"The Departure Point: Gothenburg, Sweden Sweden’s second-largest city, with nearly half a million residents, Gothenburg pulses with energy. Indeed, it has all the cosmopolitan trappings you’d desire, including Michelin-starred restaurants, a homegrown music scene, and gracious public spaces. Yet nature is also readily accessible. Gothenburg is a canal city, with extensive bike lanes, forested parkland, and a waterfront that faces an enchanting archipelago of largely untouched, wildlife-rich islands. The fresh fish from these waters play a starring role in local cuisine. Just how revered is seafood? One of the main market halls, Feskekörka, translates to “fish church” in Swedish—and resembles one too. It draws both tourists and local shoppers alike. Interior design is another Swedish point of pride, and there’s no shortage of places to browse in Gothenburg. Some of the finest home design shops are in the charming Haga neighborhood, which also has unique boutiques selling specialty items like tea, spices, and olive oil. In summer, there are attractive outdoor terraces where you can enjoy a retail break. While there’s clearly plenty to keep you entertained in Gothenburg, the city also makes a great jumping off point for exploring all that West Sweden has to offer. The following recommended drives offer something to appeal to every type of traveler. Sponsored by Visit Sweden"

"The Road Trip for Adventurers: Koster Islands Gothenburg is a big city that embraces its natural surroundings: rocky shoreline, forests, and, of course, the coast. There are countless ways to take to the water, and Slottsskogen Park’s woodland trails let you glimpse distinctive Swedish wildlife (deer, moose, tawny owls) within city limits. Still, to really seek out adventure, you’ll want to devote some time to exploring the Bohuslän archipelago, whose 8,000 islands stretch north to the border with Norway. From the harbor at Strömstad, a ferry will bring you to the Koster Islands—an enchanting nature reserve whose surrounding waters have been declared Sweden’s first (and only) marine national park. You can rent kayaks to explore the rocky islands, skerries, and scenic waterways on a self-guided or expert-led excursion. There are no strong currents or tidal waters, and the water is warm during the summer and early autumn. Paddling is available for all levels of experience: calm, sheltered waters in areas like the Fjällbacka archipelago for first-time kayakers, as well as exposed deep-sea stretches for more experienced adventurists. You could also join the parade of yachts, canoes, kayaks, and tour boats plying Dalsland Canal, which connects the highest density of lakes in all of Sweden . The lack of cars makes the Koster Islands themselves ideal for exploring by bike, and even walking feels like an adventure when you’re traipsing through heather-clad moors and past fields of ancient stones. Opportunities for fishing trips, hiking, and rock climbing also abound. Sponsored by Visit Sweden"

"The Road Trip for Foodies: Smögen Gothenburg is making waves for its locavore dining scene, notably Michelin-starred seafood spot Sjömagasinet and Norda Bar & Grill, which won the world’s best bartender award in 2015. Norda also showcases the talents of chef Marcus Samuelsson, who was born in Ethiopia, grew up in Gothenburg, and now lives in New York City . He spent childhood summers in Smögen, a postcard-perfect fishing village that’s well worth a detour. First, fuel up the Swedish way: with a fika (coffee break), preferably at Café Husaren, famous for its oh-so-generously-sized cinnamon buns. Then hit the road; it’s about a 90-minute straight shot up the west coast to Smögen. Brightly painted wooden homes, restaurants, and shops line the small town’s pier, and a fish market waits at one end. You can make an easy, satisfying meal out of fresh prawns in a paper cone and a cold beer. After all, the cool, pristine water here in the Bohuslän archipelago is rich in minerals and makes West Sweden practically unrivaled as a source for quality seafood. One of the most authentic ways to experience the region’s bounty is by joining local fishermen on a seafood safari. Don a windbreaker, and spend an invigorating afternoon hunting for crayfish or lobster, raking oysters, or visiting mussel farms. You’ll learn to prepare your catch, perhaps over an open fire, and savor dinner in a picturesque setting. Smögen is just one of many coastal villages that host these shellfish outings in spring, summer, and autumn. Sponsored by Visit Sweden"

"The Road Trip for History Buffs: Marstrand Gothenburg has tales to tell of pirates and smugglers, battles against the Danes and Norwegians, and emigrants bound for America. The Gothenburg City Museum is a great place to get a crash course, and you’ll encounter history as you stroll around, from the pedestrian-only streets with timber buildings to the moat and canals. The Göta Canal, specifically, dates to the early 1800s and extends all the way to Stockholm . You can hop aboard a historic cruise along the canal or cycle or walk along its banks. There are 21 marinas and two notable museums along the route. For another perspective on West Sweden’s past, seek out the island of Marstrand, a popular summer getaway just 45 minutes’ drive from Gothenburg. A fortress still stands guard over the lively harbor, which was founded by a Norwegian king and also passed under Danish rule. Marstrand was once a free port, where trading ships from all corners of the globe converged and freedom of religion flourished; Sweden’s first synagogue was founded here in the late 1700s. Although many compelling sites will compete for your attention, consider setting aside some time for a soak, whether you head to the beach or to the spa. The hotel Marstrands Havshotell features outdoor hot tubs with panoramic views as well as a pool lined with reflexology-inducing pebbles. Sponsored by Visit Sweden"

"The Road Trip for Design Fans: Tjörn Sightseeing in Gothenburg often begins along Avenyn, a leafy boulevard where many of the finest museums are clustered—including the Röhsska, which showcases 50,000 home design and haute couture objects. The nearby Gothenburg Museum of Art boasts a significant collection of Nordic and international masterpieces, including works by the impressionists Rembrandt and Monet and by Swedish painter Anders Zorn. The Gothenburg Opera House and the train station are notable architectural landmarks as is the grittier Röda Sten art center, located in a graffitied former boiler plant along the harbor. It hosts contemporary exhibits as well as live music, stand-up comedy, and other events. The archipelago just beyond Gothenburg has inspired generations of artists with its coves, secluded beaches, and evocative lighting. Why not head about an hour north from Gothenburg to the source, namely, the picturesque island of Tjörn? Pull over at the Nordic Watercolor Museum in Skärhamn, where rotating exhibitions have featured world-class talents like Swedish painter Birgit Broms and Salvador Dalí and even original drawings from Walt Disney Animation Studios. Break for lunch at the museum restaurant before driving on to Pilane Sculpture Park in Klövedal. It’s a wonderfully West Swedish kind of place, where you can admire striking modern installations alongside sheep that graze freely in the spectacular natural setting. Sponsored by Visit Sweden"