Getteron Nature Reserve

Getteron sits on the coast just outside Varberg where a shallow bay, reed beds and grazed wet meadow meet, and the mix of habitats in a small area gives it a species list that runs well over three hundred - unusual for a site you can walk round in a couple of hours. Avocet, ruff, spotted redshank and a long run of ducks and waders use it on passage, marsh harrier and bearded tit breed, and rarities turn up regularly enough that Swedish birders check it habitually. A visitor centre with a large window over the water and several hides around the reserve make it usable in any weather, which matters on this coast.

What you actually see

• A species list over three hundred - in a small area.
• Waders on passage - avocet, ruff, spotted redshank.
• Breeding marsh harrier and bearded tit - in the reed beds.
• A visitor centre and hides - usable in bad weather.

When to go

April to June and August to October for passage. Half a day.

Honest expectations

It is a birding site - without binoculars there is little to do. The centre keeps seasonal hours. Wind off the sea is constant. Summer between the passages is quieter.

Nearby

Varberg fortress is south; the Halland coast runs both ways.