With expansive forests, numerous lakes, and extensive coastline, Sweden is known as a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. But even those visiting the urban sprawl of Stockholm needn't miss out on the great Scandinavian outdoors.
A short boat ride from the capital city's lively streets, the sprawling Stockholm archipelago awaits. Beloved by locals, these islands offer an escape from urban bustle and show an entirely different side of Swedish culture.
Spanning over 650 square miles, the Stockholm Archipelago consists of over 30,000 islands, varying from tiny rock formations to islands spacious enough to accommodate small communities.
During the 19th century, affluent residents of Stockholm started to build residences on the islands nearest to the capital, often traveling to and from work during the warmer seasons. Many of these homes have been passed down through generations.
The archipelago adheres to Sweden's "right to roam" policy, which allows hikers and campers to freely enjoy the land. But if camping isn't your thing, there are accommodation options ranging from inns to boutique glamping sites on several of the bigger islands.
Spending a few days island hopping is the best way to appreciate the diversity of the many thousands of islands, but day trips are more feasible for most travelers.
Day trips are the best option for most travelers with limited time. These range from simple return ferry trips to one of the major islands, or a sightseeing tour of the archipelago featuring an onboard lunch and scenic commentary.
One of the most established companies offers three archipelago sightseeing tours varying in time from 1.5 hours to 3 hours. Starting from $36, these tours on historic vessels include scenic commentary in English, and refreshments available to buy on board.
Planning your own trip with time spent on the islands is possible thanks to the extensive public transit system of passenger ferries, but it takes more planning. Consult the timetables from operator Waxholmsbolaget to get started.
Whichever island you pick, make sure the ferry timetables you’re using are valid for the relevant time period. Ask a local to check if you’re unsure about any notes in Swedish.
With so many islands to choose from, it can be tough to know where to begin. A sightseeing tour is a good option, but there are some specific islands to consider if you’re short on time, or have specific interests.
For those tight on time but still keen to experience the islands, Fjäderholmarna is just a 20-minute ferry ride from downtown Stockholm. The island hosts a variety of artisan shops, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to local delicacies.
During the summer, live music and theater performances are common,
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We’re all familiar with the Scandinavian concept of hygge, which is all about hunkering down and staying cosy in winter. So it will come as no surprise to learn that the Scandis have also got it sussed when it comes to making the most of the summer. Friluftsliv, a Norwegian word that translates as “open-air living”, is all about getting out into the great outdoors, connecting with nature and leaving a minimal environmental footprint. Whether it’s hiring a Swedish summer house, camping on a Danish island or kayaking in Norwegian fjords, we’d love to hear your recommendations for outdoorsy summer holidays in Scandinavia.
Finland has done it again. The 2024 World Happiness Report is out, and for the seventh year in a row, Finland has been named the happiest country in the world.
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The Scotland-based company Slow Adventure advocates a more mindful approach to activity holidays. Options include climbing and yoga in the Italian Alps, mountain biking in Sweden and horse riding and rambling in Iceland. On the Finnish Happiness trip, guests stay in log cabins by a lake in Lapland and activities include canoeing under the midnight sun, hiking, swimming, swamp foraging and daily saunas. On all trips, 5% of the fee goes to local conservation projects, which in Finland could mean helping protect the rare Saimaa ringed seal, preserving forests or supporting a children’s environmental charity.From £876 for five nights, slow-adventure.com
Witnessing the natural phenomenon of the aurora borealis belongs on every traveler’s bucket list. But determining where to see the northern lights is a complex matter—actually encountering the majestic and alien-ish green and purple glow of the night sky is not only about location, but also timing (December to March is ideal in many instances; August through April in other parts), positioning (typically from latitudes 65 to 72 degrees North), and plain ol’ luck (a clear, dark, and cloud-free sky).
This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Amy Beihl, a 32-year-old working in digital consulting, about her decision to buy a 1/21st stake in five European vacation properties in 2022 through August Collections instead of purchasing her own home in the US. The conversation was edited for length and clarity.
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In the much-awaited second season of The Reluctant Traveler, which premieres March 8 on Apple TV+, award-winning actor, writer, producer and comedian Eugene Levy isn’t quite as adamantly travel-averse as he used to be. In fact, last year’s filmed far-flung journeys have worked magic on Levy, who now anticipates getaways with less apprehension and more appreciation. While he still dislikes the getting there via airports part of travel, Levy loves staying at pampering hotels. Who wouldn’t? This year’s seven distinctive European hotspots, where Levy slept, are fascinatingly cool. Which one would be your fantasy destination?