A coastal town on Sweden's Baltic shore, with a 13th-century fortress and a large archipelago of 5,000 islands. Known for its annual rock music festival and sailing.
Västervik, a coastal town in southeastern Sweden, sits among 5,000 islands of the Tjust archipelago. You can climb the granite boulders at Kulbacken, swim from the sandy Breviksbadet beach, or take a mail boat to explore remote islands. In summer, folk musicians perform at the medieval Stegeholm castle ruins, while the modern Slottsholmen complex, built by ABBA's Björn Ulvaeus, adds contemporary architecture to the waterfront.
Getting Around the Tjust Archipelago
The archipelago's 5,000 islands stretch along the Baltic coast. Take the year-round mail boat to reach larger islands like Hasselö and Sladö. In summer, water taxis and rental boats give you access to smaller, uninhabited islands. Set up camp at designated spots and walk the marked hiking trails, where seals rest on rocks and sea eagles soar overhead.
Rock Climbing and Bouldering
Västervik's granite formations rank among Europe's top bouldering spots. Join international climbers at the annual Boulder Meet, with routes ranging from basic scrambles to challenging overhangs. Paddle a kayak through the interconnected lakes and coastal waters on the 30-kilometer route from inland waters to the Baltic Sea. Bike the trails at Karstorp recreational area or cycle along coastal paths with views across the archipelago.
Swimming and Beach Life
Walk from the town center to several swimming locations. Jump into the Baltic Sea from Myntbryggan dock at Slottsholmen. Spread your towel on Breviksbadet's sandy beach or swim from its platforms. At Västervik Resort, splash in outdoor pools or head inside to water slides, children's pools, and warm relaxation pools.
Cultural Sites and Museums
Walk through maritime exhibits and examine local artifacts at Västerviks Museum, where you'll find a working blacksmith's shop and an old quarry on the grounds. Watch brick-making demonstrations at Almviks Brickworks Museum. Explore the 12th-century tunnels and see mining equipment at Gladhammar Mines. Step into eight preserved 1740s boatmen's cottages along Båtsmansgränd alley to see how maritime workers lived.
Summer Events and Entertainment
Listen to Swedish folk musicians perform against the backdrop of Stegeholm castle ruins during July's Visfestival, running since 1966. The multi-day event includes both well-known performers and new talent. Throughout summer, concerts and food events fill the harbor area during Hamnplan Live. The Slottsholmen complex, opened in 2018, serves as a gathering spot with its waterfront restaurant and hotel.
