Northern archipelago
The Northern Archipelago
The northern archipelago is one of Gothenburg's most scenic destinations and stretches from Björkö and Hönö to Öckerö, Fotö, Hälsö, Grötö, Rörö, and Hyppeln. Unlike the southern archipelago, the islands are reached by car ferry from Lilla Varholmen, making the area easily accessible all year round.
Each island has its own character, from lively guest harbours and fishing villages to tranquil nature reserves and long coastal paths. Here, visitors are met by rocky shores, bracing sea swims, picturesque harbours and a vibrant archipelago life where fishing and seafaring still shape everyday life.
The northern archipelago is a popular destination for hiking, cycling, kayaking and boating. During the summer, the islands are filled with cafes, restaurants and small shops, while nature offers peace and vast sea views all year round.
From Gothenburg View, you can see the northern archipelago spread out along the horizon. Together with the southern archipelago, the islands form a unique coastal landscape that has protected Gothenburg's coast and attracted visitors for generations.
Hönö
Hönö is one of the most visited islands in Gothenburg's northern archipelago and is known for its vibrant island life, fishing traditions, and the charming harbour of Hönö Klåva. Here, commercial fishing coexists with restaurants, cafés, small shops, and a lively boat scene, making the island a popular destination all year round.
Fishing has shaped Hönö for generations and remains an important part of the island's identity. Along the quays, fishing boats lie side by side with recreational boats, and visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, local delicacies, and the genuine atmosphere that characterises a classic West Coast community.
Hönö also offers magnificent natural experiences. Along the coastline, smooth granite cliffs, bracing sea swims and hiking trails stretch out with views over the Kattegat. From the viewpoints on the island, it's easy to understand why the archipelago is one of Gothenburg's most appreciated destinations.
Thanks to the car ferry from Lilla Varholmen, Hönö is easy to reach and serves as a natural starting point for discovering the northern archipelago's islands, nature, and maritime culture.
Öckerö
Öckerö is the central locality in Gothenburg's northern archipelago and has for centuries been an important place for fishing, seafaring, and coastal life. Today, the island is a vibrant archipelago environment where tradition meets modern everyday life, with marinas, coastal paths, and an active local community.
The harbour is the island's natural meeting point and is lined with fishing boats, sailboats, and cafés. Boats depart from here to the surrounding islands, while visitors can enjoy the authentic archipelago environment and views of the Kattegat.
Öckerö is also an excellent starting point for discovering the northern archipelago. With proximity to nature reserves, swimming spots, and hiking trails, the island offers both peaceful nature experiences and vibrant coastal life all year round.
From Gothenburg View, you can see Öckerö as part of the northern archipelago – a coastal landscape where the sea, fishing, and archipelago traditions still shape life, making the area a popular destination for both Gothenburg residents and visitors.