Swedens Dreamy Archipelago
Category
Active
Travel period
Summer
Trip type
FIT
Duration
9 Days / 8 Days
Discover Sweden’s stunning West Coast on this 9-day self-drive tour. Travel from vibrant Göteborg through coastal villages, scenic lakes, and rugged archipelagos. Highlights include a guided kayak tour in Grebbestad, a visit to Carlstens Fortress in Marstrand, and a night on the remote island of Pater Noster. With stops in Smögen, Fjällbacka, Åmål, and more, this tour blends culture, nature, and local charm for an unforgettable coastal escape.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Göteborg
Arrive in Göteborg according to individual travel plans. Spend the afternoon strolling along Avenyn, the city’s main boulevard lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants. In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of the city’s renowned seafood restaurants.
Day 2: Smögen
After breakfast, drive north to the coastal town of Smögen. Along the way, consider a visit to the open-air Sculpture Park in Pilane, where contemporary art is displayed in a beautiful natural setting. In Smögen, walk along the famous wooden pier and enjoy the vibrant harbour atmosphere.
Day 3: Fjällbacka & Grebbestad
Continue along the coast, stopping in Fjällbacka for a hike up Vetteberget with panoramic views, and a walk through Kungsklyfta Gorge, featured in Ronja the Robber’s Daughter. Then head to Grebbestad to enjoy its charming fishing village atmosphere and sample fresh local seafood.
Day 4: Åmål by Vänern Lake
Start the day with a 3-hour guided kayak tour through the Grebbestad archipelago. Afterwards, drive inland to the lakeside town of Åmål. On the way, stop at the Dalsland Moose Ranch for a close-up view of these majestic animals.
Day 5: Explore Åmål
Spend the day enjoying the peaceful surroundings of Lake Vänern. Activities may include swimming, cycling, or a boat ride on the lake. Take time to explore Åmål’s old town, with its historic wooden buildings.
Day 6: Trollhättan
Drive to Trollhättan. Optional experiences include a canal boat tour along the Dalsland Canal or a visit to the Göta Canal locks. Alternatively, visit the Vänersborg Museum to learn more about the local history and culture.
Day 7: Marstrand & Pater Noster
Continue to the island town of Marstrand and visit Carlstens Fästning, a well-preserved fortress with panoramic views. In the afternoon, transfer by boat to Pater Noster, a unique island retreat offering a peaceful and exclusive overnight stay.
Day 8: Return to Göteborg
Return to the mainland and drive back to Göteborg. Spend your final day revisiting favourite sights or discovering something new, such as Slottsskogen Park. Enjoy one last dinner in the city.
Day 9: Departure
After breakfast, depart according to individual travel plans.
Tour Details
Accommodation
8 nights in 3-star (or higher) accommodation with breakfast
1 dinner in Smögen
Excursions & activities
3-hour guided kayak tour in the Grebbestad archipelago
Transport & Transfers
Boat transfer and overnight stay at Pater Noster
Local tip
In Fjällbacka, visit the small bakery Fjällbacka Bageri early in the morning for freshly baked cinnamon buns (kanelbullar) and enjoy them on the harbourfront. It’s a favourite spot for locals, especially before the hiking trail up Vetteberget. If you're interested in literature, keep an eye out for sites mentioned in the Camilla Läckberg crime novels—she grew up here, and her books are set in this very village.
