Newly opened as Sweden’s first marine national park on the east coast, Nämdöskärgården National Park spans roughly 25,000 hectares, about 97 percent of which is water. Composed of more than 1,000 islands, reefs and skerries, it is one of the largest continuous archipelago landscapes in the Baltic Sea and offers an exceptional coastal nature experience.
Nämdö is accessible by boat from Stockholm. During the summer months, direct service is provided by Båttaxi from the Stavsnäs dock between June and September. From there, visitors can reach charming island villages, dense forests, protected nature areas and dramatic rocky cliffs. The park’s official site offers practical information on dining, glamping and guest harbors to help plan a stay.
© Nämdöskärgården National Park
Outdoor activities are abundant. Guided kayaking tours and solo kayak rentals are offered at Idöborg, where paddling expert Jonas Hållén arranges kayaking trips, open-water swims and swimrun safaris. Idöborg, a privately owned island about an hour from Stockholm, also hosts small bars and eateries that highlight local ingredients.
Culinary options across the archipelago range from casual cafés to cozy taverns. In the village of Solvik, The Bakery focuses on freshly baked Neapolitan-style pizza and other baked goods. On the island of Sand, the Archipelago Museum’s Garden Cafe serves coffee, fresh pastries, ice cream and light treats. On Rögrund, Sjökrog is popular for its relaxed lakeside tavern atmosphere and rustic menu featuring regional flavors.
© Nämdöskärgården National Park
The islands also host wellness and retreat opportunities. Idöborg runs spring and autumn yoga retreats and can accommodate conferences, meetings and private events. Visitors can follow local wellness traditions with a wood-fired sauna and choose from guest rooms or private cottages for overnight stays.
Beyond Idöborg, there are numerous small islands and natural sites to explore. Ekholmen offers winding nature paths across its varied landscape. The dramatic craters at Gillinge are striking geological features, while Kyrknäset preserves a belfry and church ruins that speak to the area’s cultural history. Nearby nature reserves such as Bullerö and Biskopsön protect important habitats and provide opportunities for birdwatching, hiking and quiet appreciation of the archipelago’s biodiversity.
Whether you arrive for a day trip or an extended stay, Nämdöskärgården National Park presents a mix of outdoor adventure, coastal scenery and small-island culture. With easy summer boat access from Stockholm and a range of activities and dining options, the archipelago is well suited to paddlers, hikers, nature lovers and anyone seeking a peaceful escape on the Baltic Sea.