Sweden, the country with the most islands is a land defined by its stunning geography and rich outdoor experiences. While many travelers associate Sweden with its vibrant cities and cultural heritage, the true essence of the country lies in its untouched archipelagos, deep forests, and pristine lakes. For nature lovers and adventurers, Sweden offers a unique opportunity to explore a vast and diverse landscape that remains largely undiscovered by mass tourism.
A Land of Archipelagos and Vast Wilderness
With an astonishing total of 267,570 islands, Sweden stands unrivaled as home to the most islands of any country in the world. While only a fraction of its islands are inhabited, they provide a diverse array of experiences for visitors seeking tranquility, adventure, or a deeper connection with nature.
The Countries With the Most Islands
To better understand Sweden’s unique position, here’s how it compares to other countries with the highest number of islands:
| Rank | Country | Region | Estimated Number of Islands |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sweden | Europe | 267,570 |
| 2 | Norway | Europe | 239,057 |
| 3 | Finland | Europe | 178,947 |
| 4 | Canada | North America | 52,455 |
| 5 | United States | North America | 18,617 |
The Stockholm Archipelago: A Coastal Wonderland
The Stockholm Archipelago, consisting of roughly 30,000 islands, is the most famous and easily accessible island group in Sweden. Just a short boat ride from the capital, visitors can explore a mosaic of rocky skerries, pine-covered islets, and traditional red-and-white cottages. Whether kayaking between uninhabited islands, sailing through glistening waters, or hiking on larger landmasses like Vaxholm or Grinda, this archipelago offers a peaceful escape from urban life.
For those interested in Sweden’s maritime history, Sandhamn is a must-visit, serving as a hub for sailors and home to one of Sweden’s oldest yacht clubs. In contrast, Utö offers scenic biking trails and remnants of one of Sweden’s first iron mines.
The Bohuslän Coast: A Rugged Maritime Dream
Further west, the Bohuslän coast, stretching from Gothenburg to the Norwegian border, offers a dramatic contrast to Stockholm’s island-scattered seascape. Here, smooth granite cliffs rise from the sea, shaped by ancient glacial movements. The archipelago is dotted with charming fishing villages such as Smögen, Fjällbacka, and Marstrand, where visitors can sample freshly caught seafood, including the region’s famed crayfish.
Sea kayaking is one of the best ways to navigate these waters, providing access to hidden coves and uninhabited islands. During the summer, warm waters and endless daylight make swimming and sunbathing on these rocky outcrops an unforgettable experience.
The High Coast: UNESCO-Recognized Beauty
On the Gulf of Bothnia, the High Coast (Höga Kusten) stands as a UNESCO world heritage site due to its unique post-glacial uplift. Towering cliffs, dense forests, and a craggy shoreline create a striking landscape that is perfect for hiking. The High Coast Trail, stretching over 130 kilometers (80 miles), offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Sweden, passing through dense spruce forests and overlooking the Baltic Sea.
For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the Skuleskogen National Park provides shorter hikes with equally impressive views, particularly from Slåttdalsberget, a stunning cliffside plateau. The region is also home to picturesque fishing villages like Ulvöhamn, known for producing Sweden’s traditional fermented herring, surströmming.
- Discover Gotland: Sweden’s Largest Island
- How to Travel to Gotland by Ferry: Routes, Operators & Tips
Outdoor Adventures in Sweden’s Untamed Nature
Sweden’s outdoor culture is deeply rooted in the concept of Allemansrätten, or “the right of public access.” This legal principle allows anyone to roam freely across the countryside, making Sweden an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
Kayaking and Canoeing: Exploring Sweden’s Waterways
With thousands of lakes and countless waterways, Sweden is a paradise for paddlers. The country’s largest lake, Vänern, is dotted with over 22,000 islands and islets, offering endless exploration opportunities. Neighboring Lake Vättern is known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic shoreline, with landmarks like the medieval Vadstena Castle providing a historical backdrop.
Further north, the Lule River and Torne River in Swedish Lapland offer wilderness canoeing experiences where visitors can paddle through vast forests and spot wildlife such as moose and reindeer along the banks.
Hiking the King’s Trail: A Journey into the Arctic Wilderness
One of Sweden’s most iconic hikes, Kungsleden (the King’s Trail), stretches over 400 kilometers (250 miles) through the heart of Swedish Lapland. The trail traverses birch forests, alpine plateaus, and glacial valleys, offering some of the most remote and stunning scenery in Scandinavia. Along the way, hikers can visit traditional Sámi settlements and experience the midnight sun in summer or the northern lights in winter.
For those seeking a shorter trek, the Abisko National Park section of Kungsleden provides a manageable yet breathtaking introduction to Arctic hiking, with dramatic views of Torneträsk Lake and the U-shaped Lapporten valley.
Winter Adventures: A Nordic Wonderland
Sweden’s natural beauty transforms in winter, offering a completely different range of outdoor experiences. Swedish Lapland becomes a dreamlike snowscape where visitors can embark on dog-sledding excursions, ride snowmobiles across frozen rivers, and experience the thrill of ice fishing.
The Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, built anew each year from ice blocks harvested from the Torne River, is an architectural marvel that draws visitors from around the world. Nearby, the small town of Kiruna serves as a gateway to northern lights excursions, where the lack of light pollution makes for some of the most spectacular aurora borealis displays on Earth.
Wildlife Encounters in Sweden’s Untouched Wilderness
Beyond its islands and waterways, Sweden is home to vast forests and national parks teeming with wildlife. Sarek National Park, often referred to as Europe’s last true wilderness, is a haven for adventurous trekkers, where rugged mountains and deep valleys remain untouched by modern infrastructure.
Wildlife enthusiasts can visit the forests of central Sweden for a chance to spot moose, lynx, and even wolves. The region around Lake Hornborga is famous for its annual crane migration, where tens of thousands of birds gather each spring in a spectacular display.
Sweden Ferry Routes
Reaching Sweden’s vast archipelagos and coastal regions is made easier by an extensive network of ferries connecting the country to neighboring nations. Major ferry operators such as Stena Line, Viking Line, and Tallink Silja provide regular routes from Germany, Finland, Denmark, Poland, and the Baltic states.
Book Ferry Tickets to Sweden
The busiest port, Trelleborg, serves as one of Sweden’s main links to Germany, with frequent crossings from Rostock and Travemünde. Stockholm’s ports offer direct access to Finland, Estonia, and the Åland Islands, while routes from Gothenburg connect Sweden to Denmark and Norway. Ferries from Kapellskär travel to Finland and Estonia, from Nynäshamn to Latvia, and from Karlshamn to Lithuania. Many ferries accommodate cars, making island-hopping and cross-border road trips effortless. Whether traveling for leisure or exploring Sweden’s remote coastal gems, ferries offer a scenic and sustainable way to experience the country’s maritime heritage.