Travel Guide Strömstad

Clinging to high grey rocks with pink reflections, polished by the ice, this seaside resort south of the Norwegian border (from which it is barely 25 km away) is nestled at the bottom of a bay, at the entrance to a fjord spanned by three bridges. From there, you can see a multitude of islets among which the Koster islands, a paradise for swimmers. Once Norwegian, as well as the entire Bohuslän region, this small fishing village became Swedish in 1658, before becoming, at the end of the 18th century, a seaside resort renowned for its spring water. Today, although mussel and shrimp fishing and small electronics and mechanical engineering industries play a significant role in the economy, it is tourism that provides the most jobs and generates the town's prosperity. It is true that Strömstad is not lacking in attractions, with its two colorful and lively marinas and its small cobbled streets that lead down to the harbor. Moreover, in 2009, Sweden's first protected marine national park was established here. Inaugurated by the King, Kosterhavet is a protected area of 450 km² dedicated to the protection of species and the discovery of the exceptional natural heritage of these places. Strömstad is spread out over hills from which you can see the rocky coast and, in the background, the islands of the archipelago. On one of these promontories, in the north, on the other side of the Strömsan river, the town hall dominates the city with its pale green dome. This color is also found on many of the village's roofs: some churches, public buildings and individual houses are covered in this green, which contributes to the originality of Strömstad. On summer evenings, the quayside, which sometimes smells of French fries, is very lively, and the benches and terraces are crowded. The occupants of the sailing boats go ashore to enjoy plates of shrimp while drinking a glass of wine; one strolls along the harbor looking at the boats and the setting sun... Finally, if you are in the area at the beginning of August, you will not miss the attraction of the day, the rowing race of the restaurant waiters, between Strömstad and the Koster islands. The whole town is out and the beer is flowing in a euphoric atmosphere.