Island Hopping on Sweden's Bohuslän Coast: The Ultimate Road Trip Guide
Sweden's Bohuslän coast in West Sweden is home to over 8,000 islands, each offering unique charm and stunning scenery. Our journey began with a few days in Gothenburg, followed by an unforgettable road trip along the Bohuslän coast in a brand-new Volvo. Volvo's innovative program allows Americans to buy a new Volvo directly from Sweden at significant savings, complete with two free round-trip tickets.
To spotlight this program, Volvo and Visit Sweden invited us on this road trip to showcase West Sweden's highlights. We toured the Volvo factory in Gothenburg and connected with American buyers, including a couple from San Francisco we met at the airport. Some travelers were even returning for their second Volvo purchase years later—a testament to the program's appeal. If you're car shopping, it's a compelling option backed by our firsthand experience.
We changed accommodations nightly over five days, maximizing our exploration of the Bohuslän coast. Our trip aligned with Midsummer, allowing us to immerse in this cherished Swedish tradition at Villa Sjötorp, complete with pickled herring. Whether buying a Volvo or not, this coastline rivals the world's most beautiful—highly recommended for any traveler.
Discover our detailed Bohuslän Coast road trip guide below!
Klädesholmen
Our first stop: the charming island of Klädesholmen, linked by bridge to larger Tjörn island. We checked into Salt & Sill—Sweden's pioneering floating hotel—with a cozy sea-view room on the ground floor.
A rainy afternoon prompted a relaxing session in the hotel's floating sauna, steps from our room. On a sunny day, we'd have rented kayaks to explore by water. Nearby guests braved the sea for invigorating swims followed by sauna warmth.
Stenungsund
Stenungsund island lies close to the mainland, separated by a narrow strait from the main town. We stayed at the elegant Stenungsbaden Yacht Club in a suite with panoramic views of the water and connecting bridge.
The third-floor spa boasts breathtaking vistas, complemented by the newly renovated Kookaburra restaurant waterfront. A floating sauna added to the luxury.
Marstrand
Car-free Marstrand connects to the mainland via a quick two-minute ferry. We based at Marstrand Havshotell on the mainland, with island views and easy ferry access.
Highlights include boutique shopping, Strandverket museum, Carlsten Fortress, and island hikes. Dine at top spots like Grand Hotel—reservations essential for their exceptional crayfish.
Tjörn
Tjörn, Sweden's sixth-largest island near Orust, offered a cultural highlight: an afternoon with Meet the Swedes. This initiative connects travelers with local hosts for authentic experiences.
Hosts Elisabeth and Bengt welcomed us to their multi-generational family farm and guesthouse, Turnips & Rooms, in Toftönäs. Options included boating, hiking, archery, or BBQ—we opted for a nature reserve walk to feed their sheep, amid cows, vibrant houses, and swans. Elisabeth shared family stories, rural life insights, and Midsummer history.
Bengt's traditional lunch featured pickled herring, Swedish sausage, homegrown potatoes, and fresh strawberries. This genuine encounter deepened our appreciation for Swedish culture and hospitality.
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