10 Things to Do in the Stockholm Archipelago This Summer

Summer in the Stockholm archipelago is something truly unique. Sun-warmed rocky outcrops, cold, clear water, tranquil coves, and the wind in your sails—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve gone home. From Marholmen, our island in the heart of Stockholm’s northern archipelago, nature is right around the corner and the sea is close at hand. Here are ten things you shouldn’t miss this summer.

1. Paddle a canoe among islands and islets

Gliding across the mirror-smooth surface of the sea in a canoeis one of the absolute highlights of the summer season. In the archipelago around Marholmen , a labyrinthine landscape of islands, islets, and coves Marholmen —perfect for exploring at your own pace. You feel an immediate connection to nature: you hear the wind, see the silence, and can stop right where you want.

Canoeing is for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced canoeist. Be sure to take an early morning trip—when the fog hangs low over the water and the archipelago hasn’t yet woken up, it’s hard to beat.

2. Take a dip in the archipelago's waters

Nothing beats a spontaneous Bath right from a sun-warmed dock, which is also the perfect spot to lie back and soak up the sun afterward. Dip your toes in on a sunny morning, take an evening dip, or—if you’re brave—start your day with a refreshing wake-up call. 

Swimming in the archipelago is an unparalleled experience of nature and one of the things that makes vacationers and conference attendees often say they “forget where they are”—in the best possible way. 

3. Go fishing in the archipelago’s rich waters

The Stockholm archipelago is one of Europe’s best fishing spots. Perch, pikeperch, pike, and—further out toward the open sea—cod and mackerel await the patient angler. Fishing is more than just a hobby: it’s a way to slow down, be present in the moment, and truly unwind. Cast your line from the cliffs, rent a small motorboat and head out onto the bay, or try fly fishing in the tranquil coves.

4. Glamping on Marholmen Sleep Under the Stars in Comfort

Imagine falling asleep to the sound of waves lapping against the raft, waking up to the morning light streaming through the tent fabric, and enjoying a view of the sea even before you’ve had your first cup of coffee. Which, of course, is delivered right to your tent. This is glamping on Marholmen an experience that combines the best of the great outdoors with thoughtful comfort.

Here, you don’t have to compromise. The bed is soft, the surroundings are authentic, and the feeling of being right in the middle of nature is complete. It’s a completely different kind of overnight stay than a hotel room—more intimate, more vibrant, and with a direct connection to the archipelago’s nature that’s hard to find anywhere else.

Glamping is just as suitable for those who want an unforgettable experience with a partner, a friend, or a teenager, as it is for those who’ve never tried sleeping outdoors and are curious to see what it’s all about.

5. Enjoy the sunset from the cliffs

The sunsets in the archipelago are legendary. When the sky turns deep shades of pink, orange, and gold, and the sea reflects every hue—that’s when time stands still, if only for a moment. Find your favorite cliff, bring a glass of wine or a cup of tea, and let the evening unfold at its own pace.

In the middle of summer, it stays light until half past ten in the evening—and it’s precisely that hour that makes the archipelago magical.

6. Sample authentic archipelago cuisine

Summer tastes different in the archipelago. The food tells a story about the place you’re visiting. A truly great archipelago dinner isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience in itself.

At Marholmen , we Marholmen the ingredients that the archipelago and the region have to offer. Our chefs create dishes that combine classic home-style cooking with modern influences—all served in a setting that further enhances the dining experience.

7. Relax in the spa and Nordic sauna

Something happens to your body when you combine the heat of the sauna with an ice-cold dip in the sea. It’s an ancient Nordic ritual that feels just as invigorating today as it did a thousand years ago. In the archipelago—with the sea just a few steps away—the experience is especially powerful.

At Marholmen , you Marholmen access to a spa and sauna with a view of the sea. It’s the perfect way to end an active day or start your morning.

8. Play tennis and beach volleyball outdoors

There’s something liberating about being active outdoors when the sun is warm and the sea breeze is cool. A quick game of tennis, an intense set of beach volleyball with the sand beneath your feet, or a round of adventure golf with friends—an active summer doesn’t have to be complicated.

Marholmen a multi-purpose court for tennis or basketball, a beach volleyball court, and an adventure golf course—all set against a natural backdrop and just a short walk from a refreshing dip in the sea after a sweaty match. Your competitive spirit really comes alive in the archipelago air.

9. Go hiking and experience the island’s nature up close

The archipelago’s natural environment offers a wealth of beauty that’s easy to take for granted—until you pause and really take it in. Take a leisurely morning stroll along the shoreline, explore the island on foot, and listen to the birds. Acorns, sea swallows, herons, and sea eagles—the archipelago is teeming with life if you take the time to notice it. At the front desk, you’ll find a guide with instructions for anyone who wants to try a relaxing forest bath at the far end of Strömsholmen. 

10. Do nothing—and enjoy every second

Perhaps the most important thing to do in the archipelago requires zero planning and zero equipment: pause, breathe in the archipelago air, and let your body and mind rest. Lie down on a rock or on the beach with a book. Watch the clouds. Listen to the waves lapping against the shore. Let the unique silence that exists only out on the islands wash over you.

In our constantly connected world, doing absolutely nothing is a rare, valuable, and luxurious choice. And there’s no better place to do it than in the archipelago.

Book Your Summer at Marholmen

Marholmen an entire island in Stockholm’s northern archipelago, offering accommodations, a restaurant, a spa, activities, and conference facilities —all in one place. Whether you’re planning a team conference, a romantic weekend, or a family vacation that will create memories to last a lifetime, we’re here to make your time in the archipelago unforgettable.

Come visit us.