North of Varberg the landscape changes – the sandy beaches become rocks and the first islands start to become visible: Getterön, Balgö and Vendelsö. The path takes you down to Bua harbour, a fishing hamlet where you can sample delicacies from the sea. The path has mixed traffic through Frillesås and then continues on the old railway embankment, where you can enjoy a car­free stretch along the coast. Pause at one of the bathing beaches in Åsa for an ice cream at the cafe or coffee and a cake at the bakery.

Take a detour to Tjolöholm Castle- Sweden’s only Tudor castle. You carry on cycling alongside fields and equestrian centres. Take a break in Hanhals at Rolfsbron, a beautiful arched stone bridge from the 1600s.

In Kungsbacka, the path goes through the town, one of the biggest trade centres in western Sweden.

Varberg – In the midst of history with a particular feel for water

In Varberg people are particularly enamoured of water.

Back in the early 1800s, the town was already a well­known health resort to which people flocked to drink the waters, and water still holds a key position: in Varberg you can enjoy everything from relaxing spa treatments to refreshing nud­ist bathing and pulse­raising surfing.

Kattegattleden runs along the beautiful Strandpromenaden from the surfing mecca of Apelviken, past the famous nude beaches to the historic, mighty Varberg Fortress. Cycle to downtown Varberg and experience the town’s lively ‘square days’, or enjoy the rich bird life at Naturum Getterön.

You can also enjoy a day trip to Åkulla Bokskogar for a lovely hike, peaceful fishing in a lake, or coffee with homemade treats at one of the local destinations.

Kungsbacka – Soft rocks and long beaches

Kungsbacka was founded back in the 1500s and was Danish until 1645. The old wooden houses make their mark on the town centre, offering a picturesque atmosphere with cafes, restaurants and shops.

Röda Stugan, Kungsbacka’s oldest building, is now a cosy cafe where you can enjoy smørrebrød or coffee in the cottage or garden. The cottage is just a stone’s throw from Kattegattleden and the beautiful square that is framed by out­ door cafes in summer. The first Thursday of each month that isn’t a public holiday is market day in the square, as it has been for over 600 years.

From Tölöberg, Kungsbacka’s oldest water tower from 1897, you can see almost the whole of Kungsbacka. Kungsbackaån river winds through the town, flowing out into Kungsbacka­ fjorden. On the other side of the fjord, right by the sea, is Tjolöholm Castle, Sweden’s only Tudor castle.

Kungsbacka is one of the top places to shop in western Swe­den. The genuine and traditional are still alive, alongside with the new, modern shopping centres.

Practical information

Remember to check the opening times of the destinations and sights you intend to visit and ideally book your accommodation in advance!

Sweden’s right of public access is a unique opportunity for everyone to roam freely in the countryside. But you also need to take responsibility for animal and plant life and show consideration for land owners and other visitors. Don’t disturb – don’t destroy, in other words. The right of public access is limited in national parks and nature reserves. It is always you as the person visiting the countryside who bears responsibility for being aware of the rules that apply in the area that you are visiting.

Also remember to keep the cycle path free of litter – take your rubbish with you to the nearest bin!

Surface 95% paved, 5% gravel.

Welcome to Kattegattleden!