Sights: Rich fauna above and below the sea surface, including seals, the coral Lophelia pertusa and the silver-washed fritillary. Fine areas for walking, bird watching, beautiful rocky shorelines and clear waters for snorkelling.
Area: 38,878 hectares
Established: 2009
Location: Kosterhavet Marine National Park is in northern Bohuslän and can be reached from several towns along the coast.
Visiting Koster: Take the train on the Bohusbanan line or follow the E6 motorway north towards the Norwegian border. Koster boats depart from Strömstad all year round, passing through the national park on their journey. There are beautiful views over the Koster Sea from the islands of Resö, Rossö and Tjärnö, where more information is also available.
There are over 6,000 species of animals and algae under the surface in Kosterhavet. The cold-water coral Lophelia pertusa is one of just over 200 species whose only known location in Sweden is here at Koster. The national park also includes parts of the island of Rossö and numerous islets and skerries, particularly in the archipelago south-west of Koster. Mussels and seashells enrich the soil with lime, which favours flowers of various kinds.
The shallow outer archipelago of the Koster Sea is very much exposed to waves and wind. This marine environment is unusual in Sweden and offers visitors an exciting nature experience whatever the time of year.