This Swedish archipelago island centers around its working harbor at Klåva, with swimming spots, nature trails, and a fishing museum explaining local maritime history.
Hönö sits in the northern Gothenburg archipelago, easily reached from the city. This island presents a Swedish island experience centered around its working harbor, Hönö Klåva. You find places to swim like Hästen and Jungfruviken, the Ersdalen nature reserve for walks, and the Fishing Museum explaining local fishing history. Ferries connect you directly. You can swim in the sea and eat fresh seafood.
Getting to Hönö by Public Transport and Car
Reaching Hönö is straightforward using Gothenburg's public transport. Take the Röd bus line from Gothenburg Central Station (Drottningtorget) towards Lilla Varholmen. Transfer at Lilla Varholmen to the free yellow car ferry for the 12-13 minute crossing to Hönö. Bus number 2 connects the ferry terminal to Hönö Klåva harbor once you arrive. A single Västtrafik ticket covers the entire bus and ferry journey. During summer, the direct Kungsö passenger boat operates from Gothenburg's Stenpiren waterfront to Hönö Klåva. This boat ride gives you views of the archipelago. Driving is also an option. Follow road 155 to Lilla Varholmen and take the free car ferry to Hönö. You can then drive to Klåva.
Walking and Biking in Ersdalen Nature Reserve
Ersdalen nature reserve covers Hönö's northwestern section. Walk trails through forests and across granite outcrops. These outcrops have meadows and heather. You get views over the surrounding archipelago from paths here. Rö-Berget provides a particularly good vantage point. For a longer trek, sections of the Gothenburg Archipelago Trail (Skärgårdsleden) cross Hönö. This trail connects Hönö to neighboring islands like Öckerö and Hälsö via bridges. It follows the island's rocky coastline and passes coastal plants. Start at the Hönö ferry terminal, heading south towards Fötö bridge and then west along the coast towards Ersdalen. Begin directly at Ersdalen for a shorter loop back to Klåva. Biking is a good way to explore the island. Rentals are available on Hönö and nearby islands.
Swimming Spots and Saunas on Hönö
Hönö's coastline has many places for swimming in the sea. Designated bathing areas include Hästen on the west coast. Lapposand near Bådevi harbor is another spot. Jungfruviken has a large lawn, suitable for families. Halse Långe near the Fötö bridge is also accessible. Klåva Fyr allows swimming directly from rocks using a ladder. Water temperatures in summer usually range from 17-20°C (62-68°F). Beyond these official spots, paths along the west coast often lead to small coves good for swimming. You can also use a sauna. Options include the Långholmen sauna on a small island opposite Klåva. Getting there requires a boat transfer. The Havskatten hotel in Hönö Röd has a sauna and bubble pool.
Fishing History and Boat Tours
Fishing defined Hönö's past and is still important. Visit the Fiskemuseet (Fishing Museum) in Hönö Klåva to learn about this. The museum displays old fishing boats, equipment, ship name signs, and details about the island's large former fishing fleet. It's open Tuesday to Friday. For a direct experience, join a boat trip. Kastor Boat Trips operates from Västra Vägen 15 in Klåva. They offer crab tours (krabbtur), mackerel fishing trips, seal safaris, and excursions to Vinga island. Hönö Båtturer also runs guided seal safaris and trips to Vinga. Vinga island has a 29-meter lighthouse and links to Swedish troubadour Evert Taube. These tours explain the local marine environment and history.
Visiting Nearby Islands and Viewpoints
Hönö works well as a base for seeing the wider northern archipelago. Bridges connect Hönö to Fötö and Hälsö. This allows easy cycling or walking access. Ferries connect to Björkö and other islands. Check local ferry schedules to plan your day. For wide views without leaving Hönö, go to the Hönö Vattentorn (water tower). A short walk from Hönö Klåva, this viewpoint looks over the town and the archipelago. Vinga island, reached by tour boat, gives a different perspective. It holds historical importance as a western outpost.
Seafood and Hönö Klåva Harbor
Hönö Klåva harbor is the center of island life. Seafood here is very fresh, landed daily by local boats. You find havskräftor (langoustine), blåmusslor (blue mussels), and räkor (shrimp). These are often served simply with lemon and mayonnaise or in a traditional fiskesuppe (fish soup). The harbor area has several restaurants and cafes. Choices range from seafood-focused places to pizzerias and bakeries. Eating a prawn sandwich on local bagebrö wheat bread is a typical archipelago experience. Klåva also has shops selling clothing, local foods, art, and souvenirs.
Accommodation and Visiting Tips
Hönö provides places to stay, mainly around Klåva and Hönö Röd. Options include hotels like Skärgårdshotellet Hönö and Havskatten, plus cabin rentals. The island is accessible and enjoyable year-round. Late spring to early autumn (May-September) has the warmest weather for swimming. Many restaurants and shops operate throughout the year. Always check opening times, especially outside peak season. Remember that Ersdalen is a nature reserve. Camping is prohibited on Hönö. Respect private property when exploring.
