Family cycling on the Koster islands
Are you thinking of taking the family to the archipelago paradise on the border and wondering what you can do there? Whether you bring your own bike or rent one on Koster, the principle is the same: Koster is best explored on two wheels!
Explore Koster by bike
Photographer: Jonas Ingman
Nice stops along the way
The cycle paths on South Koster offer lots of enjoyable detours. Just north of Ekenäs you can stop at Rörvik and explore life below the surface along the marked snorkelling trail at the Rörvik shore. And don’t miss South Koster’s highest point, Valfjäll, for its breathtaking views of The Koster Islands and the surrounding archipelago, it’s quite a sight!
And don’t miss a visit to naturum Kosterhavet, the national park’s visitors’ centre. There is an interactive exhibition, petting aquarium, films, souvenir shop and excellent guides who can tell you all about the Marine National Park and life under the water.
Some other nice stops are the sandy beach at Kilesand, and Brevik harbour where there is a barbecue area and picnic tables.
Photographer: Katrin Sjögren
Good to know
Getting here
Passenger ferries to the Koster Islands depart from Norra hamnen (the North Harbour) in Strömstad every day, all year round, with more frequent departures in summer.
The scenic crossing to Nordkoster (North Koster) and Sydkoster (South Koster) takes around 45 minutes, depending on your stop. Leave your car in Strömstad and enjoy exploring the islands on foot or by bike on South Koster.
You can buy your ferry ticket on board. Bringing your own bike? It travels free of charge, subject to space on board.
Check ferry timetables and ticket information.
Bike rental
Exploring South Koster by bike is a lovely way to see more of the island at your own pace. Distances are short, leaving plenty of time for a swim, a picnic or a fika along the way.
You’ll find bike rentals at both Ekenäs and Långegärde, with options for the whole family. You can pick up your bike at one harbour and return it at the other before catching the ferry back to Strömstad. Check the rental website for opening hours and availability.
Use the cycling map to find your way around, and leave your bike behind when exploring the walking trails.
Cycling distances
Most rides between stops are just a few kilometres, making it easy to combine a gentle bike ride with time to explore.
Terrain
Gravel roads and cycle tracks, almost completely car free.