Island hopping just a stone’s throw from Gothenburg

All it takes is a tram ride from the centre of Gothenburg and a short journey on the regular ferry service to find yourself in the southern archipelago, a group of entirely pedestrian-only islands where time seems to have stood still. Places such as Brännö, Styrsö, Donsö and Vrångö welcome visitors with their characteristic wooden houses and footpaths winding through cliffs and heathland.

Here, you can explore on foot or by bike, alternating between refreshing walks and stops at little cafés for a traditional fika – the Swedish coffee break featuring coffee and homemade cakes. For those wishing to stay a little longer, the local hospitality offers charming accommodation such as the historic Brännö Värdshus or the Isbolaget hotel in Donsö, housed in an old harbour ice house. The day often ends in the local tradition: a relaxing sauna with a sea view as the sun slowly sinks below the horizon.