The Swedish city that’s also a 33,000-isle archipelago has become the new capital of Scandi-cool, with wondrous lakeside golf to appease every golfer.
Why Stockholm?
A city that has been battling Copenhagen for the Scandi capital of cool, not only has a burgeoning food scene, but being a 30,000-islet/island archipelago makes it a destination quite unlike any other. You can kayak your way to hidden sandy-shored islands, sail the Baltic, and then return for golf by the likes of Robert Trent Jones Jr in spectacular lakeside locations, before sampling one of Europe’s culinary capitals.
What to do
It’s not in every city that you can kayak (or canoe or paddleboard) your way past the town hall or the old town, taking in palaces and parks, before heading off to find your own deserted island for a picnic or maybe a night under the stars.
Stockholm and its 30,000-strong national park archipelago are truly unique. You can go from the centre of Sweden’s capital and onto a sandy-shored island in the Baltic Sea, all under your own paddle power. How far you go depends on you [and your fitness] as the islands stretch for 60km beyond the city, although you can also opt for chartered sailing to ease the load. Sail or paddle past ancient villages, thickly wooded islands and rugged, rocky islets, getting up close to a myriad of wildlife from grey and ringed seals to white-tailed eagles and eagle owls.
Where to stay
The Grand Hôtel, a legendary five-star hotel overlooking the city’s Old Town, has been welcoming bon vivants since 1874.
Where to play
On the water’s edge, you’ll find Ullna Golf & Country Club on Lake Ullna, just 12km north of Stockholm. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this compact, challenging course in beautiful surroundings is considered one of northern Europe’s finest. The Swedes are mad about golf, and it shows in the quality of the courses, which also includes Bro Hof Slott’s Stadium course by Robert Trent Jones Jr, built on what was once a medieval royal estate and now considered the country’s top course, although, in truth, you’re spoilt for choice here.
Let us curate Stockholm for you
Explore the archipelago, tour the very best in Scandinavian cuisine, take a cultural tour of the Swedish capital and fit in some world-class golf. However you’d like to discover Stockholm, we can tailor an experience to meet your exacting needs.
