Falkenberg, the Falcon Mountain in English, is a locality along the western coast of Sweden. Kattegat separates the 28.000 inhabitants from Denmark on the other side of the Danish Straits.
A Short History of Falkenberg
Written sources mention Falkenberg as early as the end of the 13th century. The area was at the time a part of Denmark. The local fortress, known as Falkenberg, was destroyed by the Swedes in the wars of the 15th century and was never rebuilt. Instead, the nearby marketplace inherited the name.
Falkenberg, together with the rest of the province of Halland, became Swedish in 1645 as a result of the peace treaty of Brömsebro. It is estimated that Falkenberg had around 200 inhabitants at the time, a population that would endure several fires in the early 18th century. The fires eventually resulted in a ban on thatched roofs.
Farming and fishing were for centuries the main occupations in the town. The harbor was extended in the 19th century and Falkenberg’s importance grew. An additional boost came with the railroad at the end of the century. As a matter of fact, the railroad ran straight through the place where the old fortress once stood. At the time Falkenberg’s population had exceeded 1.000 inhabitants.
Things to Do and See in Falkenberg
Beach activities along the coast, hikes along the shores of the river, or any other exploration of Falkenberg are within easy reach for visitors. This small town has a lot to offer, but it also provides easy access for excursions to larger towns such as Göteborg, Halmstad, and Varberg.
The Beaches Around Falkenberg
Many municipalities in Sweden brag about long sandy beaches. Falkenberg is one of these municipalities, but it also has something to show. In total, the beaches stretch more than 13 kilometres. The beaches include Olofsbo, Skrea, Ugglarp, and several more.
Tullbron
Tullbron, the customs bridge, is located in the center of Falkenberg and is one of the town’s most significant sights. The bridge was build in the 18th century and connects the center, located on the northern side of the river Ättran, with the southern side. The bridge, as its name indicates, served as a tollgate until 1914. Back then, visitors had to pay to visit the town.
Vallarna
Vallarna, or the mounds, are the southern shores of the river Ättran. The area includes walking trails such as Doktorspromenaden, a two-kilometer-long path opened in 1861 to improve the health of the population.
In addition there are several more outdoor activities here, especially the kids will enjoy the playground and a miniature zoo.
Falkenberg Fortress
The ruins of the Falkenberg Fortress are located at the southern shores of the river, close to the old bridge. The 13th-century fortress was destroyed in 1434 and it has since been further devastated by the scavenging of building material over the centuries and eventually by the construction of the railroad through the area. Today parts of a larger watchtower remain visible.
Grimsholmen Nature Reserve
Along the coast, about 7 kilometers south of Falkenberg, is the nature reserve Grimsholmen. The reserve covers 173 hectares, out of which 70 are land. The cliffs are known for the many birds that one can see here. In addition to nature, the area also includes several ancient and historical remains.
Falkenbergs Hembygdsmuseum
The old town of Falkenberg includes several wooden buildings and it stands in stark contrast to the more modern center. In its center is the St. Laurentius church and here is also the local heritage museum. The museum showcases the history of the town from its beginning up until the early 20th century.
Rådhustorget
Rådhustorget is the main square in the center of Falkenberg. The area is squared in by the town hall, shops, and restaurants.
Falkenbergs FF and Falcon Alkoholfri Arena
Falkenbergs FF is the local football club or soccer for any non-European reader. The team was founded in 1928 and is currently housing in Superettan, the second-tier league in Sweden. They have played in Allsvenskan, the first-tier league, for a total of five seasons. Most recently in 2020.
The team plays their home games at Falcon Alkoholfri Arena, named by a local beer brand. It is able to house 5.500 spectators, making it the 47th largest football arena in Sweden.
How to Get to Falkenberg
- Flights: The closest airport is Halmstad Airport (HAD) 44 kilometers away, with mostly domestic flights. There is also the larger Göteborg Landvetter Airport (GOT) 120 kilometers away, with both domestic and international flights.
- Car: Falkenberg is along the E6 between Göteborg and Halmstad.
- Train: Several train services have departures and arrivals in Varberg, including SJ and Öresundståg. Destinations include Göteborg, Halmstad, Helsingborg, and Malmö.
- Bus: Local and regional buses connect Falkenberg with the surrounding region.
The driving distance from 5 major Swedish cities, according to Google Maps:
- Stockholm – 493 kilometers (5h 50min)
- Gothenburg – 102 kilometers (1h 14min)
- Malmö – 175 kilometers (1h 58min)
- Linköping – 298 kilometers (3h 43min)
- Kiruna – 1679 kilometers (20h 9min)
Find out more about other destinations in Sweden by visiting our page Exploring Sweden
