Attractions and Places To See around Strömstad - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Strömstad, a town on Sweden's west coast, offers a combination of natural beauty and historical landmarks. The area is characterized by its archipelago, including Sweden's only marine national park. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from coastal walks to ancient monuments. Strömstad provides opportunities to experience both natural environments and cultural heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Strömstad
- The most popular attractions is Elgåfossen Waterfall, a waterfall that is located on the Swedish-Norwegian border. Its watercourse on a tributary of the Enningdalsälven defines parts of the border between the two countries.
- Another must-see spot is Stenskeppet (The Stone Ship), a historical site. This ship setting consists of 49 slender stones and measures 42 meters in length, making it one of the largest of its kind, likely dating from the younger Iron Age.
- Visitors also love Strömstad City Hall, a man-made monument completed in 1917. The building is constructed in a grand Art Nouveau style and is known for its unique number symbolism.
- Strömstad is known for its natural features, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. Visitors can explore marine national parks, ancient monuments, and Art Nouveau architecture.
- The attractions around Strömstad are appreciated by the komoot community, with 55 highlights, 149 upvotes, and 162 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Elgåfossen Waterfall
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Stenskeppet (The Stone Ship)
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Götiska Förbundet Monument
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The Götiska Förbundet (Gothic League) was an association of Swedish writers who wanted to bring the spirit of Norse mythology into the first half of the 19th century.
The beginnings of the federal government lay in regular meetings of some (former) fellow students who wanted to celebrate the "old northerners". At these meetings they wore Viking helmets, drank from horns and gave themselves Old Nordic names. Over time, the common idea developed at the meetings to bring the Scandinavian people closer to the spirit of the north through poetry and stories. Based on this idea, the group founded Götiska Förbundet in 1811. In their poems they mixed Old Norse with Celtic, Greek and Roman elements, thereby trying to make the old world of the north the subject of poetic treatment and historical research.
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Strömstad City Hall
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Cavalli-Holmgren wanted the town hall to be inaugurated on January 27, 1911. That did not happen. The house was not ready until 1917. At that time, the relationship between the donor and the rulers in Strömstad was frosty, and no inauguration was relevant. The story goes that the donor therefore never got peace, and that he is occasionally seen in the town hall at night ever since the house was ready.
It was not inaugurated until 100 years later on January 27, 2017, when in connection with the house undergoing an extensive renovation.
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Resö Church
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Tips from the Community
Strömstad is worth a visit. There are many old buildings and art to see.
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Very big and beautiful watefall, at the border between Sweden and Norway. There is a small parking nearby (4, 5 cars max), which is above the waterfall. There is a sign going in the forest, and in 5min we reach the water. Many viewpoints from here. Then you can cross the bridge with the 2 country flags, and go down the path along the waterfall. Also many viewpoints from there. There is another bridge at the bottom, and it's possible to go back easily to the parking, without having to climb back next to the waterfall.
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The Elgåfossen separates Sweden & Norway, the bridge unites them again 😉
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My landlady recommended that I go to the waterfall when the weather is bad. Then a lot of water comes down...
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The waterfall on the border between Sweden and Norway is definitely worth a visit, especially since the other large waterfalls in Sweden are further north.
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The Blomshom stone ship is around 2,000 years old and, at 41x9 m, is the third largest in Sweden. It is believed that it was built near the shore and served as a place of worship. The inscribed stone in the middle, with the year 1668, was added later. The attraction is not wheelchair accessible. There is a parking lot to the west, from which a path leads to the stone ship.
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Elgafossen (or more precisely Elgåfossen or Elgaafossen in Norwegian and Älgafallet or Algafallet in Swedish) was a shared waterfall between Norway and Sweden. In fact, its watercourse on a tributary of the Enningdalsälven called Elja defined parts of the Swedish-Norwegian border.
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An imposing stone setting of unknown age.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore in Strömstad?
Strömstad offers a wealth of natural beauty. You can visit the Elgåfossen Waterfall, which sits on the Swedish-Norwegian border. The region is also home to the Kosterhavet National Park, Sweden's only marine national park, encompassing the car-free Koster Islands. Other natural areas include the nature reserves on Rossö and Saltö islands, and the tranquil Strömsån river.
Are there opportunities for hiking or cycling near Strömstad's attractions?
Yes, Strömstad is excellent for outdoor activities. The Koster Islands offer superb opportunities for biking and hiking. The Bohusleden trail also passes through or near Strömstad, providing scenic coastal routes. For specific routes, you can explore options like the Running Trails around Strömstad or Gravel biking around Strömstad, which include routes like the 'Strömstad Harbor – Saltö Nature Reserve loop'.
What historical sites are there to visit in Strömstad?
Strömstad boasts several significant historical sites. Don't miss Stenskeppet (The Stone Ship), an ancient ship setting with 49 stones, likely from the younger Iron Age. The Blomsholm area, where Stenskeppet is located, is rich in ancient monuments. You can also visit Skee Church, one of Bohuslän's oldest churches dating back to the 12th century, and the Götiska Förbundet Monument.
Are there any significant cultural attractions in Strömstad?
Absolutely. The Strömstad City Hall is a notable example of grand Art Nouveau architecture. For local history and maritime heritage, visit the Strömstads Museum. The Friluftsmuseet Fiskartorpet is an open-air museum showcasing traditional fishermen's cottages, and Konsthallen Lokstallet is an art gallery housed in an old industrial monument.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Strömstad?
Yes, Strömstad offers several family-friendly options. The Elgåfossen Waterfall and Stenskeppet (The Stone Ship) are both suitable for families. For a fun day out, Daftöland is a pirate-themed amusement park. The Tjärnö Aquarium, located nearby, is Sweden's most species-rich aquarium and a great educational experience for all ages.
Where can I experience marine life or the archipelago?
The Kosterhavet National Park is the prime location for experiencing marine life and the archipelago. You can take guided tours, go kayaking, snorkeling along designated trails, or diving. The Koster Islands themselves offer picturesque fishing villages and beautiful beaches, perfect for exploring the coastal environment.
What is notable about the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/2045548" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Strömstad City Hall</a>?
The Strömstad City Hall, completed in 1917, is celebrated for its grand Art Nouveau architecture and unique number symbolism, as per the wishes of its donor, Adolf Fritiof Cavalli-Holmgren. It's a striking building with a fascinating local history.
When is the best time to visit Strömstad for outdoor activities?
The warmer months, typically late spring to early autumn, are ideal for outdoor activities in Strömstad, allowing you to fully enjoy hiking, cycling, kayaking, and exploring the archipelago and national park. However, the region offers beauty year-round, with unique experiences in every season.
What are some scenic walks around Strömstad?
Beyond the Koster Islands, you can enjoy tranquil strolls along the Strömsån river, offering lush greenery. The nature reserves on Rossö and Saltö islands provide beautiful coastal walks. The long seafront promenade in the town center also offers charming views and access to local boutiques and cafes.
Are there any unique experiences or hidden gems in Strömstad?
For a unique experience, visit the Alaska stone and flower park on Nord Långö island, a magical garden. Another local tradition is taking a sauna and cold dip at Strömstads Kallbadhus, a floating bathhouse. The Svinesund Bridges, connecting Sweden and Norway, also offer impressive views of the strait.
What do visitors enjoy the most about Strömstad?
Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning natural beauty, especially the unique marine environment of the Kosterhavet National Park and the charm of the Koster Islands. The blend of historical sites like Stenskeppet (The Stone Ship) and the picturesque town atmosphere, combined with diverse outdoor activities, makes Strömstad a highly appreciated destination.
Most popular attractions around Strömstad
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