Bovallstrand brings together swimming spots, distinctive local architecture and opportunities to explore Bottnafjorden and the archipelago. When planning a stay, you can choose between swimming, architectural history and walks in the surrounding area.
Swimming and Paddling
Badholmarna in Bottnafjorden near Bovallstrand offers small, child-friendly sandy beaches, rocks, trampolines, diving towers, bathing jetties, bathing ladders and a swimming lane. So, alongside sandy beaches and swimming, the rocks and other bathing facilities are also a focus. Facilities may change seasonally; check in advance which amenities matter for your travel dates.
Kayaks can be rented at Bovallskajak, north of the village, to explore Bottnafjorden and the Bovallstrand archipelago. This offers a different focus from a visit to Badholmarna: here, the emphasis is on exploring by kayak, while there it is on the swimming spots and facilities mentioned above. Rental details may change; check them before planning your trip.
Church, Wooden Details and Stoneworking History
Bovallstrand Church is distinguished by its beautiful architecture, interesting altarpieces and unique pipe organ. Construction began in 1916; the new church was inaugurated in August 1917. Bovallstrand also has many authentic buildings from the early 20th century with distinctive wooden details. The church and the other buildings offer different ways to explore the village’s architecture.
Worked stone is another defining feature: Bovallstrand was once known for its stonemasons. Terrace walls, steps, gateposts and veranda columns made of dressed stone reflect this former significance. Together with the preserved wooden details, they offer a multifaceted view of the village’s built history.
Woodland, Hiking Trail and Cycling Options
The Anneröd-Hogsäm Nature Reserve, a large, continuous broadleaf woodland, lies near Bovallstrand. Oak dominates the mountain slopes, while beech grows in the valleys. A section of the Soteleden trail runs through the reserve. Visitors interested in nature and trails will find a different focus here than at the swimming spots or among the village’s architecture.
The cycling routes also offer different options: the #NA3 Leisure cycle route runs from Åbyfjorden and Nordens Ark to Bovallstrand. On the #NA1 MTB route, there are opportunities to swim and take coffee breaks at the “Halfway Turnaround” in Bovallstrand. The first description refers to a route connection to Bovallstrand; the second describes specific break options at a point on the MTB route. Check route conditions before setting out, as they may change.
Church Services and Christmas Market
Every other service in Bovallstrand is celebrated in a style inspired by the ecumenical Taizé Community. It includes simple, meditative songs, Bible readings, prayers, many candles and a time of silence. If you would like to include such a service in your trip, check in advance whether the date works for you; the service schedule may change.
Bovallstrand’s traditional Christmas market features lotteries, food and numerous handicrafts. If the market is a reason for your trip, check the dates and whether it is going ahead before planning your stay around it.
Discover more destinations: Gerlesborg, Kungshamn, Bohus-Malmön, Hovenäset, Smögen, Hunnebostrand.
Return to the main travel overview: Sotenäs.
