In the summertime these unique islescapes are eldorados for sailors and other boating people, offering a virtually infinite variety of scenery and experiences. The vast majority of these islands are uninhabited, accessible to anyone who can reach them by boat, with plenty of idyllic bays and rocks where you can anchor overnight and spend the next day sunbathing, swimming and picnicking – when our somewhat unpredictable Nordic summer weather allows it, that is. A boating weekend in the archipelago in June, July or early August, when the day lasts long into the night, is an experience of magical dimensions. It’s something you will never forget and which everyone on earth should have the privilege to experience at least once.

All along the coastline, and out on the islands, there are numerous peaceful small towns, villages and old fishing ports where you can find comfortable accommodation in different price ranges, as well as restaurants, cafés and, especially in summer, various events and entertainment. If you´re boatless, you can take a ferry from coastal towns such as Öregrund, Grisslehamn, Östhammar, Kapellskär, Norrtälje, Stavsnäs, Waxholm, Dalarö or Nynäshamn – or, of course, from the centre of Stockholm. You can go isle-hopping for a week, a month or more if you like, with no risk of running out of things to see and experience. In the above-mentioned towns, and in many other places, you can also rent boats, kayaks and bicycles for further excursions.

Generally speaking, you can say that the northern archipelago seascapes, in the region of Roslagen, are more desolete, with mostly uninhabited islands overgrown with pine forest. Here you can really experience the poetic calm and solitude of the archipelago even at the apex of the holiday season in July, enjoying the intense bird life. The southern archipelago has more boats and more vacationers, with more coastal towns where the social and party life can be quite intense in the summer season.

The archipelago seascapes are no less spectacular during the winter season, though less easily accessible and a bit more demanding. However, many of the most popular towns and villages can be reached by ferries throughout the year, and a winter excursion to one of the many cozy inns and hotels that are open year round – perhaps for a classic Swedish Christmas lunch or dinner – is another unforgettable archipelago experience. In spring and autumn, too, archipelago excursions are highly recommendable for relaxing strolls, or for flower, mushroom or berry picking. If you´re a fisherman, pike and sea trout fishing in spring and autumn is an exclusivity that attracts afficionados from all over Europe and further afield as well.