Kosterhavet National Park
Västra Götalands län
Kosterhavet National Park, established in 2009, is Sweden's first marine national park, located off the Bohuslän coast in Västra Götalands län. It encompasses a vast marine area of nearly 39,000 hectares around the Koster Islands archipelago, bordering Norway's Ytre Hvaler National Park. The park is characterized by the meeting of brackish Baltic Sea water and salty Atlantic currents, fostering a rich biodiversity including one of Sweden's two coral reefs. The underwater topography features deep trenches like the 247-meter-deep Kosterfjord, which supports diverse marine habitats. The mild coastal climate and high salinity create favorable conditions for numerous rare species and biotopes. The area also hosts significant populations of seabirds and seals. While fishing is permitted under strict regulations to preserve the environment, the park attracts around 90,000 visitors annually, drawn by its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The Koster Islands themselves have archaeological traces dating back to the late Stone Age or early Bronze Age, highlighting the area's long human connection primarily through fishing. The park's name, coined in 2006, reflects the rich fishing grounds historically important to the region.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Kosterhavet National Park is during the warmer months when the weather is mild and marine life is most active. Visitors should consider booking boat tours or guided excursions in advance, especially during peak season. Fishing is allowed but regulated, so check local rules and obtain necessary permits. The park's visitor centers provide valuable information on trails, wildlife, and conservation efforts. Bring appropriate gear for exploring both land and sea environments, and respect protected areas to help preserve the park's unique ecosystems.
Faits intéressants
- •Kosterhavet National Park contains one of only two coral reefs in Sweden, a rare marine habitat in the region.
- •The park includes Sweden's westernmost point at the skerry Stora Drammen.
- •Kosterfjorden, a trench within the park, reaches depths of about 247 meters, significantly deeper than the North Sea's average depth of 94 meters.
- •The park borders Norway's Ytre Hvaler National Park, creating a cross-border marine protected area.
- •The name 'Kosterhavet' was created in 2006 during the park's formation and has since become an established geographic name.
Histoire
The first human settlements around the Koster Islands date back to the late Stone Age or early Bronze Age, indicating a long-standing connection to fishing and maritime activities.
The area's significance grew with the large herring periods, boosting local fisheries.
In the early 20th century, human impact intensified, notably due to trawling practices.
Conservation efforts began around the turn of the millennium, culminating in the official establishment of Kosterhavet National Park on September 9, 2009.
It was inaugurated simultaneously with Norway's Ytre Hvaler National Park, marking the first marine national parks in both countries.
Guide du lieu
Koster Islands Archipelago
The archipelago consists of nearly 400 islands and skerries, including the large islands of Nordkoster and Sydkoster. These islands feature rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and diverse habitats that showcase the park's natural variety.
Coral Reefs
One of Sweden's two coral reefs is located within the park, supporting a rich diversity of marine life. This reef benefits from the unique mix of brackish and salty waters, creating a rare ecosystem in Scandinavia.
Kosterfjord Trench
A deep underwater trench reaching approximately 247 meters, the Kosterfjord divides into branches extending toward Norway and eastward along the Swedish border. This trench shapes the park's marine environment and biodiversity.
Contact
Téléphone: 010-224 40 00
