Boating Holiday
Taking the sea route through the Kalmar Strait, from Torsås to Västervik and the beautiful Tjust Archipelago, is an experience you won’t want to miss. Both Småland and Öland offer hidden gems, whether you choose to explore mainland Småland or the island of Öland.
From South to North
Along this stretch of coastline, you’ll find 32 guest harbours, giving you plenty of opportunities to moor, discover new places and enjoy life at sea at your own pace. Arriving by boat from the south, you’ll encounter a coastline rich in variety and experiences. You can choose to stop at one of the charming guest harbours in southern Öland, where the open landscape meets the sea, or head for Bergkvara Guest Harbour in Torsås – a welcoming harbour close to both nature and services. Continuing north through the Kalmar Strait, you’ll reach Kalmar on the mainland, a historic city known for its castle and cobbled streets. Here, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to take a break, enjoy city life and restock both energy and provisions.
The Magnificent Öland Bridge
As your journey continues, one of the coast’s most impressive sights awaits – sailing beneath the mighty Öland Bridge, which stretches across the strait and connects the mainland with the island of Öland. An experience in itself, especially when viewed from the water. North of the bridge, the voyage continues along a coastline characterised by small towns and archipelago landscapes. You’ll pass Mönsterås and continue towards Oskarshamn, where the Misterhult Archipelago unfolds with its untouched islands, sheltered bays and rich birdlife. Along the entire route, you can also make detours to Öland’s many guest harbours, each with its own unique character. At the northern edge of the region lies Västervik – one of the gems of Sweden’s east coast, surrounded by the Tjust Archipelago with more than 5,000 islands, islets and skerries. Here, a vibrant archipelago and picturesque harbours await.
Discover Öland – The Island of Sun and Wind
Öland offers an exceptional combination of stunning nature, rich cultural heritage, local craftsmanship and remarkable culinary experiences. Here, you can explore charming harbours, expansive white sandy beaches and idyllic fishing villages. Visit picturesque destinations such as Byxelkrok, Borgholm and Färjestaden, where you can enjoy cosy surroundings, excellent restaurants, local breweries and farm shops selling locally produced delicacies.
Explore Nature & Culture
For those who love discovering nature on foot or by bicycle, there is a network of scenic trails that lead through a world of history and beautiful landscapes. Admire majestic castles, fascinating ancient monuments and the unique agricultural landscape of southern Öland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, you’ll also encounter the island’s iconic lighthouses – Långe Erik in the north and Sweden’s tallest lighthouse, Långe Jan, in the south – both contributing to Öland’s distinctive character.
And then there are the sunsets – an experience in themselves. Many visitors travel here solely to watch the sun paint the sky in brilliant colours as it slowly sinks into the sea. It’s a sight you won’t soon forget.



Bergkvara Guest Harbour and Garpen Lighthouse
Bergkvara, the guest harbour just outside Torsås, is located right next to Dalskär Camping. Here, you can wash away the stresses of everyday life and enjoy peace and tranquillity in a rural setting…
Bergkvara, the guest harbour just outside Torsås, is located right next to Dalskär Camping. Here, you can wash away the stresses of everyday life and enjoy peace and tranquillity in a rural setting. Small country roads, beautiful forest trails and flowering meadows make the area perfect for walks, cycling and other outdoor activities. Nature lovers will find all their senses rewarded. From here, you’ll enjoy stunning views across the Kalmar Strait, and a few kilometres offshore you’ll spot the small island of Garpen with Garpen Lighthouse. The boat Gustav departs from Bergkvara Marina and takes you comfortably to the island for a day trip. On the island, you can enjoy a coffee at the café or a meal at the restaurant, which is fully licensed. Don’t miss the chance to climb the lighthouse and marvel at the view!



A Popular Guest Harbour on Sweden’s East Coast
Kalmar is home to one of the most popular guest harbours on Sweden’s east coast. Here, you can moor right in the city centre, within walking distance of shopping and entertainment. Kalmar Castle, which dominates the city skyline, dates back to the 12th century but gained its current appearance during the reign of the Vasa kings in the 16th century. Throughout the year, you can enjoy exhibitions, guided tours in several languages and events for all ages. The castle also has a café serving both meals and refreshments.
Kalmar City Centre
Kvarnholmen is the heart of the city, filled with shops, restaurants and cafés, as well as historic cultural buildings with fascinating stories. Kalmar’s city centre was relocated here in the mid-17th century from its previous location in the Old Town near Kalmar Castle. If you enjoy strolling around, you’ll find charming streets and alleyways to explore, offering both great food and historic surroundings – all within walking distance of the popular guest harbour.



Mönsterås
This is where the beautiful east coast archipelago begins. The municipality of Mönsterås offers 150 kilometres of coastline and several guest harbours, making it an ideal destination for boating enthusiasts. When you moor in Mönsterås, you can visit the ruins of Kronobäck Monastery, a fascinating historical site that takes you back to the Middle Ages. Explore the ancient walls and experience the echoes of history in this unique setting.
If you choose instead to visit the gem of Timmernabben, you can enjoy an excellent fish dish at Nabbens Rökeri & Fisk and buy locally produced sweets from the highly popular Råsnäs Konfektyrer. Here, you can enjoy handmade confectionery and see how it is made. The factory is famous for its delicious roasted almonds and is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth



Oskarshamn
Along the coast of Småland lies Oskarshamn, a coastal gem with five unique guest harbours offering something for everyone. Stretching from north to south through beautiful archipelago landscapes and charming villages, each harbour has its own appeal. In the north, you’ll find Klintemåla and Figeholm, two idyllic harbours surrounded by untouched archipelago scenery. Klintemåla is perfect for exploring the Misterhult Archipelago by canoe, while Figeholm offers a charming marina close to local shops.
More Harbours
In the heart of the town lies Oskarshamn Guest Harbour, close to shopping, restaurants and boat trips to the Blue Maiden National Park. You’ll also find a boat and engine museum here. Just outside the town centre is Ernemar Guest Harbour, a peaceful spot with walking trails and a café. Furthest south is Påskallavik Guest Harbour, where we recommend visiting the harbour café for homemade pastries and a family-friendly atmosphere. The nearby playground and tranquil surroundings make it ideal for families with children.
Whichever harbour you choose, an experience filled with charm, proximity to nature and the pulse of coastal life awaits. Discover everything the Oskarshamn coast has to offer!



Västervik – Småland’s Archipelago Town
With more than 5,000 islands, islets and skerries, the Tjust Archipelago is a paradise for boating enthusiasts. From Blankaholm in the south to Loftahammar in the north, you’ll find several guest harbours both along the mainland and on islands throughout the archipelago. The largest islands with guest harbours offering restaurants, shops and activities are Hasselö, Idö and Rågö. Västervik is the archipelago’s main town, home to just over 20,000 permanent residents. During the summer, the pace quickens and the town comes alive.
Discover Västervik Town Centre
Explore the town centre, where you can browse shops, attend events and enjoy food and refreshments at local restaurants and cafés. Within Västervik itself, you’ll find three guest harbours: Slottsholmen Marina, Pampas Guest Harbour and Gränsö Castle. Perfect if you’d like to enjoy a little city atmosphere. Västervik also offers spa experiences at Gränsö and Warmbadhuset for those looking to relax while enjoying beautiful views.



The Archipelago of Småland
Småland offers a magnificent archipelago environment in the form of the Tjust and Misterhult Archipelagos. Here, you can island-hop, enjoy peace and tranquillity, and experience the ultimate southern Swedish archipelago adventure.