The guide to winter activities in Gothenburg

Take a brisk winter walk in the park surrounding Gunnebo Castle & Gardens. While you're here, don't miss their organic restaurant and bakery, Gunnebo Kaffehus & Krog, in the castle's old workers' cottages. They serve food and coffee and cakes made with organic ingredients.

Gothenburg has lots of lovely parks and recreation areas if you want to go for a walk and enjoy the fresh air. Historic Slottskogen, the beautifully preserved 19th century Horticultural Society with its cafés and activities, Gothenburg's Botanical Gardens and the Delsjön nature reserve are just a few. The hill leading down to Lake Delsjön is a great sledging spot when it snows.

Ice skating is a classic and very popular winter activity. Gothenburg has both ice skating rinks and natural ice you can skate on. When the waters of Härlanda Tjärn lake freeze over they make a perfect natural skating rink but make sure you check the ice properly before heading out. You'll find more information on Gothenburg City website.

If you're in the mood for Mediterranean vibes amidst the winter darkness, head to Boulebar on Rosenlundsgatan in the middle of the city. Boulebar houses an indoor boules park and restaurant with a French theme. Book in dinner, lunch or brunch and challenge each other to a game of boules.

After a long walk in the area around Lake Delsjö, stop off at Bertilssons Stuga in the middle of the nature reserve. The 19th century red cottage serves light lunches and cakes and pastries from their own bakery. There's also an open fire to warm yourself in front of.

If winter feels endless and you're tired of the freezing temperatures, snow and slush, this beach volleyball hall provides a welcome antidote. Beach Center has white sand, sun and palm trees all year round and, naturally, volleyball courts to practice on, whether you're an experienced player or a complete beginner. After the beach volleyball, just head to the bar for a refreshing drink or something to eat.

When it comes to indoor activities, bowling is always a safe bet. At Star Bowling you get an all-American experience, with American-inspired food and activities. As well as bowling you can try your hand at shuffleboard, billards and much more.

The chance of a white and ski-friendly winter in Gothenburg is unfortunately not the greatest, but regardless of the weather, you don't have to travel far from the city centre to step out onto the trails. At Skidome, the ski slope is ready year-round, and as well as skiing on your own, you can also take ski lessons to sharpen your technique. The 1.2-kilometre track is suitable for all ages, and all necessary equipment is available to hire on site.

Float free in the world's highest wind tunnel. At Bodyflight you can experience how it feels to fly, without having to jump out of an aeroplane. Before the activity you're given equipment and a safety briefing, then you can fly as your group looks on. A perfect activity for the family (children from three years up) or a group of friends.

If you prefer staying indoors during the colder days of winter, you don't have to get bored - there are plenty of cosy indoor activities to enjoy. One such activity is the recurring painting event hosted by A'mon. Unleash your inner artist, get creative with paint while sipping on a nice glass of wine, and forget about the winter outside. Suitable for all levels, whether you've never held a brush before or you're a seasoned artist.

Breathe in the history while you enjoy freshly-made crisp waffles in this little wooden cottage at Skansen Kronan. You can look out over the whole of Gothenburg from this charming waffle hut. As well as waffles they also serve quiches and other goodies.

At Grace Sports Bar, you can sink into armchairs by the crackling fire, enjoy something warming to eat or just have a drink while watching the matches on the TV screens. Fun activities such as mini-golf, electronic darts and weekly quizzes are also available all year round. Gather friends and family for a tournament - perhaps with a treat from the dessert menu as a prize for the winner.

Forget everything you think you know about minigolf – it's had a real upswing (pun intended) here! In a basement location on Kaserntorget, this classic activity is combined with pizza and drinks in exciting surroundings with vibrant colours and neon lights. Book in advance or drop in spontaneously.

Ready to challenge your friend to a game of ping pong? Then head to Slice, where everything is all about ping pong. Play a few rounds and see who the rightful winner is before you dive into pizzas, snacks, and drinks at the restaurant. You can book in advance, but they always reserve a few spots for spontaneous players.

Going to the cinema is a classic winter activity. The Roy cinema shows everything from old classics to new releases. The cinema has been on Avenyn since the Forties and they show top quality films. As well as the regular programme they show specialist documentaries, hold theme evenings and much more.

Few things can beat a cup of steaming hot chocolate when the winter weather really starts to bite. Drop by a cosy café and thaw out your limbs after a long walk. Among the top spots in Gothenburg for hot chocolate are Teatergatan, Berzelii Choklad and Gelaterian.

Feeling tired and grey in the winter darkness? Treat yourself to a little luxury and spend the day at a relaxing spa. Winter is the ideal time to enjoy some relaxing spa treatments and revitalising baths. Gothenburg has a number of oases where you can take care of your body and soul. Check out our guide for recommendations.