Slottsskogen
Gothenburg's central park, 137 hectares of wood, rock and lawn with a free enclosure of Nordic animals.
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Slottsskogen was laid out from 1874 on ground that had been the castle's forest, and it covers about a hundred and thirty-seven hectares of oak wood, rock outcrops, meadow and ponds in the middle of the city. The animal enclosures are free to visit and hold Nordic species - elk, deer, seals, Gotland ponies, sheep - along with a penguin pool that is the exception to the rule. There is a bird pond, a children's zoo, an observatory and long stretches of wood where the city is out of sight. Way Out West festival is held here in August. The botanical garden is across the road to the south.
What you actually see
- Free Nordic animal enclosures - elk, deer, seals, ponies.
- Oak wood and rock outcrops - across 137 hectares.
- A bird pond and children's zoo - the family side.
- A festival site in August - Way Out West.
When to go
April to September; the animals are out year round. Half a day.
Honest expectations
Animals are in enclosures and often out of view. The festival closes large sections in August. Winter leaves the park bare. It is large - walking between the parts takes time.
Nearby
The botanical garden is south; Linne and Haga are east.
What to pack for Slottsskogen
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
