Ursholmen – Lighthouse Island, Seals and Outer Archipelago in Kosterhavet
Ursholmen is one of the most distinctive places in Kosterhavet National Park – a rugged island environment at the outer edge of the archipelago, facing Skagerrak and the open sea. Known for its twin lighthouses, bare granite rocks, wide horizons and proximity to the seals’ natural habitats, Ursholmen offers a rare combination of coastal nature, maritime history and true outer archipelago atmosphere.
With Selin Charter, you can experience Ursholmen as one of the main highlights of our seal safari from Strömstad and Resö. The boat tour travels through Kosterhavet via the Koster Islands, South Koster and North Koster before continuing towards Ursholmen and the seal areas of the outer archipelago.
What Is Ursholmen?
Ursholmen is located in the outer archipelago of Kosterhavet, west of Strömstad and the Koster Islands. The island is best known for its lighthouse station, exposed granite landscape and position far out towards the open sea. For many visitors, Ursholmen is one of the most memorable places in northern Bohuslän because the nature here feels more remote, quiet and sea-facing than in many other parts of the archipelago.
Ursholmen consists of two islands: Outer Ursholmen and Inner Ursholmen. Between them lies a narrow sound, and from the lighthouse area you get wide views over Kosterhavet, North Koster, South Koster and the sea towards Skagerrak. This is a destination for visitors who want more than a standard boat trip. Here, nature, history, seals and the atmosphere of Bohuslän’s outermost coastline come together in one place.
Ursholmen is located in the outer archipelago of Kosterhavet, west of Strömstad and the Koster Islands. The island is best known for its lighthouse station, exposed granite landscape and position far out towards the open sea. For many visitors, Ursholmen is one of the most memorable places in northern Bohuslän because the nature here feels more remote, quiet and sea-facing than in many other parts of the archipelago.
Ursholmen consists of two islands: Outer Ursholmen and Inner Ursholmen. Between them lies a narrow sound, and from the lighthouse area you get wide views over Kosterhavet, North Koster, South Koster and the sea towards Skagerrak. This is a destination for visitors who want more than a standard boat trip. Here, nature, history, seals and the atmosphere of Bohuslän’s outermost coastline come together in one place.
Ursholmen is also closely connected to Kosterhavet National Park, Sweden’s first marine national park, established in 2009.
Ursholmen Lighthouse – Sweden’s Westernmost Lighthouse Site
Ursholmen’s lighthouse station is the island’s strongest landmark. The twin lighthouses were first lit on November 13, 1891, to guide seafarers through the difficult waters and reefs outside Koster. Today, the lighthouses are unmanned, but the buildings remain and still shape the character of the island.
Visit West Sweden describes Ursholmen’s lighthouses as 13 metres high and located 33 metres above sea level. The site is also described as the first lighthouse in Sweden built from concrete.
When you step ashore on Ursholmen, you can follow the path from the harbour up towards the lighthouse area. Here you meet open rocks, sea views, old lighthouse buildings and a strong sense of maritime history. The lighthouse station makes Ursholmen more than just a stop on a boat tour. It is a place where natural scenery, cultural heritage and the presence of the sea meet.
Ursholmen’s lighthouse station is the island’s strongest landmark. The twin lighthouses were first lit on November 13, 1891, to guide seafarers through the difficult waters and reefs outside Koster. Today, the lighthouses are unmanned, but the buildings remain and still shape the character of the island.
Visit West Sweden describes Ursholmen’s lighthouses as 13 metres high and located 33 metres above sea level. The site is also described as the first lighthouse in Sweden built from concrete.
When you step ashore on Ursholmen, you can follow the path from the harbour up towards the lighthouse area. Here you meet open rocks, sea views, old lighthouse buildings and a strong sense of maritime history. The lighthouse station makes Ursholmen more than just a stop on a boat tour. It is a place where natural scenery, cultural heritage and the presence of the sea meet.
Seal Safari to Ursholmen with Selin Charter
Ursholmen is one of the most important stops on Selin Charter’s seal safari in Kosterhavet. The tour is designed for visitors who want to experience harbour seals, the Koster Islands and Bohuslän’s outer archipelago from the sea.
The seal safari departs from Strömstad and Resö. From Strömstad, the tour starts at Norra Hamnen. From Resö, it is especially convenient for guests staying on Resö, near Resö Camping, Kyrkvikens Camping or in northern Bohuslän. Selin Charter’s current English seal safari page describes the route as travelling through Kosterhavet National Park, past South Koster and North Koster, towards Ursholmen, with time ashore on the island.
In the waters around Ursholmen, there are good opportunities to see seals in their natural environment. They may be resting on the rocks, swimming in the water or appearing around the outer skerries. Since seals are wild animals, sightings can never be guaranteed – but this is also what makes the experience genuine.
Ursholmen is one of the most important stops on Selin Charter’s seal safari in Kosterhavet. The tour is designed for visitors who want to experience harbour seals, the Koster Islands and Bohuslän’s outer archipelago from the sea.
The seal safari departs from Strömstad and Resö. From Strömstad, the tour starts at Norra Hamnen. From Resö, it is especially convenient for guests staying on Resö, near Resö Camping, Kyrkvikens Camping or in northern Bohuslän. Selin Charter’s current English seal safari page describes the route as travelling through Kosterhavet National Park, past South Koster and North Koster, towards Ursholmen, with time ashore on the island.
In the waters around Ursholmen, there are good opportunities to see seals in their natural environment. They may be resting on the rocks, swimming in the water or appearing around the outer skerries. Since seals are wild animals, sightings can never be guaranteed – but this is also what makes the experience genuine.
Route from Strömstad and Resö via the Koster Islands
A key part of the experience is the journey to Ursholmen. The seal safari connects several of the most interesting places in Kosterhavet and lets you see how the landscape changes from sheltered archipelago to open sea.
From Strömstad, the tour departs from Norra Hamnen and continues through the archipelago towards the Koster Islands. During the journey, the coast gradually opens up and the scenery shifts from protected island waters to the more exposed outer archipelago.
From Resö, Ursholmen and Kosterhavet become easily accessible for visitors staying south of Strömstad or spending their holiday in Tanum, Resö, Grebbestad or the surrounding area.
The route connects several important destinations in Selin Charter’s Kosterhavet structure:
Route point Role in the experience Strömstad Main departure point and gateway to Kosterhavet Resö Convenient departure point for guests in northern Bohuslän Koster Islands Central archipelago destination South Koster, Ekenäs and Långagärde Linked to Naturum Kosterhavet and family-friendly island visits North Koster, Västra Bryggan Rugged nature, open views and outer archipelago atmosphere Ursholmen Lighthouse site, seal areas and the outermost destination of the tour
This makes Ursholmen a natural destination node within the seal safari. If you want to book the actual tour, the main booking should be made through Selin Charter’s seal safari page.
A key part of the experience is the journey to Ursholmen. The seal safari connects several of the most interesting places in Kosterhavet and lets you see how the landscape changes from sheltered archipelago to open sea.
From Strömstad, the tour departs from Norra Hamnen and continues through the archipelago towards the Koster Islands. During the journey, the coast gradually opens up and the scenery shifts from protected island waters to the more exposed outer archipelago.
From Resö, Ursholmen and Kosterhavet become easily accessible for visitors staying south of Strömstad or spending their holiday in Tanum, Resö, Grebbestad or the surrounding area.
The route connects several important destinations in Selin Charter’s Kosterhavet structure:
| Route point | Role in the experience |
|---|---|
| Strömstad | Main departure point and gateway to Kosterhavet |
| Resö | Convenient departure point for guests in northern Bohuslän |
| Koster Islands | Central archipelago destination |
| South Koster, Ekenäs and Långagärde | Linked to Naturum Kosterhavet and family-friendly island visits |
| North Koster, Västra Bryggan | Rugged nature, open views and outer archipelago atmosphere |
| Ursholmen | Lighthouse site, seal areas and the outermost destination of the tour |
This makes Ursholmen a natural destination node within the seal safari. If you want to book the actual tour, the main booking should be made through Selin Charter’s seal safari page.
Koster Islands and Ursholmen Boat Tour
Ursholmen should be seen as part of a larger Kosterhavet experience. The seal safari connects South Koster, North Koster and Ursholmen in one route where each place has its own character.
South Koster is the part of the Koster Islands most closely connected to Naturum Kosterhavet. It is especially relevant for visitors who want to combine an archipelago trip with a family-friendly island visit and knowledge about Sweden’s marine national park.
North Koster has a more rugged and open character, with cliffs, viewpoints and a stronger feeling of the outer archipelago. As the boat continues towards Ursholmen, the sea becomes more present and the landscape more exposed.
Ursholmen is the natural final highlight of the route – the place where the lighthouse environment, the seals’ sea area and the outer archipelago feeling meet.
Ursholmen should be seen as part of a larger Kosterhavet experience. The seal safari connects South Koster, North Koster and Ursholmen in one route where each place has its own character.
South Koster is the part of the Koster Islands most closely connected to Naturum Kosterhavet. It is especially relevant for visitors who want to combine an archipelago trip with a family-friendly island visit and knowledge about Sweden’s marine national park.
North Koster has a more rugged and open character, with cliffs, viewpoints and a stronger feeling of the outer archipelago. As the boat continues towards Ursholmen, the sea becomes more present and the landscape more exposed.
Ursholmen is the natural final highlight of the route – the place where the lighthouse environment, the seals’ sea area and the outer archipelago feeling meet.
Good to Know Before Visiting Ursholmen
Ursholmen is an outer archipelago destination. This means that weather, wind and sea conditions are always part of the experience. Dress according to the weather, and wear comfortable shoes if you want to walk up towards the lighthouse area.
Because Ursholmen is part of a sensitive coastal environment, visitors should show respect for nature, wildlife and other guests. Stay on natural or marked paths where possible, do not leave litter, and keep a respectful distance from seals and birds.
On Selin Charter’s seal safari, food and drinks may be available to pre-order according to the information on the booking page. This can make the tour easier and more enjoyable for families, groups and visitors who want a more complete day trip. Selin Charter’s current seal safari information also describes options such as sandwiches and refreshments on board.
For up-to-date information about departures, prices, times and booking, always check Selin Charter’s seal safari page.
Ursholmen is an outer archipelago destination. This means that weather, wind and sea conditions are always part of the experience. Dress according to the weather, and wear comfortable shoes if you want to walk up towards the lighthouse area.
Because Ursholmen is part of a sensitive coastal environment, visitors should show respect for nature, wildlife and other guests. Stay on natural or marked paths where possible, do not leave litter, and keep a respectful distance from seals and birds.
On Selin Charter’s seal safari, food and drinks may be available to pre-order according to the information on the booking page. This can make the tour easier and more enjoyable for families, groups and visitors who want a more complete day trip. Selin Charter’s current seal safari information also describes options such as sandwiches and refreshments on board.
For up-to-date information about departures, prices, times and booking, always check Selin Charter’s seal safari page.
What Can You Experience on Ursholmen?
A stop on Ursholmen gives you time to experience the island at a calmer pace. This is not a destination with large attractions or commercial environments. The experience is about nature, sea, history, silence and views. On Ursholmen, you can:
- walk up towards the lighthouse station
- see the historic lighthouse towers
- experience wide views over Kosterhavet
- photograph rocks, sea and lighthouse buildings
- look for birds and seals
- take a break in the outer Koster archipelago
- experience one of Bohuslän’s most sea-facing environments
For families, Ursholmen is often exciting because the tour combines a boat journey, seal watching, landing on an island and exploring a historic place. For nature lovers, the island shows a more exposed and remote side of Kosterhavet than the more frequently visited areas around the Koster Islands.
For groups, companies and coach travellers, Ursholmen can also become a memorable part of a larger archipelago programme with boat tour, guiding, food and coastal scenery.
Who's the Ursholmen Boat Tour Suitable For?
Families
For families with children, the tour combines boat travel, seals, an island stop and a nature experience. It feels adventurous while still being organised and easy to follow.
Visitors in Strömstad
For visitors looking for the best things to do in Strömstad, the seal safari to Ursholmen is a clear and convenient way to experience Kosterhavet without arranging a private boat.
Guests on Resö
For visitors looking for the best activity near Resö, the departure from Resö is a smooth way to reach the Koster Islands, the seal areas and Ursholmen.
Nature Lovers
Ursholmen gives a strong feeling of outer archipelago, open sea, birdlife, seals, cliffs and weather-shaped coastal nature.
Norwegian visitors
For visitors from Norway, Strömstad, Resö and northern Bohuslän are accessible starting points for an archipelago experience close to the border.
Groups and companies
For groups, Ursholmen can become a memorable stop in a larger archipelago day with boat, food, guiding and shared experiences.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Ursholmen
Where is Ursholmen?
Ursholmen is located in the outer archipelago of Kosterhavet, west of Strömstad and the Koster Islands. The island is known for its lighthouse station, open rocks and position far out towards Skagerrak.
How do you get to Ursholmen?
You reach Ursholmen by boat. With Selin Charter, you visit Ursholmen as part of the seal safari in Kosterhavet, with departures from Strömstad and Resö.
Can you travel to Ursholmen from Strömstad?
Yes. Selin Charter’s seal safari departs from Norra Hamnen in Strömstad and travels through Kosterhavet, past the Koster Islands and onwards towards Ursholmen according to the current timetable.
Can you travel to Ursholmen from Resö?
Yes. The seal safari also has departures from Resö, which is convenient for visitors staying on Resö, near Resö Camping, Kyrkvikens Camping or in northern Bohuslän.
Does the boat stop on Ursholmen?
Yes. On Selin Charter’s seal safari, the boat stops at Ursholmen so visitors can go ashore and experience the lighthouse area, the views and the outer archipelago environment. Selin Charter’s current information describes approximately 1.5 hours on Ursholmen.
Can you see seals near Ursholmen?
The waters around Ursholmen and Kosterhavet are strongly associated with seal safari. There are good opportunities to see seals, but since they are wild animals, sightings can never be guaranteed.
What is there to see on Ursholmen?
On Ursholmen, you can see the lighthouse station, granite cliffs, sea views, old buildings, a small museum and the outer archipelago landscape. Many visitors appreciate the combination of nature, history and open sea.
Is Ursholmen part of Kosterhavet National Park?
Ursholmen is connected to Kosterhavet National Park and is presented by Sweden’s national parks as one of the experiences in the park. The national park itself is Sweden’s first marine national park.
Is the tour to Ursholmen suitable for families?
Yes. The tour is suitable for families who want to combine a boat trip, seals, nature and a stop at a historic lighthouse island. Clothes for the weather and comfortable shoes are recommended.
Do you need to book in advance?
Yes. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the summer season and for families or groups who want to secure their places.