Have you seen Visit Sweden’s recent “Your Swedish Island” campaign, where lucky winners from around the globe get the exclusive rights to a private island for a year? It’s a fun idea and a brilliant initiative that really speaks our language. The one about luxury in the form of nature, privacy, and silence. But guess what? You don’t need to win a global competition to find your very own hidden gem.
Sweden has hundreds of thousands of islands, and if you are looking for nature-focused things to do in Stockholm this summer, our top tip is a micro-expedition on Lake Mälaren. By renting a kayak with us, you can quickly leave the city pulse behind and glide straight into the wilderness.
Uninhabited Gems in Lovön Nature Reserve
To truly find that feeling of total seclusion, we think you should head out on a slightly longer tour towards the islands of Lake Mälaren. Within just about a two-hour paddle from our docks, you’ll reach the area around beautiful Kärsön. Hidden here are small, completely uninhabited pearls like Krankholmen, Granholmen, and Tallholmen. Pulling your kayak up onto one of these smooth rock slabs, unpacking your own picnic, and gazing out over the water is an experience hard to match.
These islands are nestled within the scenic Lovön Nature Reserve. Thanks to the unique Swedish Right of Public Access (Allemansrätten), we have the freedom to roam almost anywhere. However, we always like to remind our guests that with freedom comes the responsibility to “not disturb and not destroy.” We always leave the islands just as untouched and beautiful as we found them, and if you spot any floating trash on your way out, please feel free to scoop it up!
Urban Outdoor and “Rugged Luxury”
Being outdoors is a powerful trend, often framed as “Rugged Luxury” – experiencing the wilderness in a comfortable and accessible way. With our All-Inclusive package, we make the threshold to the archipelago minimal. We provide a fully equipped premium kayak, all necessary safety gear, and a thorough technique and route briefing before you launch. All you have to do is pack your own favorite food and drinks, show up, and enjoy the adventure.
Research on the Blue Mind concept shows that our brains enter a deep, restorative state of rest when we are near water. This makes a full day in the kayak a really smart investment in your health.
Tips from the Dock
Our instructor Emil shares some good advice for your slightly longer island expedition: “When paddling out towards the Mälaren islands and Kärsön, you might encounter some wake from passing boats. The best trick is to relax your hips and let the kayak ride the water; if you tense up, it just gets wobbly. And a quick packing tip for your picnic: Always place the heaviest items, like water and drinks, at the bottom and near the center of the kayak. This will give you a super stable and safe journey out to your island!”
Safety on the Water
Safety is always our highest priority. Before you paddle away, we ensure you feel completely comfortable in the kayak. According to the Swedish Canoe Federation, the most important rules are simple but vital: always wear a life jacket, preferably paddle with a companion, and stay sober on the water.
Get ready to find your very own rock in our beautiful island world!
(Taggar: Rent kayak, Things to do in stockholm, Rent kayak stockholm, all inclusive kayak, stockholms archipelago islands, urban outdoor, lovöns naturreservat)
As the urban outdoor trend continues to grow globally, more and more international teams are looking to combine their business trips with genuine nature experiences. In our hyper-connected modern world, many of us operate in a stressed, overstimulated “Red Mind” state. The scientific antidote to this is the Blue Mind concept.
Coined by marine biologist Dr. Wallace J. Nichols through his extensive research, “Blue Mind” refers to the mildly meditative state people fall into when they are near, in, or on water. Paddling lowers cortisol levels and boosts feel-good hormones like serotonin and oxytocin.
This makes kayaking as a wellness activity an incredibly powerful investment in employee health. Furthermore, our corporate fund (företagspott) works perfectly as a tax-free fringe benefit (naturaförmån) under the Swedish Tax Agency’s guidelines, making it a smart and hassle-free choice when planning your next företagsevent stockholm (corporate event in Stockholm).
Micro-Expeditions in the Heart of the City
When searching for memorable things to do in Stockholm, nothing beats a guided micro-expedition. We love starting our journeys in the tranquil Pampas Marina. From there, we silently glide through the lush Karlbergskanalen towards the iconic City Hall. For teams seeking a slightly bigger adventure, we highly recommend a full tour around Kungsholmen, passing the beautiful island of Långholmen. For a truly peaceful nature experience, we can instead paddle towards the scenic and calm waters of Lillsjön.
Technique, Safety, and Caring for Nature
Safety and the environment are the core pillars of everything we do. Our expert instructor Johan loves to share his top technique tip with visiting teams: “Don’t just pull with your arms—engage your torso and use rotation for a smooth, effortless glide.” He’ll also let you in on a local secret: cloudy days are actually the absolute best days for photography out on the water, offering perfect lighting without the harsh glare!
Safety is non-negotiable; everyone wears a life jacket on our tours. Furthermore, our instructor Katarina always ensures we leave no trace, gently guiding the group to pick up any stray debris we might spot, leaving the beautiful waterways cleaner than we found them.
The end of February means winter sports holidays here in Sweden, and for many, the skiing season is at its peak. But for us at Lek Mer, the longer days mean only one thing: the ice will soon be breaking. Even if there’s still snow on the ground, it’s time to start planning for the paddling season. That is why we are thrilled to announce that bookings for this year’s kayaking courses are officially open!
Experiencing Stockholm from the water and gliding past the magnificent architecture around Kungsholmen is unbeatable. However, to truly enjoy nature in a safe and relaxed way, you need the right knowledge.
This Year’s News: Full-Day Courses
One of our main goals this year is to make it even easier for you to develop as a paddler. In addition to our classic schedules, we are now launching the option to take both our Basic Course and Intermediate Course as intensive full-day sessions. This is perfect for those who want to dive deep into learning and see massive progression in just one day.
All our courses launch from our educational hub at Pampas Marina in Solna. Here, we have access to calm waters that are optimal for building confidence and technique from the ground up. As an officially certified canoe center, we never compromise on safety. We place a huge emphasis on providing our participants with top-tier, reliable equipment that makes learning both fun and secure.
Local Trivia: Did you know that the water in Lake Mälaren is often at its absolute clearest in early spring, before the summer algae blooms? Granted, it’s not the Maldives, but you can actually see quite deep into the water next to your kayak if you squint a little!
Respecting Nature
Once you have completed a course with us and feel ready to explore everything from Lillsjön to the Lovön Nature Reserve, we always do so according to the Swedish Allemansrätten (Right of Public Access) golden rule: “do not disturb, do not destroy.” We always practice Leave No Trace, because even though nature is just waking up, it is highly sensitive during the spring.
Expert Tips for the Water: Care for Your Gear
If you own your own kayak, Emil Gyllenberg, one of Lek Mer’s founders and expert instructors, shares a vital tip before your spring premiere:
Lubricate the hatches: Take the time to give your rubber hatch covers some love during the winter so they remain watertight and supple. We highly recommend using 303 Aerospace Protectant for the best results.
Need professional help? Do you have hull damage or need to replace your deck lines? Remember that we can help you with almost anything at our workshop at Kajakverkstad.se.
Winter might still have the Swedish capital in its crisp grasp, but at Lek Mer, our sights are firmly set on warmer days and sun-glinting waters. We know the longing for nature grows stronger every day. That is why we are thrilled to announce our biggest news for the upcoming season: our new All-Inclusive Kayak Packages. This is the ultimate micro-expedition for anyone wanting to trade the city pulse for a night under the stars, completely hassle-free.
Calling Stockholm the Venice of the North is no exaggeration, and an urban paddle around Kungsholmen or the lush Långholmen is always spectacular. However, since pitching your tent along the popular Norr Mälarstrand promenade might not be the best idea, the goal of our new packages is to take you further out into nature. From our hub at Pampas Marina, we set course for the tranquility of Mälaröarna, Fågelön, and the Lovön Nature Reserve. It’s an incredible thought that just a two-hour paddle from central Stockholm can bring you to an island where you can set up camp for the evening.
Two Hubs for Summer Adventures As always, your experiences launch from our two locations, each offering something unique. Our spot at Eden (Smedsudden) is the heart of our spontaneous, urban paddling. Meanwhile, Pampas Marina in Solna serves as the exclusive starting point for our new All-Inclusive packages, as well as our base for courses and exploratory routes into hidden gems like Lillsjön or Bälstaån.
Local Trivia: If you linger by the docks at Eden at dusk, keep your eyes peeled – we are frequently treated to charming visits from local wild beavers swimming calmly by!
On Nature’s Terms with the Right Gear As we make it easier for more people to embark on multi-day trips, our commitment to environmental care and safety is more important than ever. As an officially certified canoe center, we never compromise. We place a huge emphasis on always providing top-tier equipment, using premium, Swedish-designed Melker kayaks alongside other high-quality brands. This ensures a ride that is highly secure, stable, and incredibly fun. Out on the islands, we operate strictly by the Swedish Allemansrätten (Right of Public Access) golden rule: “do not disturb, do not destroy.” By always practicing Leave No Trace, we ensure the only things left behind are our gentle ripples.
Expert Tips for the Water To help you get the most out of your summer tours, Emil Gyllenberg, one of Lek Mer’s founders and expert instructors, shares his top two tips:
Use your core: A common beginner mistake is using only your arms. By rotating your entire torso with each stroke, you paddle with more power and stamina—perfect for reaching your campsite.
The perfect shot: We all love sunny days, but for truly magical kayaking photos, cloudy days are a well-kept secret. The clouds act as a giant softbox, providing beautifully soft lighting!
Are you ready to dream of summer? Read more about our biggest news of the season.
Forget extreme expeditions and heavy gear. In 2026, outdoor life is all about recovery, community, and low barriers to entry — what trend analysts call “Soft Adventure“. Gliding through the Karlbergskanalen or circling Långholmen isn’t just exercise; it’s an aesthetic nature experience right in the heart of the concrete jungle.
At Lekmer, we believe that the better your technique, the more fun it is to protect the environment. Through our Environmental Engaged Paddling (MEP) concept, we integrate sustainability into every stroke. It’s not just about “leaving no trace”—it’s about actively strengthening your relationship with the waters you paddle.
Three ways to paddle greener this spring:
Casual Litter Picking: Keep a reusable bag in your cockpit for any plastic drifting by.
Respect the Wildlife: Paddle quietly and maintain distance from nesting birds along Mälaren’s shores.
Sustainable Gear Choice: We try to use products and brands that is pushing for sustainability in their field. Some examples are kayaks from Melker and paddles from Aquabound. Two world famous brands working hard to push the boarders of what is possible to do regards to sustainable production.
Master the Basics with Lekmer Experts
Curious about how to perform a stable entry or how to paddle efficiently without getting tired? Our certified instructors — Gerda, Joe, Elin, Ingrid and Emil — will guide you from “Yellow Level” (Intro) to advanced techniques. We focus on control and joy rather than pure performance.
“Kayaking is for everyone. It’s about finding peace and feeling that we belong in nature, even when we are in the middle of the city,” says Emil Gyllenberg, Head Instructor at Lekmer.
Save the Date: Paddling Day 2026
Don’t miss the highlight of the season! On Saturday, May 30th, 2026, we celebrate Paddling Day (Paddlingens dag) all over Sweden. Join us at Pampas/Eden for “try-out” sessions, technical workshops, and eco-fika.
Christmas is approaching and one of the year’s most cozy traditions is drawing near – the Lucia Paddle! It is a truly special experience to glide through Stockholm as darkness falls, illuminated by fairy lights, candles, and wonderful community.
Are you eager to join the grand Lucia procession on the water but lack your own winter gear? No problem. We at Lek mer kajak & SUP ensure you can enjoy the evening warm and safe.
We are now offering gear rentals specifically for this event. The package includes not only a Sea Kayak but also the most essential item for the season – a drysuit. With the right clothing, winter paddling becomes a pure joy and you will stay dry and happy throughout the tour.
This is a perfect opportunity to experience the magic of winter paddling in a safe and atmospheric setting. Secure your gear today via our booking page and we’ll see you in the crowd!
Time and place: All detailed information regarding the meeting point, route, and times can be found in the official Facebook event: Luciapaddling Stockholm
Book a SUP or BIG SUP and join us for a movie screening on the water
We depart at 18:00 from Eden Kayak & SUP; the movie begins at 19:00
The movie is 2 hours long, and we expect to be back by 22:00 at the latest
Snacks?
Of course, feel free to bring snacks and your choice of beverage. However, we recommend a maximum of one alcoholic drink since we are on the water.
Our instructors will be on the water to help with positioning to ensure the best possible experience. However, please keep in mind that being on the water means waves and wind always add an element of adventure, so we cannot guarantee a perfectly static position.
Bring swimwear; it looks like it will be a warm and lovely evening with perfect conditions for a movie on the water!
We are finally launching Group SUP again! Every Wednesday throughout the summer, we gather for social stand-up paddling in Stockholm. This is a perfect activity for those looking to meet new people, discover paddling technique at a relaxed pace, and have fun on the water – whether you are a beginner or an experienced paddler.
Group SUP is our social paddling evening where we choose a route together and conclude with a shared drink at Eden. No prior experience is required; the only requirement is that you can swim. We learn from and with each other in a safe and supportive environment!
Price: 299 SEK (including board rental) When: Wednesdays throughout the summer, 18:00 Location: Eden Kajak & SUP, Smedsudden, Stockholm
If you have ever bought or rented a sea kayak, you have certainly been asked – do you want a rudder or a skeg?
Countless discussions have explored this question, and the interesting thing is that there isn’t one single answer. It simply depends on what you plan to do!
Without either a rudder or a skeg, your sea kayak will naturally want to turn into the wind. This means that unless you’re one of those who loves paddling into a headwind, you’ll need to compensate for the wind’s effect on your sea kayak, which can be tiring for the body over time.
But which is right for you: a rudder or a skeg? And how do they actually work?
How does a rudder work on a sea kayak?
On a sea kayak, the rudder is located at the stern and is deployed into the water when needed. It is connected by rudder lines to pedals in the cockpit, allowing you to easily control the steering with your feet. Press right to turn right, or left to turn left.
The image above shows a simplified view of how a rudder works. When the paddler presses the pedal with their right foot, the rudder angles to the right (upward in the image). Water then flows against the rudder, directing the water to the right. The force from the water is transferred to the stern of the sea kayak, which then moves to the left (downward). The sea kayak turns right, though it is actually the stern moving to the left.
Since the water flow provides the force to turn, the sea kayak must be moving forward for a rudder to work. The more speed you have, the more hydrodynamic force is generated = faster turns.
How does a skeg work on a sea kayak?
A skeg is a “fin” located in the stern of the sea kayak. It can be adjusted up and down but does not move sideways like a rudder. Therefore, the skeg is primarily used to compensate for the wind’s effect on the sea kayak, while you use your paddle and various steering strokes to turn your sea kayak.
A common misconception is that a skeg is either just “on” or “off.” In reality, it is a precision tool that you can fine-tune to make your sea kayak behave exactly as you wish, regardless of the weather conditions.
The rule of thumb I usually teach during our safety courses is that if you want to turn up into the wind, you should pull up your skeg (slide the control forward). If you want to turn away from the wind, you should put down your skeg (pull the control towards you). In other words—if you want to paddle straight but feel your sea kayak turning into the wind, lower the skeg slightly. If it turns away from the wind, raise the skeg. This way, you can fine-tune until your sea kayak tracks straight regardless of wind conditions.
To truly learn and understand, I recommend experimenting to see if you can turn your sea kayak using only the skeg. This is an excellent exercise for gaining an intuitive feel for how the skeg works. Personally, I am always active with it while paddling, fine-tuning so my sea kayak always behaves exactly as I want.
The theory behind weathercocking (advanced level)
The reason a sea kayak turns into the wind—known as weathercocking—is because the bow (the front of the sea kayak) gets “stuck” in fresh water as it moves forward, while the stern slides through turbulent water and becomes much easier to move sideways. As a result, when the wind hits the sea kayak, the bow is harder to move than the stern, causing the sea kayak to turn into the wind. Or more accurately, the stern moves away from the wind faster than the bow does.
When we deploy the skeg, we make it harder for the stern to move sideways. Once we reach equilibrium—where it’s equally difficult to move the stern and the bow sideways—the sea kayak will maintain a straight course.
Rudder or Skeg – Which should I choose?
As you now know, a skeg and a rudder are two very different tools, and comparing them directly is difficult. It simply comes down to your personal paddling style and how you plan to use your sea kayak.
If you prefer focusing on forward paddling and moving efficiently through the water, I would recommend a sea kayak equipped with a rudder. If you enjoy a more playful style, using your body and edging to steer, I recommend a sea kayak with a skeg.
Personally, I enjoy paddling with just a skeg when I am out for a day trip. For longer expeditions or major crossings, I prefer the added control of a rudder.
When you are looking to buy a sea kayak, it simply comes down to how you plan to use it. Today, many sea kayaks are equipped with both a skeg and a rudder, which is very practical as you do not have to choose. Personally, I currently paddle a Melker Rödlöga that has both a rudder and a skeg. The rudder is retracted in most situations as I find it more joyful to focus on my paddling technique with only the skeg, and I am even considering removing it.
Which do you prefer to use most for your paddling adventures?
Stockholm – a city on the water. Few cities in the world offer such a unique combination of vibrant city life and tranquil nature as our beautiful capital. What better way to experience this contrast than from a kayak, gliding along glimmering waterways, with historic buildings and lush parks as your backdrop?
In this tour guide, I take you on a kayak tour around Långholmen and Reimersholme, a tour suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Here awaits an exciting mix of history, culture and nature experiences, all within easy reach of Stockholm city center and our rental Eden Kayak & SUP.
Preparation and Practical Information
The tour starts at Eden Kayak & SUP, an idyllic oasis in the middle of Kungsholmen. Here you will be met by our knowledgeable staff who will help you with kayak and equipment. After a short review of safety and paddling techniques, it’s time to get out on the water.
Tips:
Direction: You want a tailwind on Riddarfjärden when you paddle around Långholmen, so choose your route according to the wind. Ask our staff on site about the best route for the day.
Rest areas: There are several places to take a break. Make sure to bring water and snacks! Some of the best places for a break include Långholmens klippbad or any jetty in the canal between Långholmen and Reimersholme.
Alternative routes: This tour has 2 different alternative routes. Either you choose to just paddle around Långholmen, or if you want to paddle a little further, you can add to also paddle around Reimersholme.
Highlights of paddling around Långholmen
Långholmen has worn many hats over the years. It was once home to a notorious prison, which operated from the 18th century until 1975. The legendary Lasse-Maja was imprisoned here, among others. Today, the prison has been converted into a unique hotel, where guests can sleep in the old cells.
But Långholmen is much more than just its prison history. Today, the island is a popular recreational area with something for everyone. There are lush parks perfect for picnics and relaxation, swimming spots for those who want to take a dip, and even a dog bath where our four-legged friends can cool off in the summer heat.
I have selected some highlights and described them in chronological order for those paddling clockwise around the island.
1. Långholmens klippbad – a dog bath in the middle of town
As you start your paddle along the northern side of Långholmen, you pass a headland with beaches on both sides. Here you’ll find Långholmen’s dog & rock bath, a place where dogs and their owners are welcome to swim and run freely. The northeastern part of Långholmen where the bath is located is one of Stockholm’s dog walking areas, here dogs are allowed to walk without a leash and run freely (as long as their owners have full control over them).
2. Pålsundet – a living maritime environment
Once you have passed the eastern tip of Långholmen and the marina, you will enter the lush and beautiful Pålsundet.
Pålsundet is a unique marine environment in the middle of Stockholm, a place where the wings of history meet the pulse of today. Charming wooden boats from different eras line the quays, creating a picturesque and vibrant atmosphere.
Pålsundet is an important part of Stockholm’s maritime heritage. It is home to a unique collection of historic Swedish pleasure boats, framed by lush greenery. It is a place where you can experience the city’s maritime history up close.
When gliding slowly through Pålsundet, don’t forget to keep to the right as there are many boats passing in the narrow channel.
Read more about the Sound and the boats you see here
A dramatic event in Långholmen’s recent history is the crash of a JAS Gripen plane during an air show in 1994. The pilot managed to eject and was unharmed, but the plane crashed on the island and was totally destroyed. The incident attracted a lot of attention and is now part of Långholmen’s history.
When you come out of Pålsundet, you land in a small oasis of your own where we also come to a choice of route. Here you can choose to paddle a little further and round Reimersholme, or you can continue straight ahead along Långholmen. The large yellow buildings you see to the right on Långholmen are the old prison mentioned earlier.
4. Reimersholme – from liquor production to artistic oasis
Reimersholme is a former industrial island that was once known for its liquor production. Reimersholms Spritförädlings AB, which was founded in 1879 by Lars Olsson Smith, was located here. The factory produced, among other things, the well-known “Absolut Rent Brännvin”, now known worldwide as Absolut Vodka.
Today, liquor production is a thing of the past, and Reimersholme has been transformed into a creative and relaxed oasis. There are studios, galleries, cozy cafés and open jetties for anyone who wants to enjoy summer in Stockholm.
5. Riddarfjärden – The Blue Heart of Stockholm
After rounding the western tip of Långholmen, you’ll once again come out on the riddarfjärden. If you continue to follow Långholmen until you reach the red dot (red stick in the water) you will have one of Stockholm’s best photo opportunities. You’ll see the City Hall beautifully framed in the arch of Västerbron. Take the opportunity to take a picture!
It’s a powerful sight, with the City Hall, Riddarholm Church and the Royal Palace as majestic silhouettes against the sky.
Riddarfjärden is truly the blue heart of Stockholm, a place where the city’s history and beauty come together. The water sparkles with the sun, and the historic buildings are reflected in its surface. It’s a view that etches itself into your memory and fills you with awe.
6. Västerbron – a modern icon
In the midst of this historical setting, Västerbron towers up, a modern icon that connects Kungsholmen and Södermalm.
Västerbron is not only an important traffic route, but also a popular place for walking and sightseeing. From the bridge you have a great view of Riddarfjärden and the Stockholm city skyline. It’s a place to stop and admire the beauty of the city, and feel the presence of history.
Now it’s time to take you back to our little oasis on Eden, hope you had a magical trip!
Kayak rentals to paddle around Långholmen
If you want to rent a kayak or SUP and paddle around Långholmen, there are several different kayak rentals located in good locations. All have slightly different offers.
Eden Kajak & SUP – Approved canoe center located at Rålis (Rålambshovsparken). Invests in good equipment and high service.
Pampas Kayak & SUP – Located in Pampas marina, opposite Hornsbergsstrand and, like Eden, has a focus on high quality equipment that provides a more enjoyable experience on the water.
Stockholm SUP – Located at gröndal opposite Reimersholme, has stable and slightly more fun kayaks & SUP.
Långholmen kayak – Located on Långholmen and focuses on stable plastic kayaks.
The paddle around Långholmen is becoming what I would call a modern classic when it comes to kayak & SUP tours in Stockholm. It’s just long enough for everyone to be able to do it, while it has elements of everything from history to nature and city feeling.
Wishing you an amazing tour as you explore new perspectives of Stockholm from your kayak!
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