Nämdö Archipelago National Park – Guide to Sweden's newest archipelago paradise

When Stockholm's outer archipelago is added to Sweden's first marine national park in the Baltic Sea, it sets a new standard for how we experience our unique coastal nature. The Nämdö archipelago, which was established as a national park in 2025/2026, is a vast realm of just over 1,300 islands, islets and skerries, around 97 percent of which is sea. Here you will encounter mighty granite outcrops, windswept pines, a rich birdlife and a deep cultural history that stretches back centuries.

But what does it really take to experience this coastal wilderness in the best way? The sea and the outer archipelago place completely different demands on equipment and planning than a forest walk on the mainland. The weather can change in a matter of minutes, the distances to the nearest shop are long and boat transport is an absolute requirement. In this guide, we sort out everything you need to know before your visit to Sweden's newest national park.

How to get out into Sweden's newest marine national park

Because the Nämdö archipelago is located far out in the ocean, you cannot get here by car or bicycle. Boat transport is necessary, regardless of whether you choose a regular tour boat or your own boat and kayak.

The most common starting point for those traveling by public transport is to take SL bus 433 or 434 from Slussen to Stavsnäs winter harbour. From there, you can board one of the connected tour boats, such as the Bullerölinjen which operates between Bullerö and Rågskär during high season.

If you are traveling with your own boat or sea kayak, it is important to keep a close eye on the nautical chart and the weather report. The outer archipelago is fantastic for paddling and boating, but the open sea requires both experience and the right safety equipment.

Bullerö – The historic heart and hub of the National Park

The main entrance and natural hub of the national park is Bullerö . This iconic island offers a perfect blend of magnificent nature and fascinating cultural history.

During the early 20th century, the island was strongly influenced by the artist Bruno Liljefors, who used the islands as his studio and hunting ground. His old hunting lodge today functions as a popular museum where visitors can experience the wings of history. Later, the estate came into the ownership of financier Torsten Kreuger, who further left his mark on the island's buildings and traditions. History from the 13th century onwards testifies that people have lived off and with this demanding archipelago landscape for centuries.

At Bullerö you will also find the park's most well-developed service:

• Guesthouse and rest house: A warm rest house open all year round to cook brought food, as well as a guesthouse in the village during high season.
• Sauna and swimming: A wood-fired sauna that is open to the public and nice swimming opportunities at Zarah's beach.
• Hiking trails: There are several nice options here, such as the historic Brunos loop , the short and easy Kostigen , as well as more challenging tours such as Bullerö Runt (approx. 3 km) and Sydudden runt which take you out onto the sun-warmed cliffs.

Rågskär and Långviksskär – Excursion to the wildest outposts of the outer archipelago

When you want to get even further away from civilization, the more peripheral gems of the national park await.

Rye-skar

Rågskär is one of the park's main islands and offers a more rugged, more original outer archipelago feel. Here is a well-preserved archipelago home that is classified as a listed building. The island lacks the wider range of services of Bullerön, making it an ideal destination for those seeking total silence and proximity to the sea.

Långvikskär

Långviksskär was previously a valued nature reserve and now forms a central part of the national park (where a smaller part still retains reserve status). The area is characterized by shallow bays, coves and traces from historical times, including remains from World War II. The wildlife and birdlife here is incredibly rich, which also means that some parts of the waters and islands may be closed to access during sensitive breeding periods.

Pack right for the conditions of the outer archipelago: Wind, rain and sun

A basic rule in the archipelago is that the weather dictates the conditions. Sunshine can be replaced by a strong easterly gale and whipping sea water within half an hour. Therefore, it is crucial to pack smartly and functionally rather than heavily.

When you're going on day trips or multi-day adventures, we recommend a reliable and comfortable daypack that can hold the essentials. Here are the most important equipment details for the Nämdö archipelago:

1. Windbreaker and rainwear: The outer archipelago is practically always exposed to wind. A good windbreaker will keep the cold away on the slopes, and proper rainwear is an absolute must when the sea splashes over the railing.
2. Binoculars: With thousands of islands and a rich marine bird and seal life, a light and handy pair of binoculars is a must in your pack to be able to fully enjoy the wildlife and nature without disturbing it.
3. Sunscreen and a hat: On the bare granite slabs there is little shade available on sunny summer days. Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat are as essential as a shell jacket.

Practical tips and rules for the visit

The fact that the Nämdö Archipelago has become a national park means that the rules are designed to protect the sensitive marine environment for the future. The right of public access works a little differently here:

• No drinking water on the islands: There is no commercial sale of food or water in the national park. You must bring all the drinking water you need for your stay.
• Fires: Fires are only permitted in prepared fireplaces or on barbecues with bones. Fires directly on fragile rock outcrops are strictly prohibited.
• Camping: Camping is possible in designated areas on, for example, Bullerö, but remember to limit the time in the same place to protect the land.
• Speed limits: If you are driving your own boat, a maximum of 5 knots applies within 100 meters of land in large parts of the park to reduce wave surge and erosion.
• Drones: Drone flying is not permitted within the national park to protect the sensitive bird and animal life.

Before you head out towards the horizon, we recommend that you check out our other guides in the blog archive for more inspiration on outdoor activities and equipment. With the right preparations, a well-packed bag and respect for the forces of nature, an unforgettable experience awaits in Sweden's newest archipelago paradise.