Discover Sweden's west coast | Eurobike Cycling Blog

Brief information about the tour

Throughout your eight-day cycling tour, with six days spent in the saddle from Helsingborg through Varberg to Gothenburg, the aroma of the sea and the allure of white sandy beaches will accompany you daily. As you journey through the provinces of Skåne, Halland, and Västra Götaland, you'll acquaint yourself with the varied natural landscapes of western Sweden. To the south, expansive white sandy beaches define the coastline, while heading northward reveals untamed vegetation and a more tempestuous sea.

The well signposted cycle tour predominantly follows quiet secondary roads, dedicated cycle paths, and gravel trails. Only brief segments of the route may encounter higher traffic volumes. Expect mostly flat to gently undulating terrain throughout the journey.

Experience nature and culture in western Sweden

Your 8-day cycling adventure begins in Helsingborg. Situated on the Öresund, Sweden's ninth-largest city is renowned as the gateway to Sweden. Anyone venturing to explore southern Sweden is likely to pass through Helsingborg at some point. Beyond its picturesque landscape featuring white sandy beaches, the city boasts numerous attractions, showcasing over a millennium of history and tradition. Since its initial mention in 1070, Helsingborg has evolved into a pivotal center for innovation in Europe.

The city's rich history can be explored in its many museums, the old town center, or at Sofiero Palace, renowned as one of Sweden's most exquisite. Constructed in 1864 in the Dutch Renaissance style, it has historically served as a summer retreat for royalty. Additionally, the palace is famous for its stunning landscaped parks and vibrant rhododendron gardens. Notably, the park commissioned by King Gustav VI Adolf earned the title of the most beautiful park in Europe in 2010.

On the second day, your destination is Ängelholm. Surrounding the town are the characteristic white sandy beaches, interspersed with small nature reserves. A particular highlight are the spectacular sunsets when the evening light blankets the landscape in a gentle glow.

Apelöga

A paradise for sports enthusiasts on land and water

The highlight of the third day of your journey undoubtedly lies in Halmstad. This city charms visitors with its picturesque city center adorned with numerous bars, restaurants, parks, and captivating architecture. Adding to its allure are the many stunning beaches it boasts. Among them, Tylösand stands out as one of Sweden's most beautiful long sandy beaches, renowned across the country.

Before reaching Halmstad, you'll journey through Båstad, among other places. Throughout most of the year, the town maintains a tranquil ambiance. However, everything changes during the tennis week in mid-July. During this time, Båstad transforms into a hub for the tennis elite, drawing tens of thousands of visitors annually.

Outside of the Swedish Open, Båstad serves as a delightful seaside resort, boasting charming cafés and ample opportunities for sailing and leisure activities, ensuring a good time for all.

Falkenberg, your destination on the fourth day, captivates visitors with a blend of Swedish tranquility, a vibrant culinary scene, and breathtaking natural beauty. A visit to this picturesque town wouldn't be complete without seeing the old toll bridge, celebrated as one of Sweden's most beautiful stone bridges and Falkenberg's iconic landmark. The old town delights with its colorful wooden and half-timbered houses, as well as its narrow cobblestone streets.

toll bridge in the old town of Falkenberg

Caroline Andersson

Between sandy beach and archipelago

On the fifth day, the journey from Falkenberg to Varberg awaits. This leg of the tour offers a rich tapestry of experiences, with Varberg and its surroundings presenting a captivating diversity. The town is renowned for its 13th-century fortress and "The Bocksten Man" or Bockstensmann in Swedish, a remarkably well-preserved bog body from the 14th century. For those intrigued by the eerie and mysterious, a visit to the Halland Museum of Culural History comes highly recommended.

The town's harbor is bustling, boasting a children's beach and the incredibly charming Kaltbadehaus. Those in the mood for romantic strolls are recommended to take a walk along the promenade towards Apelviken. On the way, you will pass the "Kärleksparken", or "Lovers Park", and experience a magnificent view of the coast, the old sanatorium, now a hotel, and the Subbe fyr lighthouse. If you are out and about in the evening, you will also be rewarded with a breathtaking sunset.

The following day, you depart from Varberg heading towards Kungsbacka. Here, the landscape undergoes a transformation. While the sandy beaches diminish in size and number, the terrain becomes rockier. The first islands start to emerge in the sea, setting the stage for the remainder of your journey.

The quaint town of Kungsbacka lies approximately 25 kilometers south of Gothenburg and serves as the destination for the sixth day of the tour. Maintaining its village charm, it stands as a stark contrast to the hip and trendy atmosphere of Gothenburg. Abundant parks and green spaces contribute to the town's livability and charm. For instance, ascending the 179 steps to reach the summit of Tölöberg rewards you with a breathtaking view overlooking the city.

kallbadhus at Varberg with bicycles at the foreground

Jessica Claren

Gothenburg - The compact city for explorers

Your adventure concludes in Gothenburg, Sweden's second-largest city, after several delightful days. This harbor city allures visitors with its laid-back atmosphere and plethora of attractions, including its picturesque canals, the historic Haga district brimming with cozy cafes and vintage shops, and the abundant green spaces like the botanical garden. One of the largest in Europe, the botanical garden boasts around 16,000 different plant species, adding to the city's charm and allure.

Gothenburg is renowned for its vibrant food scene, boasting some of the finest restaurants in the country.

Make sure not to overlook the captivating archipelago islands, easily accessible by boat and providing the perfect contrast to the bustling city. Each island possesses its own unique charm, yet all are connected by the stunning natural surroundings. The quaint red houses nestled amidst the untamed vegetation and breathtaking rock formations add vibrant splashes of color to the landscape.

Apeloga

Jessica Claren

old town of Falkenberg with the typical houses

Caroline Andersson

Halländische delicacies with grilled lemon

Joels Brygga

Culinary delights from southern Sweden

Alongside the numerous breathtaking coastal vistas of western Sweden, you'll find an abundance of culinary delights to savor.

Swedish cuisine extends far beyond the classic Köttbullar with mashed potatoes. One must experience "Fika," an integral aspect of Swedish lifestyle. This entails a coffee break accompanied by pastries, preferably enjoyed in the company of a loved one. Unlike in southern countries where coffee breaks are often brief and taken standing up, in Sweden, Fika is truly a celebration. People gather in cafes or pastry shops to socialize and engage in conversations. Traditionally, coffee paired with a cinnamon bun is served during Fika.

You'll encounter an abundance of fresh fish and seafood options on the menus throughout your journey.

Here's a tip: Indulge in the fresh crabs sourced directly from the sea in Träslövsläge.

traditional fika at Falkenberg at Stalboms confectionery

Marie Hidvi - Hidvi Group