Kattegattleden: 2025 is the 10th Anniversary of Sweden’s 390-Kilometre Coastal Adventure

Sweden’s first national cycling trail, Kattegattleden, is more than just a route—it’s a celebration of the country’s gorgeous west coast. Spanning a stunning 390 kilometres from Helsingborg to Gothenburg, the trail runs along the Kattegat Sea and winds through eight unique regions, each offering its own blend of nature, culture, and charm. Since opening, the Kattegattleden has become one of Europe’s premier long-distance bike paths, even earning the title of European Cycle Route of the Year in 2018.

Whether you’re cycling the full distance or exploring one stretch at a time, the Kattegattleden delivers a rewarding mix of seaside beauty, well-marked trails, and authentic Swedish hospitality. Here’s a rundown of what you need to know to plan and enjoy this unforgettable ride.

Getting There and Getting Started

Most cyclists begin their journey in Helsingborg, a well-connected city in southern Sweden that’s just a ferry ride from Denmark’s Helsingør. From here, riders can easily access the Kattegattleden via city bike paths. The trail ends in Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city, which also offers easy rail and air connections for your return journey.

One of the most appealing aspects of Kattegattleden is its flexibility. You can ride the entire trail over a week or two, or pick a shorter segment and use Sweden’s excellent rail network to return to your starting point—many regional trains along the west coast accommodate bicycles.

If you don’t want to bring your own bike, there are several rental services available along the route, and luggage transport can also be arranged through local operators and tour companies. For first-time visitors or those wanting a seamless experience, booking through a researrangör (travel operator) is a good option and often includes accommodation, luggage transport, maps, and more.

Kattegattleden cyclng route in Sweden

The Route: A Ride in Eight Sections

Kattegattleden is divided into eight official stretches, each with its own character and highlights:

• Helsingborg–Höganäs takes you past rolling countryside and through the artisan-rich Kullabygden region.

• Höganäs–Ängelholm features charming coastal villages and proximity to the Kullaberg Nature Reserve.

• Ängelholm–Båstad includes quiet rural paths and long sandy beaches.

• Båstad–Laholm–Halmstad brings you into Halland, with its golden dunes and stylish seaside towns.

• Halmstad–Falkenberg offers a breezy ride through pine forests and farmland with scenic picnic stops.

• Falkenberg–Varberg mixes natural beauty with cultural treasures like the Varberg Fortress.

• Varberg–Kungsbacka follows a stunning, cliff-edged coastline with panoramic sea views.

• Kungsbacka–Gothenburg brings the journey to a lively close with an urban-meets-nature mix.

Each segment is fully signposted, mostly car-free, and often runs alongside or near the sea, providing continuous views of Sweden’s wild and windswept coast.

Scenic Stops and Local Culture

Along the trail, the Swedish concept of fika—a coffee and pastry break—is fully embraced. From harbourside cafés to garden tearooms, there’s always a reason to pause and take it all in. In summer, seaside kiosks sell fresh seafood, and small-town restaurants offer seasonal menus focused on local ingredients.

Among the most memorable stops are Domsten, a peaceful harbour village just north of Helsingborg; Träslövsläge, a fishing village south of Varberg known for its traditional atmosphere and fish restaurants; and Bua Hamn, a tranquil marina town ideal for a relaxing ice cream stop on a summer afternoon. Meanwhile, the Kullaberg Nature Reserveoffers a chance to leave the saddle behind and explore on foot, with hiking trails and cliff-top views that stretch all the way to Denmark.

Planning Your Trip

You can order a printed bike map, inspiration folder, and even a collector’s cloth badge to help track your progress. GPX files for navigation are available for download online, and updated route information—including temporary detours or construction alerts—is provided via the official Kattegattleden site.

The trail is accessible and suitable for all levels of cyclists, including families. The infrastructure along the route is thoughtfully developed, with accommodations ranging from seaside hostels and B&Bs to luxury hotels and spa resorts. Wild camping is possible under Sweden’s Right of Public Access, but always check local guidelines and respect nature.

Kattegattleden cyclng route in Sweden

Getting Some Help

If you’d prefer to leave the planning to the pros, several tour operators offer carefully curated cycling holidays along the Kattegattleden. Packages range in length, theme, and price, with many including perks like bike rentals, luggage transfers, meals, and insider tips. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed coastal cruise or a more active multi-day journey, these operators—based in Sweden and across Europe and North America—make it easy to enjoy the trail stress-free. Just pick your style, and they’ll take care of the rest.

In Canada, check Freewheeling Adventures – extraordinary active holidays, Canada and in the USA VBT, USA and Biketours.com, USA.

To make cycling the Kattegattleden even more accessible, a range of local companies offer bike rentals and luggage transport services along the route. Whether you’re starting in Helsingborg or wrapping up in Gothenburg, you’ll find options for renting everything from sturdy touring bikes and e-bikes to kid-friendly models and trailers. Helmets, panniers, and accessories are also widely available.

Several providers—including Travelshop in Helsingborg, EverTrek, Åsa Marint & Fritid, Rent a Bike Halmstad, and others—also offer luggage transfers, allowing you to ride unencumbered while your bags are shuttled to your next destination. Many will even deliver and pick up your rental bikes at locations along the trail, making it easy to customize your journey and focus on the ride.

Celebrating 10 Years of Kattegattleden

In 2025, Kattegattleden marks its 10th anniversary, and it’s never been more popular with international cycle tourists. The route represents not just a journey across landscapes, but a ride through Swedish identity itself—its connection to nature, its coastal traditions, and its embrace of slow, sustainable travel.

Whether you’re a seasoned two-wheeled tourist or just want to tip your toe into long-distance cycling, Kattegattleden offers a welcoming and enriching experience.

Photos: https://kattegattleden.se/en.