Embark on a 5-day self-guided kayak and wildcamping adventure in the stunning Saint Anna Archipelago of Sweden. Explore 6000 closely clustered islands, paddle freely, and immerse yourself in the rich history and natural beauty of the area.
Your expert local host will take care of all the logistics and equipment needed for
kayaking,
cooking,
sleeping
and
exploring
in this magical place. After a briefing on safety and navigation, you’re off on your own for a
true wilderness experience!
Wake up to an incredible view, eat some yummie breakfast, then pack up and explore the day away. The path you choose will be one never travelled before! Stop at your leisure to
swim
in
pristine coves, enjoy a beer and soak up the sun. In the evening, pick a deserted island to watch the sunset, and enjoy each others company around the campfire.
You’ll feel free….it’s as simple as that!
Day 1 – Into the maze
Our launch site is located in a sheltered bay - soon you see a maze of islands spreading out in all directions. You pass bird sanctuaries teeming with birdlife on your way northeast to the pretty islands around Aspöja. Sea Eagles are a common sight around here.
Day 2 – A band of islands against the horizon
Your next day is a beautiful paddle southeast through the barren, wind-pined islands of the outer archipelago. After a hard day you reach the old navigation mark Kupa Klint. It’s a great lookout with stunning views of the hundreds of islands below. Inside the outer band of skerries is the sheltered large island Missjö, ideal for camping. Local boat taxi man Mats runs a small pub on Missjö.
Day 3 – The village that time forgot
Continue your exploration south towards Harstena Village. You are greeted by a picturesque view of the village as you paddle the small inlet to the waterside restaurant. Harstena is famous for its idyllic and historic beauty. Visit the old school and seal processing factory, munch on delicious cinnamon swirls from the bakery or try hot-smoked fish from the local fisherman.
Day 4 – A wood-fired sauna on the sea
Head west through the narrow straight by Vaggön with its dramatic steep walls crashing into the water, and circle back up to Håskö. It’s one of the area’s last untouched homesteads. They are well-known for their fresh deboned perch and smoked salmon.
For a very small fee you can use the wood-fired sauna located right on the sea.
Day 5 – The abandoned copper mine
Paddle through the tiny straight by Kråkmarö - a secluded area with many traditional summer houses, aiming for Fångö. During the 19th century, Fångö was an important site for mining copper and there are many remains from the era.
Climb to the top of Gubbön navigation mark, opposite Fångö, to get a spectacular view of the Gryt Archipelago before heading west towards the mainland to the end point of your trip.
Points of Interest
-
Do the North
-
Fyrudden
- 24/7 Do the North service while kayaking
- Cell phone for weather reports & communication
- Top quality kayaking, camping & cooking gear
- Return transport Norrköping-Saint Anna
- Briefing on the area, navigation and safety
- Detailed guide book
- Food order - we shop and pack for you at cost price
- Food and drinks
- Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
- Flights
- Airport transfer to Norrköping
The quiet Saint Anna Archipelago on Sweden’s eastern shoreline is a veritable paradise for kayaking enthusiasts. No other place in Europe boasts a concentration of 6000 islands like this - a labyrinth extending from the forested, secluded islands near the mainland to the desolate islets that touch the boundless sea. It is a free-for-all for you to paddle and set up camp in the wild at your convenience!
This expedition is self-guided, and you have the freedom to plot your own path. Everything from premium equipment to a comprehensive guidebook is provided, along with round-the-clock support during your kayaking trip. Your pre-ordered groceries will be ready for you on arrival, and following a quick rundown on safety procedures, navigation skills, and knowledge about the area, you’re all set to take the plunge! It’s an ideal tour for novices and seasoned sea kayakers alike!
While the majority of the islands remain uninhabited, the archipelago has borne witness to many individuals calling it home for their entire lives. You’re free to choose what to explore - cultural landmarks, untamed wilderness, or, as is often the case, a mix of both!
- Minimum age 12, any young adults must be accompanied by an adult
- A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
- A maximum of 12 people per booking
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.