Sweden: Baltic Coastal Walk

Often referred to as the ‘Venice of the North’, Stockholm is unquestionably a unique and beautiful city all year round, not only due to its location on 14 islands with its infinite presence of water, but also because of its combination of nature, colourful architecture and ancient history. Today you can choose to take a walk through Stockholm’s unique national city park - the world’s first national park to be located within a bustling city. The city park is a green oasis combining cultural heritage and natural features. Hike through ancient forests, visit palaces and bathe from waterside rocks - right here, in the city centre! Alternatively concentrate on the vibrant ‘Söder’ region of Stockholm and walk the many quaint alleys, passing historic cottages and churches and a handful of impressive viewpoints across the city. Hiking Distance: 6-20 km (flexible & optional)

This morning you are transfered to Tyresta national park - a protected area with trees dating back over 400 years, sparkling forest lakes and a wealth of wildlife. Deer roam freely throughout the day whilst moose wait their turn as dusk falls. Hike the trails through the endless forests of pine and birch, taking a refreshing dip as you pass by one of the many lakes. Find the perfect spot and enjoy the peace, tranquility and wonderful nature of Stockholm’s national park. You then continue on towards the idyllic village of Dalarö, your first taste of Stockholm’s extensive archipelago. Tomorrow you have more time to explore Dalarö's picturesque narrow streets but you might find time to swim from the local sandy beach before taking the bus the short distance to your accommodation for the night at Smådalarö. Hiking Distance: 14-18km/8.75-11.25mi Bus: Dalarö to Smådalarö 10 mins

This morning, you take the local bus back to Dalarö, and enjoy a few hours to explore the village following our self-guided walk through its picturesque narrow streets of colourful wooden houses. Don’t miss a walk up to the beautiful viewpoint on Lotsberget with beautiful views across the archipelago. Back in the harbour you then catch the small boat and head out amongst the thousands of islands that make up the southern part of Stockholm’s archipelago, a seemingly endless archipelago of 24,000 glorious islands lying right on Stockholm’s doorstep. Stretching some 80 km east of Stockholm deep into the Baltic waters, it formed during the last Ice Age and is today considered to be one of the world’s natural wonders. Your first stop takes you to the exotic island of Huvudskär. Due to its location in the outer reaches of the archipelago you will be one of the few to venture this far. You walk in an untouched environment and enjoy its magical light that captivates artists. The lighthouse still stands and the customs house is today a small hostel. If you’re lucky you might spot seals or sea eagles souring in the skies above. Explore all corners of this small island, hugging its shoreline and enjoying the far-reaching views out to sea. Next stop Estonia! You then island hop to Kymmendö on your way back, where August Strindberg spent many a summer and inspired his novel Hemsöborna. Your last stop today is to the holiday island of Utö where you spend the next three nights. Hiking Distance: 10km/6.25mi Boat trips: Dalarö to Huvudskär 1 hr; Huvudskär to Kymmendö 45 mins; Kymmendö to Utö 15 min Bus: Smådalarö to Dalarö 10 mins

Today you enjoy your first day on Utö island to enjoy its bustle and picturesque scenery. Bikes are included so you can cycle the length of the island, crossing over a bridge to the small island of Ålö where your hike takes place today. Cling to its rocky coast as you enjoy non-stop sea views and impressive viewpoints along the way. You also pass its delightful white sand beach plus seaside fish restaurant for a touch of local charm. Then its back on the bikes to Utö’s busy village. (Note a taxi is also available instead of bikes and can be arranged on site). Hiking: 10 km/6.25mi

This morning you take the short boat ride over to Ornö for the start of your hike along its western shore. Ornö is the largest island in the southern archipelago and has traditionally been less exploited for tourism than some of its neighbouring islands and remains today an island with a living community yet to be discovered by large-scale tourism. Your hike today takes you through the nature reserve, passing forest, open landscape and coastal scenery and beautiful viewpoints along the way, including the very impressive Telegrafberget view tower, the southern archipelago’s highest point. From here you hike a loop back to Ornö Kyrka (option to take the local bus) Ornö's small village with its picturesque church and local museum where you are welcome to visit the local museum for an afternoon tea break. Time permitting you can also hike Levassastigen heritage trail with information boards explaining the cultural history of the island. You then take the boat back from Ornö Kyrka to Utö. Hiking distance: 10-16km/6.25-10mi Boat trips: Utö to Ornö 50 mins; Ornö to Utö 50 mins, Bus: Ornö Kyrka to Sundby 10 mins; Brevik to Ornö Kyrka 10 mins

This morning, you have the chance to visit Utö village where you can head up to the windmill built in 1791 to enjoy one of Utö’s best views. Alternatively, visit the mine museum and learn about the interesting history of this mining community. You also have time to explore Uto nature reserve on foot along a beautiful coastal trail, which offers varying lengths of hike so you might choose to also fit in a tour on sea kayaks. As well as wonderful sea views you pass sandy beaches and smooth rocks perfect for sunbathing or enjoying a picnic lunch in the fresh sea air. You then board the archipelago boat and enjoy a boat trip passing island after island as you journey back to the buzz of Stockholm city. Hiking: 5-11km/3-7mi Optional activities: sea kayaking Boat trip: Utö to Stockholm 4 hrs

Trip concludes after breakfast.