Havstenssund between islands, coast and maritime history

Havstenssund brings together coastal landscapes, island trails and maritime history within a compact thematic area. Those looking for a place with nature experiences, a connection to the water and cultural and historical impressions for their trip will find various ways to spend their days here. The choice of accommodation can be matched well to personal interests: walks, the bathing area, oyster safaris or insights into the history of coastal shipping each add their own distinctive touch.

Coast and islands around Havstenssund

Immediately north of Havstenssund lie the islands of Trossö, Kalvö and Lindö. They offer a varied coastal landscape and give the area its distinctive maritime character. A walking trail crosses the interconnected islands of Kalvö, Lindö and Trossö, passing through varied natural surroundings and green spaces. The island group is therefore a destination in its own right for visitors who enjoy spending time outdoors and combining different landscape impressions.

The Kosterhavet National Park also shapes the surrounding area. Havstenssund is part of this national park, 98 percent of whose area consists of marine habitats. Those planning a trip focused on the coast, islands and marine nature can take this feature into account when choosing where to stay. The island trails and the national park represent different perspectives on the same maritime surroundings.

Walks with views

Another way to experience Havstenssund is to walk through Målarklöva. The trail leads to the summit of Sunneberget. From there, it is possible to enjoy panoramic views over the village, the islands and the strait. The view thus connects the inhabited coastal village with the surrounding island world. For active travellers, this walk can be a worthwhile part of the day’s plans, without implying any particular duration or level of difficulty.

Those who prefer shorter walks around the village and historical impressions can explore the older northern parts of Havstenssund. There is a well-preserved environment with buildings, streets and gardens. The Havstenssund Chapel also provides an insight into the local architectural history: the building is made of wood, has a slate roof and was built in the late 1930s.

Maritime heritage and experiences by the water

Havstenssund has a maritime history. The area is already mentioned in Norwegian royal sagas from around 1100. There were early pilots, customs services and an inn here to serve coastal shipping. Havstenssund is also classified as an area of national interest for the preservation of the cultural environment. These historical connections also make the village interesting for travellers who want to combine a coastal stay with regional history.

Today’s range of experiences includes year-round oyster safaris from Havstenssunds Ostron AB to its own oyster farm. For activities on the water or guided excursions, kayak, guide and suitable adventure packages with or without accommodation can be booked through Skärgårdsidyllen Kayak & Outdoor or Minto Tingvall. The municipal bathing area in Havstenssund has a mixed sandy and rocky shore, grassy areas, a jetty and a diving tower. This allows nature, maritime cuisine and water-based experiences to be given different emphasis depending on travel preferences.

Travel planning orientation

When looking for a hotel in Havstenssund, it is worth considering the kind of daily rhythm you want: island trails and viewpoints are suited to active days, the bathing area to time by the water, while the chapel, cultural environment and maritime history offer a quieter, culture-oriented approach. For maritime orientation, the municipal guest harbour in Havstenssund’s South Harbour is also relevant: it has space for 15 boats and provides access to toilets and showers. For further orientation, you can also look at Tanumshede, Rabbalshede, Fjällbacka, Kleva Västra, Grebbestad, Flötenmarksen, Lur and Tänum. Havstenssund itself offers a distinctly maritime combination of coastal landscapes, islands, history and nature-oriented activities.

For the broader travel overview: Tanum.