The Kattegattleden, Sweden's west coast cycle route

Cycling in Sweden from Helsingborg to Gothenburg along the North Sea

Highlights

The Kattegattleden, a safe, signposted cycle route
Gothenburg, Sweden's second-largest city
Coastal paths with sea views
Nature reserves
Bathing opportunities on the beaches of Sweden's west coast
The Gothenburg archipelago and its constellation of islets
The lively towns of Båstad, Halmstad, Falkenberg, Varberg and Kungsbacka

Cycling Sweden's West Coast from Helsingborg to Gothenburg

The Kattegattleden is the Swedish section of Eurovelo 12 "The North Sea Cycle Route", and Eurovelo 7 "The Sun Route". This cycling route was voted "Europe's Best Cycle Route" in 2018. It guides you along Sweden's west coast along the Kattegat. It's a must for cycling trips in Sweden.

Välkommen till Sverige! Welcome to Sweden! Sweden is a long country, stretching over 2,000 kilometers from the south to the north of the Scandinavian peninsula. This cycling tour of Sweden takes you along the country’s west coast between Helsingborg and Gothenburg. The Kattegattleden (Swedish for “Kattegat route”) links these two cities over a distance of 370 kilometers. Its safe, signposted route allows cyclists to cruise along the Swedish coastline in complete peace of mind. The alternation between greenways, cycle paths and small, low-traffic country roads is an antidote to monotony.

All along the Kattegattleden route, numerous beaches invite you to swim in the Kattegat Sea. Despite the latitude, the water temperature is quite mild, ranging from 16 to 20°C during the summer season. Ideal for cooling off during a cycling trip. Sweden’s west coast offers a wide range of bucolic landscapes. Between Helsingborg and Varberg, the coastline stretches out in long sandy beaches. Near Halmstad, Tylösand beach is the region’s most famous, but there are others, such as Långasand and Mellbystrand. These beaches are sometimes interrupted by rocky outcrops, such as Kullaberg.

The northern part of the route between Varberg and Göteborg is more rugged and rocky. Offshore, a constellation of granite islets bathe in the calm waters of the Kattegat. These small islands, accessible by boat, are ideal for timeless stopovers in the middle of the waves. Numerous nature reserves, a birdwatcher’s paradise, complete the scenery of this Viking land.

The Kattegattleden also allows you to discover the region’s most beautiful cities. Gothenburg is Sweden’s second most populous city. Nature is still omnipresent and quickly accessible, making it a pleasant city to visit. If you have the time, a day on one of the islands in the Gothenburg archipelago is a must. Nestling on the coast, Helsingborg, Båstad, Falkenberg and Varberg are charming little towns whose history is closely linked to the sea. In these towns, you can also admire the famous colorful wooden huts typical of Scandinavia.

Sweden also has a relaxed, calm and restful atmosphere. On a long summer’s evening, join the Swedes for an ice cream or toast with them, a cold beer in hand, overlooking the sea.

Gastronomy in this part of Sweden is largely sea-based. Nothing beats locally caught mackerel, cod, turbot or whiting. Shrimps from Smögen are also highly prized, as are langoustines and oysters from Grebbestad, known the world over. On the sweet side, don’t miss Kanelbullar, the famous cinnamon rolls found throughout Sweden.

 

Carte séjour Kattegattleden, la cote ouest suédoise à vélo
Niveau FitFit
Day 1

HELSINGBORG

Välkommen till Sverige. Welcome to Sweden.

Helsingborg is a pretty seaside town with a lively harbour and beaches. As soon as you arrive, you can enjoy a swim in the North Sea. In the evening, seafood lovers will be delighted at the table.

Day 2

From HELSINGBORG to ÄNGELHOLM 49km 140m Niveau Loisir

Departing from the pretty town of Helsingborg, you set off on the Kattegattleden route. You ride along the sea, enjoying lovely views of the Öresund and the Danish islands. At the start of the stage, you pass Sofiero Castle, renowned for its magnificent garden. You continue towards Höganäs on small tracks winding through the gently undulating Swedish countryside. At the end of the stage, you reach the pretty town of Ängelholm.

Meeting with our local guide

Before your first ride, we invite you to meet one of our guides, at your place of departure. A time of exchange, a privileged moment to give you our last practical tips, must-see places and experiences, to answer all your questions, take care of your bike fitting to begin your trip.

  • For a few more km 62km 213m Niveau Forme

    After Höganäs you continue to the rocky peninsula of Kullahalvön. At the tip of the peninsula lies the Kullaberg nature reserve. And why not sample some Swedish wine along the way? Some of Scania’s finest vineyards can be found here.

Day 3

From ÄNGELHOLM to HALMSTAD 60km 322m Niveau Forme

The start of the stage is quite sporty, with the steep relief of the Bjäre peninsula. Agriculture dominates the very green landscape, and beautiful sea views are the reward for your climbing efforts. After a beautiful descent, you reach the coast and a greenway facing the sea guides you to the pretty village of Båstad.

From Båstad you can take the train to Halmstad if the 60 km of the day’s journey is enough for you (41 km if you cut across the Bjäre peninsula).

  • For a few more km 94km 450m Niveau Expert

    After Båstad you continue by bike. You leave Scania to discover the Halland region. The route is generally easy, and at times reminiscent of the landscapes of the Landes in France. Pine forests and long sandy beaches are a delight to cycle.

Day 4

From HALMSTAD to FALKENBERG 57km 207m Niveau Forme

From Halmstad, you continue towards one of the most popular beaches on the west coast, Tylösand. Then, bathed in beautiful beaches (Frösakull, Ringenäs and Vilshärad), the wild coastline stretches as far as the eye can see. You also pass through a number of nature reserves.
The end of the stage in the Falkenberg area is pleasant, with a charming dune landscape. End of the stage in Falkenberg, one of the oldest medieval towns in the Halland region.

Day 5

From FALKENBERG to VARBERG 39km 89m Niveau Loisir

From Falkenberg to Varberg, continue your escape along the west coast. From beach to beach. You pass Apelviken, a beach that attracts surfers from all over Europe.
In Varberg, don’t miss the town fortress, well worth a visit. You can cycle up to the fortress. Evening in Varberg.

Day 6

From VARBERG to KUNGSBACKA 50km 207m Niveau Loisir

North of Varberg, the landscape changes radically: sandy beaches turn into rocky cliffs and the first constellations of islets (Getterön, Balgö and Vendelsö) appear.
Then you reach the beautiful beaches of Åsa. From here, you can take the train to the dynamic town of Kungsbacka.

  • For a few more km 72km 358m Niveau Forme

    You cycle all the way from Varberg to Kungsbacka. After Åsa, make a detour to Tjolöholm castle and then on to Fjärås Bräcka, famous for its 100 standing stones facing a pretty lake in a beautiful green setting.

Day 7

From KUNGSBACKA to GÖTEBORG 41km 217m Niveau Loisir

At the start of the stage, you ride along the Kungsbacka fjord. Then you pass through the small seaside village of Särö, a popular place where royalty and Gothenburg society met for entertainment in the early 20th century. The trail continues along steep cliffs, lush forests, bays and small harbours, offering many opportunities for strolling and places to swim and relax.
Approaching central Gothenburg, you pass Nya Varvet and the Klippan cultural reserve, then continue along Göta älv to Gothenburg.

  • For a few more km 63km 299m Niveau Forme

    You make a detour to the picturesque, jagged Onsala peninsula.

Day 8

GÖTEBORG

End of your cycling trip in Sweden after breakfast.

Have a safe return. Ses snart!

Comfort Range

Our quality standard at Abicyclette. This type of accommodation includes 2 and 3 stars hotels. Depending on the itinerary, you might spend some nights in approved guesthouses. You enjoy a double bedroom with private bathroom and toilet and adapted welcome for you and your bikes.


Starting from 1060€/participant in Self Guided option | See detailed prices

Essential Range

You want to enjoy your itinerary without anything fancy. Our ”essential” range offers a simple accommodation for a good night’s rest in a simple hotel, guesthouse, rest house or hostel.


Quote on request | Contact us

Privilege Range

Opt for total comfort in charming 3 and 4 star hotels which offer all the services you need and a special welcome for you and your bikes.


Quote on request | Contact us

Price includes

  • Accommodation: 7 nights in a Double room
  • 7 breakfasts
  • Luggage transfer
  • Phone assistance 24/7
  • Application fee
  • The routes described on the following media:
    • Tracking app
    • Route maps
    • A descriptive road book in english or german
  • Additional services included:
    • Day 2 : A personalized greeting in english with our team at the beginning of the trip to do a bikefitting and receive your travel documents.
  • Price does not include

    • bike rental (see option)
    • Breakfast on day 1
    • Lunches
    • Dinners not included in "Price includes"
    • Drinks, tours and other personal expenses

    A “homemade” stay made by a local partner specializing in Sweden:
    • Routes selected with the Abicyclette team for their tourist & cycling interests, fully marked, removed from traffic
    • Accommodation offered for the quality of their welcome, atmosphere, services and gastronomy
    • A great flexibility of organization which adapts to your needs and desires: you leave on the date of your choice! We check accommodation availability to ensure your departure.
    Local support :
    • Telephone assistance 7 days a week  from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from the ABICYCLETTE VOYAGES team
    • Local telephone assistance 7 days a week
    • Luggage transfer service
    A simplified route tracking:
    • A tracking app with all your routes
    • An English-language roadbook with useful addresses, tourist information, maps and a tour description.
    And also:

    We offer a high-end bike rental service. Our bikes are suited for road and gravel road long-distance cycling. Fully equipped and highly reliable, they are faithful travel companions.
    Our rentals include a "breakage and theft guarantee" for peace of mind when travelling. Information and details from your advisor.


    Touring Bike

    Touring bike. Brand : Cube or similar. 24 speeds. Disc brakes.

    Supplied equipment per bike

    • rear pannier
    • repair kit
    • lock
    • phone holder
    • helmet
    Vélo Randonnée VTC - Evertrek

    Touring Ebike

    Touring E-bike. Brand : Cube or Scott or similar. Disc brakes.

    Supplied equipment per bike

    • rear pannier
    • repair kit
    • lock
    • phone holder
    • helmet
    Vélo électrique Evertrek

    Getting here

    Departure city : HELSINGBORG

    Coming by car

    • at 14h from PARIS
    • at 10h from AMSTERDAM
    • at more than 16h from MILAN

    Coming by train

    • Helsingborg Train Station - More than 12h from Paris

    Coming by plane

    • Copenhagen Airport (Kastrup)
    • Helsingborg Airport

    Arrival city : GÖTEBORG

    Coming by car

    • at more than 16h from PARIS
    • at 13h from AMSTERDAM
    • at more than 16h from MILAN

    Coming by train

    • Gare de Göteborg - More than 12h from Paris

    Coming by plane

    • Aéroport de Göteborg

    *Parking: Since many of our clients travel by train or plane, we do not include parking in our packages. In addition, many accommodations don’t have the capacity to park a vehicle for the duration of your cycling vacation. So if you’re planning to arrive by car, we suggest you check parking options when you make your reservation. If you reserve a parking space at the first or last accommodation of your stay, you must pay the accommodation provider on site.

    * Abicyclette Voyages accompanies you on demand, including transportation solutions.

    How to get back to the starting point

    • By train from Göteborg to Helsingborg in 2h30 (hotline)
    • Return by car in 2h15 to your starting point
    • Private shuttle: see detailed fares or contact us

    Recommended equipment

    Bike

    • Hybrid Bike or Touring Bike or Gravel Bike
    • 18 to 30-speed transmission
    • 26- to 29-inch wheels
    • Tires: 35 to 42 section, reinforced against punctures
    • Disc brakes recommended
    • 2 bottle cages
    • Bell
    • Front and rear lighting

    Clothing and equipment

    • Helmet (supplied with bike rental unless otherwise specified locally)
    • 1 bike mount for smartphone to use the mobile route planner application
    • Suitable cycling clothing:
      • bib, shorts or tights: elastic and breathable, to facilitate movement and wick away perspiration
      • Breathable T-shirts, synthetic or merino wool
      • Breathable windbreaker
    • Thermal or fleece jacket
    • Waterproof jacket
    • 1 pair of sunglasses
    • 1 pair of cycling shoes
    • 1 backpack or 1 or 2 carrier bags
    • 1 or 2 water bottles (supplied with bike rental in France)
    • 1 lock (supplied with bike rental)
    • Technical details, recommended by the team for optimum comfort:
      • 1 pair of gloves or mittens, depending on season and destination
      • Padded bib (chamois)
      • High-visibility vest or fluorescent belt
      • Neck warmer and cap

    Bike maintenance

    • Emergency repair kit: 2 or 3 inner tubes, patches, pump, tire levers, multi-tools
    • Maintenance kit: rag, oil, brake pads

    Other

    • A suitcase for your belongings carried in the vehicle (limited to one per person)
    • Street clothes
    • 1 pair of evening shoes
    • Fleece jacket for the evening
    • Toiletry bag
    • Telephone and charger

    Terms of payment and cancellation

    The full terms and conditions of sale are available here: https://www.abicyclette-voyages.com/conditions-generales-de-vente/

    Booking and payment

    • Departure more than 30 days before your booking: payment of a deposit of 30%, excluding insurance, at the time of booking. If you have taken out travel insurance, it must be paid in full at the time of booking to guarantee its validity.
    • Departure within 30 days of your booking: payment of the total cost of your stay. Or payment of the balance of the holiday if you have already paid a deposit.

    Cancellation of the Contract

    You may cancel the Contract at any time before the start of the Tour, subject to payment of a cancellation fee. Any total or partial cancellation will incur the following costs per participant:

    Cancellation periodFees
    From the date of Booking to 60 days or more before departure or the 1st day of the programme5% of the total cost of the Tour (including options); a minimum of

    100 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer

    Between 59 and 30 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme 

    10% of the total cost of the Tour (including options); a minimum of

    120 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer

     

    Between 29 and 10 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme30% of the total amount of the Tour (including options) a minimum of

    150 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer

    Entre 9 à 7 jours avant le départ ou le 1er jour du programme45% du montant total du Voyage (options incluses)
    Between 9 and 7 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme75% of the total cost of the trip (including options)
    Less than 3 days to the day of departure or the 1st day of the programme100% of the total cost of the trip (including options)
    No show on day of departure or 1st day of programme

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