Fishing town turned spa retreat, Lysekil has a small-town atmosphere with a welcoming history. Though originally inhabited by quasi-pirates, who lit false fires to make boats crash into the granite cliffs and lose their cargo, today it is a very civilized place. Fishing has long dominated the town. During a visit here, be sure to taste fresh fish and explore the deep connections Lysekil has with the sea.
Meet the North Sea’s underwater species at Havets Hus, a small and well-organized aquarium with more than 100 species endemic to the area. See the water from above while walking through the Stangehuvud Naturreservat, which offers great views of fishing boats bobbing in the sea. Learn about the fishing industry and past daily life at the Vikarvets Museum or dive into the water on a scuba expedition or kayaking trip.
Head to Gamlestan, Lysekil’s Old Town, where narrow streets are lined with colorful houses and restaurants. Get a sense of local painting and ceramics at the Galleri Tint. Enjoy a picnic lunch of traditional open-faced sandwiches on the green lawns of City Park. Admire the multi-colored granite used to build the Lysekil Church. Imagine yourself as a well-heeled Swedish socialite frequenting the burnt-orange Curman Villas during the spa town’s heyday.
Lysekil is part of the network of inlets and fjords just north of Gothenburg in southwestern Sweden. It’s also close to the Norwegian border, easy to access from Oslo. Take a direct bus in 2 hours from Gothenburg or ride the train to the nearby centers of Uddevalla or Trollhätten and transfer to the local bus. The closest airport is a 1-hour drive away in Trollhättan, which has regular flights to Stockholm. Oslo is a 2.5-hour drive away. A ferry system connects Lysekil and some nearby towns. Use the public bus system too.
Sweden is known more for its coffee and vodka than its wine. However, try excellent northern wine vintages at Chateaux Luna, affiliated with one of Lysekil’s best restaurants.
