City Breaks To Stockholm: Island Life
Saturday, May 21st, 2011Stockholm is one of the most unique places in the world and many visitors come every year to experience its spectacular surroundings. The city is made up of hundreds of islands, also known as the Archipelago. With over 25,000 beautiful islets, visitors can spend everything from a day, city breaks of a weekend, to a few months exploring. Read on to find out which islets are the best to visit if time is short or you don’t know where to start.
Vaxholm
Vaxholm is known as the capital of the archipelago and spreads over 64 islands. Shopping fans will enjoy a visit here with the small boutiques and souvenir shops on offer. If you like your food,there are many unique cafes and independent restaurants to wet your appetite. A main feature of these islands is the wooden houses which were built at the start of the last century. The pastel coloured buildings add charm and style to the area. You can hop on a boat and quickly visit the island of Vaxholmen where the citadel and the Fortress Museum are located. History fans will enjoy learning about the fort’s history, which dates back to the 1500s, where King Gustav Vasa built it to protect Stockholm. Vaxholm will be a welcome stop for travellers on city breaks to Sweden, with its picturesque surroundings and rich culture.
Sandhamn:
Sandhamm is notably one of the most beautiful islands in the Stockholm Archipelago. It was recently quoted in Stieg Larsson’s Millennium series as being a getaway for the main character Micheal Blomkvist.One of the island’s highlights is the beautiful harbour; home to a range of spectacular yachts which are a favourite with visitors as a photography haven. The village also offers winding alleyways leading to small cafes and shops to wile away a lazy afternoon with, or experience the remarkable maritime terrain of the outer archipelago. A key meeting place for yachters and sailors, and a vibrant party area, Sandhamn is a popular destination.Stepping onto this islet is like taking a step back in time. No cars are allowed, which makes for a lovely silence hanging in the air. The island offers a wonderful a range of activities and makes for an extra special location for such events as stag/hen parties, conferences, romantic weekend or weddings.
When you visit Stockholm on a European city break, its not just one city you’re visiting, its 25,000 all together in one. Travelling from one island to another is easy with the riverboat taxis, which makes each islet accessible. Alternatively, sea kayaking is an ideal way to experience the rich natural heritage of the archipelago at a much more leisurely pace.