Varberg

Varberg is a locality in Halland County, Sweden, with a population of 35,782 as of 2019. Known for its sandy beaches and rocky coastline, it is considered one of Sweden’s most beautiful cities. The town is located on the west coast and is a popular destination for beachgoers and surfers. Its landscape transitions from sandy beaches to rocky terrain northward into the Bohuslän archipelago. Varberg features several green parks, including Society Park and English Park, which were developed after the 19th century when the area was largely devoid of trees.

The climate is oceanic, with moderate temperatures by Swedish standards but significant seasonal variation. Summers are cooler due to marine airflow, while winters can experience severe frosts. The highest recorded temperature was 33.6°C in 2018, and the lowest was -25.5°C in 1942.

Historically, Varberg’s fortress was built in the 1280s as part of Danish territory. The town became Swedish through treaties in 1645 and 1658. It has been rebuilt multiple times after wars and fires, including a devastating fire in 1863. Today, the population exceeds 56,000.

Notable landmarks include the Varberg Fortress, the Grimeton VLF transmitter (a UNESCO site), Bexell Cottage, and Komedianten cultural center. Sports facilities are abundant, with Apelviken offering rentals for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and other water sports. Transportation includes Varberg Airport, and the town is part of the Eurotowns network.

Prominent individuals from Varberg include Ingemund Bengtsson, Sophie Gustafson, Andy LaRocque, Dick Lövgren, and Dafina Zeqiri, among others.