THE BOHUSLEDEN – A HIKING TRAIL FROM LINDOME TO STRÖMSTAD

There’s tons to see and experience along the Bohusleden, everything from impressive waterfalls and panoramic views to beautiful castles and mighty fortresses. But most of all it’s the stunning natural surroundings that attract hikers.

The southern part of the trail, around Gothenburg and Kungälv, is easier to reach on public transport. It’s also more suitable for less experienced walkers and day trips. There’s plenty of accommodation and places to eat around here. Further north the trail is harder to get to if you’re not travelling by car. The terrain here is tougher which also makes the rewards greater. This area is perfect for anyone wanting wilder hikes up forested hills with magnificent views.

The Bohusleden is truly one of Southern Sweden’s most beautiful hiking trails and a real adventure for nature lovers!

11 places worth seeing along the Bohusleden

1. Älgafallet

Bohuslän’s highest waterfall is an impressive sight, with a 46 meter drop. It’s most spectacular in spring or autumn, when rainfall has been plentiful, and is easily accessible along paths and bridges from the car park.  Älgafallet is on the border with Norway, along stage 23 of the Bohusleden.

2. Blacktjärn

You might have heard of Black Tarn….or maybe not. This legendary forest lake is said to be guarded by seven invisible beings. The story goes that if you stand on the shore and call across the lake you’ll be answered immediately. There’s also a myth about a water sprite in the lake, a so called nixie, said to be protecting a great treasure down in the depths. If your curiosity has been piqued about Blacktjärn then you should hike stage 3 of the Bohusleden.

3. Jonsered Gardens

There are very many beautiful gardens to visit in and around Gothenburg, including the one by the former company town of Jonsered. The garden consists of four planting areas with different themes, and is free to visit. There is also a lovely café in the gorunds. Jonsered Gardens can be found on stage 5 of the Bohusleden.

4. Gunnebo House

Gunnebo House & Gardens has everything required of a castle. In the grounds everything is symmetrical and the gardeners keep the trees neat and tidy. Two stone staircases lead up to the magnificent castle building, the interior of which still has many original late 18^th century period details remaining. And the restaurant serves lunches and fikas that add a touch of luxury to everyday life. The only things missing are the towers and battlements but who needs them?  If you want to visit beautiful Gunnebo House, stage 2 of the Bohusleden is the one to head to.

5. Getryggen

It’s said that the best things in life are the ones that you have to work hard to get, and experiencing Getrygget is no exception. The hike up this hill is a pulse raiser, but talk about the effort being worth it. On a clear day you can see all the way to the Port of Gothenburg and the shimmering sea in the distance. Perfect for an Instagram moment! Getryggen lies just west of the Skatås activity centre on the outskirts of Gothenburg, along Stage 3 of the Bohusleden.

6. Bohus Fortress

Even if the Bohusleden is mostly about nature experiences it passes several historic places, not least the Bohus Fortress. Established in the 1300s, the fortress is a truly monumental work, so spectacular that it has been chosen as one of West Sweden’s seven wonders. Explore the fortress by yourself or with a guide. You’ll see it from a good distance away as it towers over the Göta älv river when you hike stage 6.

7. Svartedalen

Svartedalen's wilderness area is associated with extensive coniferous forests, lakes and a rich flora and fauna. Well-marked paths take you through atmospheric woodland dotted with old crofts and croft remains. The area is a popular haunt for hikers, anglers, mushroom pickers and orienteers, with several shelters for wild camping on the trail. The Bohusleden passes through Svartedalen in a north-south direction along stages 8 and 9.

8. The cave in Rogstad

The huge cave in Rogstad outside Strömstad is an incredible sight. You’ll pass the cave on the way up to the Rogstads Hillern viewpoint, which is also worth a stop. From here you can see Strömstad’s  archipelago. The cave is on stage 27 of the Bohusleden.

9. Vättlefjäll

The Vättlefjäll Nature Reserve is one of the largest natural areas around Gothenburg, and is a popular spot for anyone who loves hiking, swimming, canoeing, fishing, or picking berries and mushrooms. The area is abundant in lakes, wetlands and heaths. As well as stage 6 of the Bohusleden the Pilgrim Path Göta Älv and the Vättlefjäll Trail also pass through the reserve.  

10. The history of stonemasonry

The area around Krokstrand near Strömstad is steeped in traces of the stonemasonry period in Bohuslän. Krokstrand was one of the main centres for this craft, and the durable Bohus granite was shipped all over the world, including as cobblestones to Rio de Janeiro. You can immerse yourself in the history of stonemasonry on stages 25 and 26 of the Bohusleden.

11. Björnerödspiggen

222 metres over sea level, and so high that you have reached the highest point in Bohuslän – Björnerödspiggen. On a clear day you can see far beyond the Norwegian border from the lookout tower. On the summit there’s also a shelter with a fire pit. Björnerödspiggen is found on stage 26 and from there you can choose to hike further along the Kuststigen to the Svinesund bridge and Norway.

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