Fiskebäckskil
Skaftö
Come and explore the beautiful village of Fiskebäckskil on Sweden’s west coast. Stroll along the small streets and enjoy the feeling of the archipelago. You may be looking for a historical experience or activities centred on the sea – Fiskebäckskil has lots to offer on many levels, both summer and winter.
Walk among the boathouses and the captains’ villas
Fiskebäckskil is located on the island of Skaftö, on the south side of the Gullmarsfjorden estuary in Bohuslän. Down on the waterline there are small boathouses whose openings face the sea, while further up the hillside there are grander houses with glass verandas and splendid balconies with gingerbread woodwork. Between the two extremes of the captains’ impressive villas and the more prosaic boathouses, there are many fine paths to wander along. High up on the hillside you can also see the most famous profile of the town, the summer residence and studio of the late artist Carl Wilhelmson.
Photographer: Regina Cederfeldt
Swimming off the warm rocks
Right across the water from Fiskebäckskil is the town of Lysekil, easy to access by passenger ferry. On warm summer days the shallow beach in Bökevik is a popular spot for swimming and cooling off, feeling the soft sand between your toes and relaxing on the smooth, sun-warmed rocks. There are great footpaths and cycle paths between Östersidan to Fiskebäckskil, and from there towards Stockevik and Grundsund.
Relaxation for body and soul
Fiskebäckskil is the perfect place to regain your energy and balance. Gullmarstrand Hotell & Konferens lies close to the steamboat landing stage. It offers you comforts for body and soul, a soothing seaside resort with peace and quiet. The nearby marina, Lyckans Slip, is further upstream and is considered to be one of the best on the west coast.
Photographer: Regina Cederfeldt
Look out over all the moored pleasure boats and still your hunger at Brygghuset, the well-reputed restaurant there. Slipens Hotell & Pensionat is almost next door, where each of the rooms has been inspired by famous people from Skaftö. T/S Kvartsita is a schooner and a training ship with its home port at Kyrkekajen, just around the corner.
Rich History
You’ll soon discover many aspects of Fiskebäckskil’s history as you walk along Kaptensgatan and explore the many picturesque paths and steps. This fishing port was founded in the 16th century, based on the lucrative herring trade, and later developed into one of Sweden's finest marine towns. When cargo transport on sailing ships lulled and floundered at the end of the nineteenth century, Fiskebäckskil became a popular seaside resort with a bustling high society. These days the town is famous as a picturesque summer paradise, complete with a relaxing archipelago atmosphere.