With around 100,000 lakes, myriad winding rivers and a long coastline dotted with thousands of islands, Sweden is made for adventures on water. From north to south, and east to west, there’s a vast array of canoeing and kayaking options, including city paddling in Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö. Whether you’re drifting through the tranquil southern waters of Skåne or tackling the rapid rivers around the Arctic Circle, kayaking is a wonderful way to discover all that this stunning country has to offer. What’s more, you don’t need to be a crack kayaker to sign up for many of the tours; there are adventures and experiences to suit all skill levels. Let’s take a closer look at kayaking in Sweden.
When’s the Best Time to go Kayaking in Sweden?
You can kayak at any time of the year in Sweden. It’s even possible in winter, particularly along the more sheltered west coast, but it can be dangerous for beginners given the ultra-cold water and dark days. Summer is the obvious time to go, when the weather is better, the water warmer and the days longer. In the north of the country, you can still be paddling in daylight at midnight in June and July. The downside is that the waterways tend to be busier – both with people and with midges and mosquitos, so insect repellent is a must. Those hoping to avoid the crowds may prefer to visit early in June, or later in August. And in the south, spring and autumn can be lovely – provided you’ve got the right equipment. You may well have the waterways to yourself, and the colours will be stunning.
Tour options
Beginners are advised to start with a short and sweet kayaking session with an experienced guide, whether your trip is city-based or in Sweden’s stunning wilderness. Or, if you’re a confident kayaker, there are opportunities to set up self-guided tours with kayaks, maps and other essentials provided. You can also rent camping equipment and book food packages to keep you sheltered and well fed while you’re exploring off the beaten track.
Where are the Best Places to go Kayaking in Sweden?
Perhaps the biggest – and potentially the most difficult – factor impacting your experience is choosing where to go. There are countless places to explore, depending on your skill level, and your wish-list.
Northern Sweden: For Wild Rivers and Coastal Highs
Swedish Lapland is home to the country’s wildest rivers. The Torne, Ume, Kalix and Lule cut through ravines, giant Arctic plains and marshes on their way to the Gulf of Bothnia. The highest coastline in the world, Höga Kusten, offers kayaking above the Arctic Circle, where the midnight sun lights up the sky 24/7 in summer, so you’ll have more time to explore the stunning scenery.
Southern Sweden: For Tranquil Waters and Birdwatching
Some regions of Sweden are particularly suited to beginners. The southern province of Skåne is ideal for anyone who wants to kayak on placid waterways while admiring the natural scenery and squeezing in a spot of birdwatching. The most popular route in this area is Immeln, a lake featuring some 200 islands, where visitors can kayak, fish, camp, and even cook outdoors. If dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea are on your bucket list, the nature reserve of Kullaberg is the place for you. Keep your eyes open for the region’s beautiful white storks.
Western Sweden: For Leisurely Lake and Sea Kayaking
Water lovers heading west will find Värmland’s 10,000 lakes perfect for paddling. Sweden’s longest river, Klarälven, meanders through the entire province before flowing into Vänern, the country’s largest lake, while the Glaskogen Nature Reserve is home to 80 pristine lakes and waterways. Those with more time can consider sea kayaking across the western coast of Sweden, visiting the Gothenburg Archipelago and Bohuslän coast. Bohuslän facilitates a plethora of outdoor activities across its stunning archipelago, nature reserves and marine national park, where trusted organisers offer everything from kayak rentals to guided tours and courses, as well as niche experiences such as ‘kayoga’ (you get the gist).
Eastern Sweden: For Stunning Archipelagos and National Parks
On the east coast, outdoor enthusiasts can head to archipelagos like Stockholm, St. Annas, Gryt and Tjust. With around 30,000 islands, it's hard to imagine a better landscape to explore by sea kayak than the Stockholm Archipelago. Close to the city, the archipelago is tranquil and very beautiful, and you can discover this unique place for yourself on a kayak whether you’re a complete novice or an experienced paddler. Further down the coast, Lake Åsnen in Småland is Sweden’s newest national park and it’s brimming with islands, forests and wetlands. Committed kayakers can even traverse the 75-mile-long route staying over at campsites along the way.
City Paddling in Stockholm, Malmö and Gothenburg
Those visiting Sweden’s main cities will find no shortage of kayaking options. Stockholm, Malmö and Gothenburg all offer rental canoes and kayaks to explore urban canals, waterways, and islands. Stockholm city tours are ideal for beginners and experienced kayakers alike. You’ll paddle way out into the bay, where you can enjoy splendid views of Sweden’s beautiful capital. In Malmö, the Turning Torso skyscraper and the imposing Oresund Bridge will be your backdrop as you skim over the city canals. And in Gothenburg, guided tours on the calm waters of Säveån present a new side to the city. It’s also possible to paddle to the Southern Archipelago and islands like Brännö where you can break for coffee and pastries – known as ‘fika’ – another quintessentially Swedish pastime.