Those who choose Sannäs will find a place shaped by coastal nature and architectural heritage. The Sannäs Fjord is part of a protected coastal area; at the same time, the village is distinguished by its continuous stretch of historic wooden buildings. A circular hiking trail along old stonecutters’ paths, the bathing area with its sandy beach and diving tower, and guest berths in the fjord add to these two facets. When planning your trip, it helps to decide what matters most to you: nature, local history, a walk, swimming or arriving by boat.
Fjord and coastal nature
The Tanumskusten III protected area includes the Sannäs Fjord; its undeveloped shores are among the most valuable parts of the Tanum coast. The fjord is a spawning and nursery area for many fish species. The coast is therefore more than a scenic feature: the fjord also has an ecological role as a habitat for fish during important stages of their development. Those who choose coastal villages for their natural significance can appreciate both the undeveloped character of the shore and the ecological role of the fjord in Sannäs.
A cohesive village scene
Sannäs is considered a particularly valuable cultural environment because it clearly reflects a Bohuslän coastal community, especially during the 19th and 20th centuries. Its defining feature is the continuous stretch of 19th-century wooden buildings: light-coloured façades, red tile roofs and long sides facing the water. This architectural style is unusual in the region. What matters is how these features come together in the existing buildings, creating a cohesive village scene rather than an impression shaped only by individual historic houses. Visitors interested in the history of small coastal communities will find a tangible architectural introduction to Sannäs here.
The stone industry and the Stenhuggarstigen trail
The stone industry is also part of the village’s history. Stone is still worked in Sannäs today through modern processing, continuing the connection with the stone industry in a new form. The Stenhuggarstigen circular hiking trail offers a different perspective. It is about 5.5 kilometres long, follows old stonecutters’ paths and horse tracks, and passes through easy-to-walk terrain. The trail starts at a long-term car park just south of Sannäs. Modern processing and old paths thus offer a view of both the present-day and historic sides of the stone industry.
Bathing area with sandy beach
The Sannäs bathing area offers a different focus from the hiking route. It has a sandy beach, and you can jump into the water from a diving tower. Those who prefer swimming to a walk will find a clear contrast to the Stenhuggarstigen trail: the beach and jumping into the water are the main attractions at the bathing area, while the hiking trail is all about following old paths. This gives you two different ways to enjoy the outdoors to consider when choosing where to spend your time.
Guest berths in the Sannäs Fjord
For visitors arriving by boat, the harbour information dated 16 May 2023 lists ten guest berths on the outer side of the breakwater in the Sannäs Fjord. Berth information may change, so check the latest details before planning to arrive by boat. If you are planning to arrive by water, this is a practical point to consider when planning your trip, alongside the options for walking and visiting the bathing area.
For the wider travel overview: Tanumshede.
