Bohuslän Coast by Campervan: Best Stops on Sweden’s West Coast

The Bohuslän coast was one of the most beautiful parts of our Sweden road trip. After days spent driving through forests, lakes and quieter inland landscapes, arriving on the west coast felt completely different. The scenery became more open, with rocky shores, colourful fishing villages and wide views across the sea.

Travelling along the Bohuslän coast by campervan allowed us to explore slowly and stop whenever a place caught our attention. The distances between villages are relatively short, but each stop has its own atmosphere. From lively Smögen to peaceful coastal roads, historic rock carvings and small harbour towns, this part of Sweden offers a wonderful mix of nature, culture and seaside charm.

In this guide, we share the best stops on our Bohuslän coast road trip, along with practical tips for visiting the region by campervan.

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Looking for a campervan rental for your trip? If you don’t have your own van, platforms like CamperDays and Goboony can help you compare campervan rental options for your destination and travel dates. CamperDays is useful for comparing professional rental companies, while Goboony offers many privately owned campervans and motorhomes. We recommend checking availability early, especially for school holidays and summer road trips, as family-friendly campervans can book out quickly.

Bohuslän Coast Road Trip – Quick Overview

The Bohuslän coast is one of the most scenic regions in Sweden and a wonderful area to explore by campervan. Located on the west coast, it is known for its rocky islands, fishing villages, colourful wooden houses and open sea views.

The region is perfect for a slow itinerary because many of the most beautiful places are located close to each other. Instead of rushing, you can spend your days walking through coastal villages, stopping at viewpoints, kayaking, swimming or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere by the water.

For families, the Bohuslän coast is also a very enjoyable destination. Driving distances are manageable, many activities are outdoors and the region offers plenty of simple moments by the sea.

Map of Our Bohuslän Coast Road Trip

To help visualise the route, the map below shows the main stops along our Bohuslän coast road trip. From Strömstad and the rock carvings near Tanum to Grebbestad, Fjällbacka, Smögen and Marstrand, the route follows some of the most scenic parts of Sweden’s west coast.

Seeing the stops on a map also makes it easier to plan realistic driving days. The distances are not too long, which gives you more time for walks, viewpoints, coastal villages and relaxed moments by the water.

Best Stops on the Bohuslän Coast

Gothenburg – Gateway to Sweden’s stunning Bohuslän coast

Gothenburg is the gateway to Sweden’s stunning Bohuslän coast. As you embark on your campervan road trip adventure, consider starting your journey in this vibrant city.

Stroll along the picturesque streets and soak in the city’s artistic and cultural vibrancy. Gothenburg’s maritime heritage is ever-present, with its historic harbour serving as a hub of activity.

Also discover attractions like Liseberg Amusement Park or venture to Universeum, a science center that captivates visitors of all ages. From the city’s maritime museum to its botanical gardens, Gothenburg offers a perfect blend of urban exploration and coastal anticipation, setting the stage for the breathtaking Bohuslän coast that lies ahead.

Marstrand – Where Coastal Beauty Meets Historic Charms

Only 45 kilomeers from Gothenburg, the picturesque island of Marstrand is famous for its majestic Marstrand Fortress. This imposing structure, perched atop a hill, offers a glimpse into the island’s maritime history and defensive importance.

Beyond the fortress walls, Marstrand’s cobblestone streets wind through the heart of the island, revealing a tapestry of maritime heritage and captivating architecture. The streets are lined with charming buildings that reflect the island’s legacy.

Don’t miss the beautiful hiking trails at the back of the island which offers a breathtaking view on the surrounding sea.

Despite its popularity, Marstrand island, is a breathtaking testament to coastal beauty, which is best seen from the see.

When traveling with a campervan, the best way to visit Marstrand is to park at the paid motorhome area juston the other side, next to the sea and then take the ferry to the island.

Smögen– Instagram-Worthy Beauty

Our next stop was Smögen, celebrated for its Instagram-worthy allure. Yet, due to this success, finding suitable parking for our camper proved a challenge, affording us only a brief 5-minute glimpse of its splendor. The iconic Swedish houses lining the waterfront, each adorned with unique colors and styles, create a truly picturesque setting.

Kungshamn – Coastal Bliss with Rich Maritime Culture

Kungshamn is a coastal haven that offers a unique blend of stunning natural landscapes and vibrant local culture. Its proximity to the sea has shaped the town’s identity, as fishing and maritime activities have been integral to its history and economy for centuries.

The small fishermen’s harbor is famous for its dozens of iconic Swedish red cabins and paints a picture of traditional maritime life.

Kungshamn is where we spent the night at a beautiful spot just next to the harbour. What an amazing scenery for a campervan trip at the Bohuslän coast.

Fjällbacka – Where Rugged Beauty Meets Coastal Charm

As you journey further, discover Fjällbacka with its backdrop of rugged cliffs. You can follow a trail up the rocks in order to enjoy the view. We would recommend to avoid visiting on week-ends during the summer months because the place quickly gets crowded.

Grebbestad – Nature’s Marvel in Coastal Beauty

Also discover yet another coastal treasure. With its stunning natural landscapes Grebbestad invites you to stroll its picturesque harbour. The interplay of fishing boats and pleasure craft creates a captivating scene, while the surrounding archipelago bestows awe-inspiring vistas upon you.

Tanum Rock carvings – A Journey Through Time

One of the area’s absolute highlights is the Tanum Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage site that transports you to the Bronze Age, around 1800 to 500 BCE. While these intricate petroglyphs were once at sea level, you’ll now venture uphill to witness the fascinating Tanum symbols etched into the landscape.

With 600 panels spread across 51 hectares, you’ll uncover a few of these mysterious carvings. Among them, the Vitlycke flat rock stands out, adorned with depictions of boats, animals, and warriors. To enhance visibility for tourists, many of the carvings have been painted red, giving them a distinct artistic flair.

For more information on the history of the carvings, don’t miss the The Vitlycke museum.

When travelling with a campervan, it is possible to spend the night on the museum’s parking lot. This allowed us to visit the rocks in the evening, when the other tourists where long gone.

Strömstad – Coastal Charms and Island Adventures

Only a few kilometers from the Norwegian border, Strömstad is quite a fancy harbor town where many happy boat owners stop for the night. Originally, Strömstad belonged to Norway and it only became Swedish in 1658. Nowadays, many Norwegians and Swedish tourists come to Strömland for the holiday season as it is one of the sunniest town in Northern Europe.

Take a leisurely stroll along its harbor, discover the vibrant city center with its colorful houses, or unwind at one of the elegant bars.

Beyond its coastal allure, Strömstad is the launching point for boats to the Koster islands, whisking you away on an island escapade every 30 minutes during the summer.

Lakelife – A quiet retreat

Sweden is the country of a thousand lakes and even at the Bohuslän coast, idyllic lakes are never toofar away.

In order to get a break from the busy coast, choose one of the spots at a lake, go swimming, use your paddle or kayak or just relax for relax for a day or two.

Travelling the Bohuslän Coast with Family

The Bohuslän coast is a very enjoyable region for a family campervan trip. Distances between stops are short, which means you do not need long driving days, and many activities are outdoors and flexible.

Children can explore harbour villages, walk along the coast, climb to viewpoints, swim in summer or enjoy simple moments by the water. This makes the region easy to adapt depending on the weather, energy levels and how much time you want to spend outside.

What makes the Bohuslän coast especially pleasant with family is the relaxed rhythm. You can choose one or two stops per day and still feel like you have experienced something different. Some days can be focused on villages and sightseeing, while others can be slower, with kayaking, picnics or time by the sea.

Where to Stay with a Campervan on the Bohuslän Coast

There are several options for staying overnight with a campervan along the Bohuslän coast. Campsites are useful if you want more comfort, especially when travelling with children or when you need showers, electricity or laundry facilities.

Around popular coastal towns, it can be helpful to check availability in advance during the summer months. The coast is a popular holiday region, and some places can become busy in high season.

Best Time to Visit the Bohuslän Coast

The best time to visit the Bohuslän coast is from late spring to early autumn. Summer offers the warmest weather and the best conditions for swimming, kayaking and spending time outdoors. It is also when the coastal villages feel most lively.

However, summer is also the busiest season, especially in popular places such as Smögen and Marstrand. If you prefer a quieter experience, late spring or early autumn can be a very good choice.

The weather may be cooler outside peak summer, but the atmosphere is more peaceful and the coastal landscapes are still beautiful. For a campervan trip, this can make the journey feel more relaxed.

FAQ – Bohuslän Coast Road Trip

Is the Bohuslän coast worth visiting?

Yes, the Bohuslän coast is one of the most beautiful coastal regions in Sweden. It offers rocky landscapes, fishing villages, islands, sea views and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.

Can you visit the Bohuslän coast by campervan?

Yes, the Bohuslän coast works very well for a campervan road trip. Distances between towns are relatively short, and the region offers campsites and campervan stops, although planning ahead is useful in summer.

What are the best stops on the Bohuslän coast?

Some of the best stops include Strömstad, Grebbestad, Fjällbacka, Kungshamn, Smögen and Marstrand. The Tanum rock carvings are also worth visiting for a historical stop.

Is the Bohuslän coast good for families?

Yes, the Bohuslän coast is a great region for families. The short distances, outdoor activities, coastal walks, swimming spots and relaxed villages make it easy to travel with children.

When is the best time to visit the Bohuslän coast?

Late spring to early autumn is the best time to visit. Summer is warm and lively, while late spring and early autumn are quieter and more relaxed.

How many days do you need for the Bohuslän coast?

You can visit a few highlights in two or three days, but four to five days allow you to travel more slowly and enjoy the coast without rushing.

Conclusion

A Bohuslän coast road trip is one of the most scenic ways to experience Sweden’s west coast. With rocky islands, colourful fishing villages, sea views and peaceful coastal roads, the region offers a very different atmosphere from the forests and lakes inland.

Travelling by campervan makes the journey especially enjoyable because you can explore slowly and adapt the route as you go. From Strömstad and the Tanum rock carvings to Fjällbacka, Smögen and Marstrand, each stop adds something different to the trip.

For anyone planning a Sweden road trip, the Bohuslän coast is a beautiful region to include, especially if you enjoy coastal landscapes, small villages and slow travel by the sea.

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