Skansen Kronan in Göteborg, Sweden

 

Skansen Kronan is the neighbourhood fortress that lies on the hill Skansberget just above Skanstorget in Göteborg, Sweden.

Just a short hike up or a steep set of stairs up and you are rewarded with a panoramic view of the city. We usually take friends and relatives, who visit us in Göteborg, up there for the views. 

Note: The pathway up on either side is steep but if you plan to walk up with a stroller, it's manageable. I've been up to Skansen very pregnant pushing a stroller and made it. The only tricky part is the cobblestone path right to the Fort. I usually park the stroller before the cobblestones start.

Skansen Kronan was completed in 1700 and had 23 canons. It was built to protect against the enemies in the South, the Danes. It never attacked by enemies, and instead functioned as a prison and later a military museum.

The Fort hosts a Julbord or "Christmas buffet" during the Christmas season and the unique venue can even be booked for weddings or parties. There are also guided tours offered of the Skansen Kronan, but I'm not sure if they are still running during the Pandemic.

Beautiful views of the city from the top of the hill!

Fika spot! 

Next to the fortress is a cozy little cafe called "Våffelcafé Soldattorpet". I've only visited once to check it out but it smelled of delicious waffles and coffee. There was even a cozy fireplace inside.

The little red hut next to the fortress is the Våffelcafe.

There is some seating inside the cafe and a warm fireplace.

There is also some outdoor seating on nice days right by the cafe and a view of the fortress.

Skansen Kronan is also a popular spot for picnics on the grassy area by the fort in the summer. And on New Year's Eve, people have lit fireworks up on the hill at midnight.

EDIT: As of June 2021, they've opened a new cafe called Kronans Terrass and seating area on the spot I was sitting in the photo above! It's a really great spot for sunshine and snacks! They have lunch items, pastries and even ice cream. Kid Friendly too!

To get down from Skansen Kronan, you can walk down the paths on either side of the hill or take the steep staircase down which lead into Haga. Note: During the winter months, avoid the stairs! They could be icy and hazardous to walk down/up. Just stick to the paths. 

If you're visiting Göteborg in the future, or live in the city, I'd recommend hiking up to Skansen Kronan för the amazing views of Göteborg. Enjoy the view and remember, don't forget your snacks!

Skansen Kronan - Kronans Terrass

Skansberget, Leijonsparres Väg 15, 413 04 Göteborg, Sweden

For more information on the old fortification, tours or booking, check out their website.

Våffelcafé Soldattorpe
Haga, 413 07 Göteborg, Sweden
For more information on the unique cafe, check out what Goteborg.com has to say about them.