One of my favourite parts of the world is the unique, rocky Island of Tjorn in the region of Bohuslan, the coastal stretch on the beautiful archipelago of Sweden’s West Coast. The area is reached by a spectacular drive across 2 amazing bridges including the Tjorn Bridge which joins it to the mainland near Gothenburg, its nearest airport. In summer from June until the end of August the weather can be beautiful, and on arrival I can’t wait to get out into the fresh air to walk, talk and enjoy the dramatic scenery. And I always take my paints in the hope of capturing a scene.
Bohuslan is a great centre to stay, small hotels, good B&Bs and plenty of places to discover not too far away. There are charming fishing communities, piers, boat houses, islets and skerries to visit, and newly caught fish and seafood to enjoy. Or I can climb aboard an archipelago boat, go on a fishing tour or just go shopping! The charming village of Skarhamn is Tjorn’s largest working fishing community, dominated by the beautiful church with its smiley face which welcomes home fishermen from the dangerous waters. On the southwest tip of the island lies Kladesholmen, the cradle of herring production, still making pickled herring among the fishing communities hugging the shoreline. Skarhamn is also a cultural centre which houses the ultra modern Nordic Watercolour Museum. This year’s exhibition highlighted the work of living artist Lars Lerin, who’s considered one of Sweden’s leading artists in watercolour technique.
The delightful Pilane Sculpture Park is a must to visit, where amongst the grazing sheep is a collection of modern sculpture by well known international artists, stunning in its natural environment. Sometimes I take a ferryboat further west to Marstrand, a city on an island, dominated by Carlstens Fortress with its deep dungeons. Marstrand is a thriving centre for history, sailing, culture, food and shopping. Journeying through Bohuslan the landscape is varied with smooth rocks, lovely beaches, lush foliage and unique flora and fauna, much protected in nature reserves. But when I feel energetic I take another ferryboat to the small rugged island of Dyron, close to Tjorn, to walk and to climb. It’s a bracing experience! Travelling inland the gentle terrain of Tjorn is perfect for biking, but a trip further north to Lysekil completes my Swedish experience. Here nature has created vast areas of coloured patterned carpets amongst the rocks, and just like Bohuslan – it’s magic!
Further Information
For wonderful trips to Sweden, Silver Travel Advisor recommends Sunvil Discovery.
