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EMBRACING SLOW SWEDISH SUMMERS – ISLAND CABIN LIVING

It was Tove Jansson’s classic, The Summer Book, that first introduced me to Scandinavian summers and archipelagos strewn confetti-like with tiny islands, those in turn dotted with brightly painted wooden cabins. The all-too-brief passing of the northern summer months, the sense of urgency to seize every moment of sunshine and dappled light, before “it is still summer, but the summer is no longer alive.”

I had travelled to Sweden many times – and even spent a couple of years learning Swedish. My Pinterest feed was full of brightly painted cabins perched on rocky islets. It was time to take the plunge. 

One of the loveliest things about slow travel around the islands is that they are some of the most enchanting and serene destinations in Scandinavia, offering a perfect summer retreat for those seeking both relaxation and a deeper connection to nature. 

Imagine staying in a quaint wooden island cabin (stuga) with its rickety jetty jutting out in the water, surrounded by pristine landscapes and tranquil waters. An eco-stay on one of Sweden’s islands is not just a holiday—it’s an invitation to embrace slow travel.  Getting there will inevitably take a little time – there are boats to catch, routes to map. Once you arrive you will want to explore, and really get to discover the island. It’s about embracing a much more intentional and mindful approach to journeying. Time slows down – even more so if you can find an island with patchy internet connection, and a cabin owner resistant to TVs and technology.  Think board games, sea swimming, saunas and ice-plunge, grilling supper outdoors while swiping away mosquitos (nowhere, not even Sweden can be 100% perfect). 

For Swedish friends, summer is a much anticipated time of year with family gatherings and long, light-filled days spent bobbing about on the water, or hiking in the woods, eating räksmörgås (a typical open shrimp sandwich on rye, with dill and cucumber, liberally doused in lemon juice and mayo) in rocky coves.

Whether you’re looking for a rustic escape or a quiet weekend of reflection, a typical Falu Red (faluröd) island cabin provides the ultimate cosy eco-friendly getaway. Tempted?

Here is just a small sample of the Swedish islands, how to get to them, and what to do when you’re there. Prepare to disconnect from the endless rush of everyday life and experience an authentic, slow-paced Pippi Longstocking type adventure of your very own.

The Swedish Islands: A Haven for Nature Lovers

First things first: Sweden is home to a diverse array of islands, each with its own unique charm. With over an incredible  267,000 islands dotting its coastline (of which over 1000 are inhabited), the country’s archipelagos offer endless opportunities for eco-friendly exploration. From the Baltic Sea to the Gulf of Bothnia, Sweden’s islands feature untouched wilderness, charming fishing villages, crystal-clear waters, and an abundance of flora and fauna.  Here I’ve picked out just a few favourite islands to introduce you to slow Swedish summer living.

Popular Swedish Islands for Eco-Stays:

Gotland: Sweden’s largest island, Gotland is a blend of historical sites, sandy beaches, and rolling fields. Its medieval town, Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers charming cobblestone streets and ancient ruins. Gotland is renowned for its eco-conscious agriculture and sustainable tourism practices.  This is a busier island, with lots going on, but can be a good way to ease into island hopping.

Fårö: Next door to Gotland (a mere 6-minute hop by ferry), and once Ingmar Bergman’s favourite Swedish island escape (the famous film director lived and worked here for over 40 years), sits Fårö. Sundersand is a firm favourite with beach-seeking families, with soft sands and safe, shallow waters. Or go exploring midst the towering limestone sea stacks that dot the island. Trace the island’s Viking past in Gamla Hamn, the old harbour.

Öland: Known for its flat landscapes, Öland is home to Stora Alvaret, a unique UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of a vast limestone plateau. The island is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. It’s also the summer residence of the Swedish royal family. The island offers a varied landscape – from farmland, to forests, 300 kms of coastline and stunning cliffs. It’s the perfect place to cycle around, with plenty to explore at a slow pace.  Follow the Ölandsleden (Öland’s Trail) that wraps round the island. Windsurfers and kitesurfers love it here, the beaches are sandy and unspoilt, and foodies will find excellent restaurants too. History buffs can enjoy castles, open-air museums, and lots more to discover. One of the more accessible islands, Öland can actually be reached via the Öland bridge. 

The Stockholm Archipelago: Comprising over 30,000 islands, the Stockholm Archipelago is one of the most stunning areas in Sweden. From the tranquil islands of (easily accessible) Vaxholm with its pastel-coloured homes to outdoorsy Grinda (perfect for camping and hosteling), each island offers a peaceful retreat.

These islands are not just places of beauty—they are communities committed to sustainability and preserving their natural environments. With renewable energy initiatives, local food production, and eco-conscious accommodations, Sweden’s islands offer the perfect backdrop to slip into slow travel.

And getting to the islands from Stockholm is relatively straightforward with plenty of ferry crossings throughout the summer months. 

The High Coast Archipelago: Why not visit Trysunda, considered Sweden’s most beautiful island (think dozens of red fishermen’s huts perched around a horseshoe bay backed by deep emerald forest) or Ulvön island for more picture-perfect fishing villages and beautiful nature. 

Getting to Your Swedish Island Cabin: Travel Tips for an Eco-Conscious Journey

Once you’ve found your dream summer escape – try stugknuten.com for bookings, or airbnb.com, booking.com or cabinsinsweden.com – then it’s time to get planning.

One of the main aspects of slow travel is reducing your carbon footprint and taking your time to fully immerse yourself in the destination. Here’s how you can travel to your Swedish island cabin in an eco-friendly way:

Train Travel: Sweden’s extensive and efficient rail network makes it easy to travel from major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, or Malmo to various coastal cities near the islands. Trains are a sustainable mode of travel, allowing you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Swedish countryside.

From Stockholm, ferries depart from Nybrokajen or Strömkajen in the city that will take you to the islands of the Stockholm Archipelago. 

For Gotland take the train from Stockholm to one of the coastal departure points for ferry crossings – Nynäshamn, Västervik or Oskarshamn are all options.  

To reach the High Coast area of Sweden, travel north from Stockholm by train. högakusten.com provides maps and guides to the region, known for its beautiful nature and hiking trails, as well the islands that dot its coastline.

Ferries and Boats: Once you arrive at the nearest coastal city, ferries are the most common way to reach the islands. Sweden’s ferry systems are eco-conscious and operate using energy-efficient methods. The ferries between Stockholm and the archipelago, Gotland, and other islands use low-emission technology and are often powered by biofuels.

Electric Cars and Bicycles: For getting around on the islands themselves, if you need a car why not opt for an electric vehicle (EV). Some of the islands, like Gotland, have a network of electric car chargers, making it easy to get around with a low environmental impact. 

Better still try out bicycle rentals instead. Biking is also a wonderful way to experience slow travel, and it’s the ideal mode of transport for short trips to local beaches or villages.

What to Do on the Swedish Islands: A Slow Travel Itinerary

Your eco-stay on a Swedish island should be all about unhurried exploration and immersing yourself in nature. The beauty of slow travel lies in taking your time, connecting with the local environment, and engaging with the community in an authentic way. Here’s a guide to how you can spend your days on the islands:

Day 1: Arrival and Settling In

Upon arriving on your island of choice, your first task is to check into your cabin. Many of the islands have small, eco-friendly cottages or traditional cabins built with sustainability in mind. These cabins often feature solar panels, rainwater collection systems, and biodegradable products to minimise their environmental impact. The peaceful surroundings of your cabin provide the perfect space to unwind and embrace the slow pace of island life. Generally these aren’t luxury stays – or rather they are a kind of simple, quiet luxury stay. It’s more the luxury of uninterrupted time, of slowing down and creating lasting travel memories in a beautiful setting.

Settle into the cabin and spend your first evening enjoying the stillness of the island. Many cabins offer outdoor terraces or wood-fired hot tubs—ideal for watching the sunset over the water or simply unwinding under the stars.

Day 2: Nature Walks and Local Experiences

Start your day by taking a nature walk around the island. Swedish islands are filled with trails that lead you through forests, along rocky coastlines, and past quiet coves. Here are some options for nature walks:

Gotland: Explore the island’s ancient stone wall ruins and pastoral landscapes. Visit neighbouring Fårö for its picturesque sand dunes and sea stacks, which are iconic to Gotland’s coastline.

Öland: Visit Öland’s Stora Alvaret, a vast limestone plain that’s home to a rich variety of wildflowers and birdlife.

Stockholm Archipelago: On islands like Grinda and Yxlan, explore dense forests, visit local farms, or simply take a long walk along the water to observe the wildlife, including seals and migratory birds.

Many of the islands support organic farming and traditional crafts, making it easy to learn about the local culture and sustainability practices. You can buy fresh local produce like cheese, honey, or berries, which are often sold in small family-owned stores or markets.

Day 3: Kayaking, Swimming, and Island Hopping

After spending some time on foot or cycling, it’s time to experience the islands from the water. Many Swedish islands offer kayak rentals, allowing you to explore the pristine waters and nearby coves. You might also opt for a guided eco-tour to learn about the local marine ecosystem and conservation efforts in the region.

Kayaking is a popular activity around the Stockholm Archipelago and the High Coast, where you can paddle through many narrow straits and pass tiny islands.

Swimming in the cool, clear waters is also a favourite activity, especially on warmer days.

In the afternoon, take a small sailing tour to explore nearby islands or secluded beaches. This is an eco-friendly way to island-hop without relying on fuel-guzzling motorboats.

Day 4: Cultural Immersion and Reflection

On your final day, immerse yourself in the island’s history and culture. Many Swedish islands are steeped in tradition, with local museums, art galleries, and historical sites. Visit a local museum on Gotland to learn about Viking heritage, or explore the medieval churches and ruins on Öland.

The Swedes are quite reserved usually, but if you make the effort to say a few things in Swedish, that goes a long way. Most people speak perfect English, but a cheery ‘hej, hej’ or ‘tack sa mycket’ will be appreciated.

For a more introspective experience, consider spending time reflecting in one of the island’s many peaceful natural spots, like an old stone circle or a quiet beach at sunset. The simplicity of island life will encourage you to slow down and savour every moment.

Eco-Friendly Tips for Your Swedish Island Stay

Respect Local Wildlife: Swedish islands are home to unique ecosystems. Be mindful not to disturb wildlife, especially during nesting seasons.

Pack Light and Green: Use reusable water bottles, bring your own eco-friendly toiletries, and avoid single-use plastics. Many islands are committed to reducing waste, so it’s important to be a responsible traveler.

Opt for Local and Organic: Support sustainable farming by buying local produce and crafts. Many islands offer farm-to-table dining experiences or have small eco-conscious cafes and restaurants.

Minimise Energy Consumption: Most eco-cabins are designed to be energy-efficient, but it’s still important to minimise your use of electricity and water.

Top Tip: Pack a copy of Tove Jansson’s The Summer Book for a heartwarming account of a Scandinavian island stay.

A Slow Travel Experience You’ll Never Forget

You’ll probably swim in the sea, laze in the sunshine, discover the Swedish art of ‘fika’ – an almost sacred pause in the day to slow down with a coffee and snack (cinnamon buns are a favourite), get lost on pretty island trails, and just find yourself unwinding. Immerse in the peaceful rhythms of island life, and enjoy an authentic, green travel experience and slow Swedish summer that will leave you refreshed and reconnected to nature.