questions.
Discover more destinations: Bovallstrand, Hovenäset, Hunnebostrand, Kungshamn, Smögen, Bohus-Malmön, Kungälv, Hjo.
Back to the main travel overview: Västra Götaland.
