OK, before we went to Sweden, I knew Stockholm had some islands. I didn’t know there were thirty thousand islands and inlets. I’d read that we should get up early, because viewing the archipelago was supposed to be unforgettable. Oh, it was.
Because the ship was so close to land, we moved much more slowly, and all you could hear was the gentle lapping of the waves and a distant hum. It was so peaceful sitting on the balcony, sipping coffee. I loved it. Loved it.
We’d gotten up at 4 a.m. (as usual, thanks to the crazy time changes) so I walked over to the other side of the ship to catch the sunrise…
Then we floated past island after island after island….
The little buildings near the water? I’m pretty sure those are saunas. Swedes and Finns are really into saunas.
I love the way the sunlight is hitting this one.
There are over 50,000 vacation homes ranging from one-room cottages to full-scale villas. Camping, hostels and rentals are common, as well as nicer hotels.
One of the many islets.
Taxi boats and ferries are plentiful in the archipelago. In the summer, residents take advantage of Allemansrätt (or “everyman’s right”) a law which gives anyone the right to go ashore or anchor on any ground not in the direct vicinity of buildings.
I would have no trouble spending a summer here.
Aren’t the houses beautiful?
Incidentally, my friend and I studied the route of our cruise beforehand and noted that most of the sights were on the right, or starboard side of the ship. If you’re not sure, be sure to ask the person who books the cruise for you.
Hope your week’s going well so far.
{carole}
Pearls & Prose 
Any of those islands would ‘do’ for me !
Oh, same here, Susan!
I just loved this post, Carole! Such beautiful photos. Just thinking that those little buildings are saunas makes me smile. I read somewhere that each of the inhabited islands has mail delivery by boat in the summer. For me, the archipelago is one of the main draws in a visit to Stockholm. I I hope I get to visit soon.
Thanks so much, Jackie! I wish I’d known about the archipelago sooner. Would love to go back.
Loved this post, as it shows something rarely seen of Stockholm. Beautiful photos, as always.
Thanks, Meg. 🙂
I’d go back in a minute Carole – beautiful pictures as always
I would really like to spend more time in Sweden, Mary Beth. Denmark too.
I agree with Jackie, loved this post as well. You’ve done a few great ones about your trip but this might be my favourite. Would love to visit. Maybe this year.
Everything together is so lovely. I didn’t know about the islands either.
Glad you enjoyed it, Caroline. This was definitely one of the highlights of the trip.
You’re so lucky to be close to all this!
Yes, but funny enough you’re the one getting there. 🙂
nice and beautiful 🙂
Thank you. 🙂