Taking an autumnal jaunt around the Stockholm Archipelago, Calum and Lauren of The Rolling Home give us their top tips on what to see and do in this beautiful city. From the cobbled streets of Gamla stan to the stillness of the forests on the outer reaches of the archipelago, Calum and Lauren document their journey in one of their favourite cities. If you’re planning to take a trip to Stockholm this winter, get clued up with their city and wilderness guide.
Visit a National Park
Just 20 minutes south of Stockholm is Tyresta National Park, a true wilderness right on the doorstep of one of Europe’s largest cities. We spent our first evening hiking through the north of the park before setting up camp for the night. We woke to find the lakes shrouded in mist, and Autumn in full swing. Take the bus from Stockholm or hire a car and drive to the park’s many access points. Be sure to bring camping gear and fresh water.
Stay the night in a traditional cabin (and escape the rain)
No sooner had our second day started than the heavens opened. We opted to escape the September rain and stay the night in a cabin on the outskirts of the city, complete with wood fired sauna and cast iron stove. For the true Swedish experience, cook meatballs over the wood fire and jump into bed fresh from the sauna.
Take a boat trip from Stockholm Harbour
The Stockholm Archipelago is made up of over 30,000 islands of all shapes and sizes. Many of the islands are inhabited, but you’ll be sure to find an empty beach or maybe even an island to yourself. Take one of the many boats that weave daily routes through the network of islands. Hop on and off wherever you fancy. Be sure to take a schedule and map of the islands. From the water, you can truly appreciate Stockholm’s connection to the Archipelago and the surrounding wilderness.
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Camp on Svartsö
We camped for the night on one of the larger islands, Svartsö. There is a small shop on the island and a restaurant called ‘Svartsö Krog’. There is also ‘glamping’ in bell tents for those wanting a more luxurious night sleep. We opted for a hike to the west of the island and our own spot overlooking the Baltic.
Explore the city at golden hour
It may be early Autumn but the sun hasn’t lost all of its warmth just yet. We spent a week in the city two years earlier at this time of year, falling in love with the place and the season. Walk north to south, across Gamla stan and on the Södermalm. Pack a jumper just in case, it gets chilly as soon as the sun sets. Stop for a coffee or a beer in one of the many busy bars.
Stay in a traditional family home
We headed north of the city towards Uppsala for a night in an 18th century timber home. The Swedish people have to be some of the nicest in Europe. We chatted with the owner over breakfast about their summer house in Götland and their love of sailing. We can’t help but yearn for the simple timeless Scandinavian design and decor.
Take out food
Back to the city for our last night. We opted for Thai food on the water’s edge- the perfect way to celebrate our eight year anniversary, back in a country we fell in love with many years ago. Join the small crowd sitting enjoying the last few moments of a beautiful autumnal day.
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