Discover Sweden's Brännö Island, a car-free haven with rich local customs and midsummer dances.
Gateway marina with cafes
A lively pier with dances, green living, old roots, and beautiful natural views.
Uninhabited island across a bridge
A quiet Swedish island reserve with many birds, Viking past, and no cars.
The small island of Brännö, part of the Southern Gothenburg Archipelago, is a place where salty sea air, traditional Swedish cottages, and an absence of cars offer a refreshing change of pace. A regular ferry service connects it to the mainland, making it easily accessible.
Brännö has a strong sense of community and adherence to local customs. Here, one can find the well-preserved Hälsövägen - the island's only road - and a collection of idyllic wooden houses, painted in traditional Swedish 'falu' red. The island's terrain is mostly flat, making it an ideal location for leisurely walks and bicycle rides. It also has two harbours, Husvik and Brännö Rödsten, which serve as the island's main entry and exit points, both of which are worth a visit.
A notable local event is the traditional midsummer dance held annually in the square by Brännö School. Here, locals and visitors alike gather to participate in traditional Swedish dances around the maypole, accompanied by live accordion music. This event is a testament to the island’s preservation of its cultural heritage.
Moreover, Brännö's modest size does not deter its wide variety of flora and fauna. From the common juniper to various species of orchids, Brännö is a haven for botany enthusiasts. Wildlife is also abundant, with common sightings of seals, sea eagles, and a variety of seabirds.
As for food, there are a few places where one can enjoy locally sourced food. The popular Brännö Värdshus is a charming restaurant offering a menu that showcases local produce, and the Brännö Bageri can make you happy with freshly baked pastries.
