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The High Coast
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Landmark
The High Coast (Höga Kusten) on Sweden's Baltic shore is a geologically unique area, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000. The region is famous for having the world's highest post-glacial rebound, with the land rising approximately 286 meters since the last ice age. This dynamic landscape presents a spectacular panorama of steep granite cliffs, deep inlets, and numerous islands. A key feature is Skuleberget mountain, which rises directly from the sea and provides hikers expansive views over the Bothnian Sea. Skuleskogen National Park lies at the heart of the region, preserving ancient forests and the famous Slåttdalsskrevan, a dramatic 200-meter-long crevice in the bedrock. In addition to its natural wonders, the High Coast is known for cultural traditions such as the production of surströmming (fermented herring) in the small fishing villages scattered along the coastline.
- Location: Sweden
- Nearby: Norrfällsviken (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -4 | -2 | 2 | 7 | 12 | 16 | 15 | 11 | 6 | 2 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 58 | 42 | 40 | 44 | 57 | 53 | 69 | 90 | 72 | 80 | 65 | 67 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The High Coast area is a freely accessible outdoor natural area. You can explore the landscape at any time, with numerous hiking trails and viewpoints without entry restrictions.
Typical hours
The area is open around the clock as it is an open natural landscape. Some visitor centers and parking lots, however, have seasonal opening hours.
Photography
The High Coast landscape is a paradise for photographers, especially at sunrise and sunset. A tripod and wide-angle lens are recommended to capture the vastness.
Time needed
For a first impression, 2 to 3 hours are enough. Those who want to take longer hikes should allow half a day or a full day.
Combine with
The High Coast combines perfectly with a visit to the High Coast Bridge. Skuleskogen National Park with its bizarre rock formations is also in the region.
Getting there
The region is best accessed by car via the E4. There are several signposted parking lots at the trailheads; public transport is limited.
Insider tip
Visit the Naturum Höga Kusten visitor centre before your hike for maps and current information. Sturdy footwear is essential on the rocky trails.
Geography
Facts
- The maximum land uplift recorded is 286 meters above current sea level.
- The area was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000.
- The land continues to rise at a rate of approximately 8 mm per year.
- Slåttdalsskrevan is a 200-meter-long and 40-meter-deep rock crevice.
- Skuleberget features the highest paleocoastline ever measured in the world.
- The region stretches for about 100 kilometers along the Gulf of Bothnia.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town The High Coast (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the High Coast a World Heritage site?
Because of the world's highest post-glacial land uplift.
What is the most famous hiking trail?
The Höga Kustenleden is 128 km long and traverses the entire region.
Which mountain offers the best view?
Skuleberget gives a panoramic view over the sea and the islands.
What is Slåttdalsskrevan?
An impressive, narrow crevice in the Skuleskogen National Park.
How far is it from Stockholm?
About 450 km north, roughly a 5-hour drive.
The High Coast: where is it located?
The High Coast is located in Sweden.
The High Coast: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
The High Coast: why is it worth visiting?
The High Coast (Höga Kusten) on Sweden's Baltic shore is a geologically unique area, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000.
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