Text: Anna Berglund
CARLSTEN FORTRESS MARSTRAND
Where the past and present come to life For more than 350 years, Carlsten's fortress has been the iconic landmark of Marstrand, sitting high atop the island and shaping its life, silhouette and history. Today, it is a vibrant place with accommodation, activities, a café and restaurant. Carlsten's fortress is visible from all directions and captures your gaze whether you arrive by sea or road. Its history begins when Bohuslän became Swedish through the Roskilde Peace Treaty in 1658, when the then-king decided a fortress was to be built on the highest peak of the island.
WELL-PRESERVED AND INTACT FORTRESS The well-preserved fortress reflects the past, when it fell into enemy hands but was won back again. The paved courtyard holds the commander's house, the long-time home of Eiwe Svanberg who runs the guided tours, bringing visitors on a historical journey along winding tunnels, cobbled corridors, dungeons and tower rooms. -“It is an intact fortress and an active, living place with accommodation, restaurants, cafés and activities all year round,” says Eiwe, adding that even in its winter costume the fortress has a certain allure. CLOSELY BUILT COMMUNITY AND MAJESTIC NATURE From the quay, historic wooden houses line the narrow lanes up to the fortress. Car-free Marstrand is bursting with tourists, restaurant life and boat guests during summer. The pace is slower and visitors fewer during the rest of the year, when the landscape, sea and wind reign on the island. The five-kilometre hiking trail around the island is a natural spectacle, regardless of the season. It runs by the Smugglers’ Channel, caves, Troll Forest, Water Lily Pond and not least the Eye of the Needle, a passage between two boulders so narrow that you have to walk sideways through. The scenic trail passes places to rest, take in the views and have a swim. The gentle gaze of Carlsten's fortress rests above it all, safe and eternal. 6
LIVE LIKE A SOLDIER AT THE FORTRESS
Open all year, Soldathotellet offers comfortable accommodation behind the walls that once housed the fortress’ soldiers. Visitors stay in the Donjon or the Commandant's House. The Donjon is where the soldiers once lived, alongside cannons and ready to defend the harbour entrance. Built in 1775 for the Commander and upper class prisoners, and once housing Carlsten's only female prisoner, the Commandant's House today offers nice hotel rooms. Make sure you stop by Carlsten's waffle café right by the entrance gate, to enjoy the fragrant and genuine atmosphere, cosy outdoor seating and great food and drink.
www.carlsten.se CarlstensSoldathotell
