Kobbungen Nature Reserve
Strömstad

Located on the Nordbytången peninsula beside Singlefjorden, close to the Norwegian border, Kobbungen is one of Strömstad’s quieter and more secluded nature experiences.

The landscape is sometimes steep and challenging, but those who reach the higher ground are rewarded with views towards the Hvaler archipelago, the Svinesund Bridge and the Norwegian mainland.

Windswept pines and open rocks

Much of Nordbytången is covered by rocky pine forest. The slow-growing trees have been shaped by the wind, thin soil and exposed coastal setting. Between them lie open rocks covered with lichens, silver-grey dead pines and fallen trunks.

The old and dead trees are an important part of the forest. They provide food and shelter for insects, fungi, lichens and birds, including black woodpeckers and great spotted woodpeckers.

The green ravine of Kobbungsbäcken

In the southern part of the reserve, Kobbungsbäcken flows through a deep ravine cut into the Bohuslän granite.

The sheltered environment feels very different from the exposed rocks above. Spruce, alder and other deciduous trees grow in the damp soil, creating ideal conditions for ferns, mosses, lichens and fungi.

In some places the stream moves slowly; in others, it tumbles over stones on its way towards the sea. During autumn, you may even be lucky enough to see sea trout making their way upstream to spawn.

A shallow bay full of life

The sheltered bay of Kobbungen is an important nursery for marine life.

Mussels, snails, crustaceans, worms and other small animals provide food for fish and birds. Young flatfish spend their first years in the shallow water, while oystercatchers, ospreys and other coastal birds can be seen around the bay.

Fishing is not permitted in the bay.

Walking in Kobbungen

Several small marked paths lead through the reserve, but this is not an easy or surfaced walking area.

The terrain includes steep slopes, deep ravines, exposed rocks and sections with dense trees and shrubs. Progress may be slower than expected, even though the reserve itself is relatively small.

Wear sturdy footwear with a good grip and take extra care when the ground is wet. The paths are not suitable for pushchairs or visitors looking for an accessible, even walking route.

If you make your way to the top of the peninsula, take time to stop and enjoy the view across Singlefjorden and towards the islands of Hvaler.

Download the Kobbungen reserve leaflet and map.

Getting here

Kobbungen is located beside the village of Lervik in the Svinesund area, around 20 kilometres north of central Strömstad.

By car

From the E6, follow the signs towards Nordby Shoppingcenter and then continue towards Lervik. In Lervik, there is a reserve entrance with an information board and a small visitor car park with six spaces.

Parking is limited, so please have an alternative plan if the car park is full. Do not park in a way that blocks local roads, entrances or access for residents.

Find Kobbungen Nature Reserve on Google Maps.

By public transport

Buses run from Strömstad to Nordby Shoppingcenter but do not continue all the way to the nature reserve. If you are travelling without a car, you will need to plan the final part of your journey in advance.

Use the Västtrafik journey planner to find current routes and departure times.

Good to know

• The reserve has several marked paths, but the terrain can be steep, uneven and difficult to navigate.

• Visitor parking is limited to six spaces.

• Facilities are limited, so bring drinking water and anything else you may need.

• Take all litter home with you.

• Fires are only permitted in places specifically designated by the reserve manager.

• Caravans and motorhomes may not be set up in the visitor car park.

• Do not disturb wildlife or damage plants, trees or other vegetation.

• Flowers, mushrooms and berries may be picked for personal use.

• Fishing is not permitted in the bay of Kobbungen.

• Always follow the information and regulations displayed at the reserve entrance.

For current information and complete regulations, visit the official Kobbungen Nature Reserve page.

Make a day of it

Combine your visit with a stop at the Svinesund Bridges, where dramatic bridges, border history and views across the fjord bring Sweden and Norway together.