Today I am writing about one of the most popular islands of the Stockholm archipelago, Sandhamn. Sandhamn has about 100 permanent residents that live all year on the island and the island gets about 100,000 visitors annually. During the summer, the number of residents increases to about 3,000, making it very crowded! I have had the opportunity to go both in the winter and the summer months. Naturally summer is more exciting and fun as there is more going on and you can enjoy time by the sea soaking up some sun and then meet up with friends for a drink and dinner.

I must say that it was a bit cozy to experience Sandhamn in the winter, as it was so very peaceful and tranquil, not overrun by tourists and it felt as we had the island all to ourselves to explore and spend the day away from the city.

I would say that it is by far one of the most touristy of the islands by both Swedes and foreigners. This might be due to the fact that it is only thirty miles off the coast of Stockholm and ferries run year round. The island is full of white sandy beaches as well as barren rocks along the sea. Many cliffs overlook the sea making it a idyllic place for a picnic or romantic afternoon out with a loved one. While sitting out on the beach or perched up on a rock, you are bound to see countless sailboats and kite surfers adorning the sea. Sandhamn also boasts tennis courts for those who prefer to get a little exercise out in the sun as well as horse back riding for all ages. As most of the archipelago, Sandhamn is abundant in nature and the island is perfect for hiking around or just taking a stroll through the forest and then ending up by the beach.

On Sandhamn you will find hotels, a bed & breakfast, a hostel as well as a hotel with a year round spa. The island is also home to a clubhouse and The Sandhamn Yacht Hotel, where you will find yourself stepping into luxury and being pampered. During the summer months, many restaurants and cafes are open including the local bakery where you can buy fresh sourdough bread or warm kanelbullar (cinnamon buns). The one restaurant you can count on being open all year is the The Sandhamn Yacht Hotel, which also boasts fine dining as well as a lounge. Every Friday and Saturday they host an after sail where you will be entertained all evening with a live band, DJ, and bar service on the jetty. It is simply the place to be come Friday night!

Photos from Sandhamn in both summer, and winter!

Talia Klundt is the Europe Editor for Wandering Educators 

The Archipelago Series:

Stockholm's Archipelago: Finnhamn

Stockholm's Archipelago: Fjäderholmarna

Stockholm's Archipelago: Muskö and Torö

Stockholm's Archipelago: Nåttarö

Stockholm's Archipelago: Sandhamn

Stockholm's Archipelago: Utö

Stockholm's Archipelago: Vaxholm