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Paddle around Kungsholmen, or just get out for a while?
Paddle around Kungsholmen, or just get out for a while?
Summer has started well at the dock.
We notice it in the questions people ask. People want to get out after work, bring someone who has never paddled before, or do something more than just lie in the sun. And quite often, the same question comes up:
Can you paddle around Kungsholmen?
Yes, you can. Kungsholmen around is a real Stockholm classic. But it is not always the best first plan. Sometimes it is much better to paddle around Langholmen and Reimersholme, or into Lillsjon, get a feel for the water, and turn back with plenty of margin.
That is also a real tour.
Kungsholmen around
The full loop around Kungsholmen is about 10 kilometers. It is a beautiful route when the weather is good, the group feels stable in the kayaks, and you have a pace that works.
If you paddle at a decent pace, you can absolutely get around in two hours in most weather. If you do, you also get to draw a line on our Kungsholmen around board, which we have at both Pampas and Eden.
But many people have a better experience when the full loop is not the goal.
If someone in the group is new, if the wind is stronger than expected, or if you mostly want a good moment on the water, a shorter tour is often the right choice. It is not a failure. It is simply good judgement.
If you want to see the full route before deciding, our route tip is here: https://lekmer.nu/en/turtips/around-kungsholmen-a-kayak-tour-through-stockholm-history/
You can also watch our Swedish video about the Kungsholmen route here:

A good two-hour tour from Eden
From Eden at Smedsudden, you quickly get out onto water that feels very much like Stockholm. You have Vasterbron close by, Langholmen straight ahead, and Reimersholme around the corner.
For a normal two-hour rental, a good plan can be:
- start calmly from Eden
- paddle towards Langholmen or Reimersholme
- keep the group together and feel the wind
- enjoy the beautiful Langholmen canal
It sounds simple, and that is the point.
You do not need to maximize the distance to have a good paddle. Often it is enough to leave the dock, take a few calm strokes, see Stockholm from water level, and return without chasing the clock.
When is the full loop right?
Kungsholmen around is best when you have paddled a bit before, the weather is stable, and you want a clearer city tour.
Then you get a good mix of bridges, quays, greener sections, and city water. It is a route where Stockholm changes character several times along the way. It is also a route where wind, boat traffic, and pace matter.
If the goal really is the full loop, we recommend arriving in good time and talking to the staff at the dock before you head out. Sometimes we say: go for it. Sometimes we say: take a shorter tour today. And sometimes it is smarter to book more time, especially if you want to paddle without stress.
Cloudy weather can be really good
The sky does not have to be clear blue for the paddling to be good.
A sunny day is perfect, but cloudy weather can be just as good, sometimes even better. There may be fewer boats, a calmer feeling on the water, and a more relaxed pace from the dock.
We care more about the wind. We check weather and wind throughout the day and are happy to help you choose a route that fits. A good paddle should feel alive, but not uncertain.
Eden or Pampas?
Both of our locations work well as starting points when you want to paddle around Kungsholmen. Choose Pampas if you arrive by car and want easier parking, or if you come from north of the city and it is closer. Choose Eden if it is closer and you are not coming by car.
Book a kayak
If you just want to get out for a while, book two hours and choose the route based on weather, experience, and how the day feels.
If you want to paddle the full loop around Kungsholmen, tell the staff when you arrive. Then we will help you decide whether the day is right and whether two hours is realistic for your group.
If someone in the group is unsure, nervous, or completely new to kayaking, an introduction or course may be better than normal rental. Not because renting a kayak is difficult, but because the first tour is much more enjoyable when the start feels safe.
See you at the dock.
June 3, 2026
PADDLA! at the Maritime Museum: paddling history meets today’s Stockholm
On 22 May, the Maritime Museum in Stockholm opens its new exhibition PADDLA!. It is about the history of paddling, the freedom of being on the water, and the responsibility that comes when more people head out in kayaks, canoes and on SUP boards.
For us at LEK MER, this is especially nice. Emil appears in the exhibition in short technique and safety videos where visitors can see the basics: how to get in and out of a kayak, paddle calmly and handle common situations on the water.
Why a paddling exhibition feels right in Stockholm
It is easy to think of paddling as something you book on a warm summer day. But it is bigger than that.
It is about how we move through the city, how we get close to the water, and how we learn to use nature without taking it for granted. In Stockholm, this is especially clear. Water is part of everyday life here, but for many people there is still a first step before going out feels natural.
That is why it feels good to see the Maritime Museum create an exhibition that does not only show objects and history, but also brings in the feeling, the body and the responsibility of paddling.
What PADDLA! is about
According to the Maritime Museum, the exhibition follows paddling from long historical journeys to today’s outdoor life. Visitors can, among other things, pack a kayak, test their balance and step into a sound environment from tent life.
It is a good combination. Paddling is both simple and difficult at the same time. The simple part is getting out on the water. The difficult part is understanding weather, margins, technique and responsibility well enough for the trip to be safe and enjoyable.
Small technical details make a big difference
The exhibition includes short films where Emil shows basic paddling technique and safety. These are things that may look small from shore, but make a real difference once you are sitting in the kayak.
How do you get in without stress? How do you use a sweep stroke to turn? How do you help a paddling partner after a capsize? How do you make your movements calm instead of jerky?
This is exactly the kind of knowledge we try to give our guests every day. Not because everyone needs to become an advanced paddler, but because a safer paddler has a better experience.
From the museum hall to the water
A good exhibition can make you want to try something yourself. After a while among stories, equipment and films, it is easy to feel like getting out on the water.
Our advice is simple: start at a level that fits the weather, your experience and how you feel that day. Choose calm water the first time. Listen to the staff’s advice. Take a course or a guided tour if you are unsure. And if the wind is too strong, it is better to rebook than to force a trip that will not be good.
Paddling should feel alive, but not like a gamble.
Want to paddle after your visit?
If PADDLA! makes you curious to get out on the water yourself, we are happy to help. With us you can rent a kayak in Stockholm from Eden by Smedsudden or from Pampas, or choose a kayak course or guided tour if you want more support along the way.
The most important thing is not to start big. The most important thing is to start safely.
Visit PADDLA! at the Maritime Museum first if you can. Then we will see you on the water when the weather and conditions are right.
May 20, 2026
Rent a kayak or take a course – what is best if you are a beginner?
Many people who want to start kayaking in Stockholm get stuck on the same question:
Should I just book a kayak and go out – or should I take a course first?
The short answer is: it depends on what you want from the paddling, how comfortable you feel on the water, and whether you “just” want a simple experience now or want to build a good foundation for many more trips in the future.
At LEK MER Kajak & SUP, we help everyone from people who rent a kayak for a calm trip in the city to those who want to learn kayaking from the ground up, or take the next step and become more competent paddlers. Which path you choose is up to you. The important thing is to choose the path that fits you, the weather, and what you are actually looking for.
When kayak rental is the right choice
Renting a kayak is best when you want to get out on the water in a simple and flexible way.
It is often the right choice if you:
- can swim and feel comfortable on the water
- want to paddle in calm conditions
- want to do a shorter (or longer) trip without focusing on technique training
- are paddling with someone who also feels comfortable
- mainly want a nice experience in Stockholm, not a lesson or guided tour
For many people, a 2-hour kayak rental is a perfect start. You get time to get out, find the rhythm, and experience the city from the water without blocking a whole day.
But there is an important difference between “I am a beginner, but comfortable and curious” and “I am not sure I can manage this”. If you belong to the second group, a course or introduction is often a better first step.
Book your kayaking now!
When a course is a better first step
A kayak course is the right choice when you want to feel safer, understand the basics, and avoid guessing your way forward.
It is especially useful if you:
- have never paddled before
- feel unsure about balance, steering, or what happens if you capsize
- want to learn correctly from the beginning
- want to paddle more efficiently and get less tired
- want to keep paddling more times, not just try it once
A good beginner course is not about making paddling complicated. Quite the opposite. It makes paddling easier, safer, and more enjoyable.
You get help with basics such as how to sit, how to hold the paddle, how to get a good catch in the water, and how to use your body instead of only pulling with your arms.
A simple way to think about the technique is:
– catch: the paddle enters the water far forward with control
– drive: the power comes from legs, hips, and torso – not only the arms
– glide: you relax, find the rhythm, and prepare for the next stroke
When these basics start to work, the kayak often feels both more stable and easier to handle.
Book your course today!
Introduction to kayaking or basic course – what is the difference?
If you are completely new, there are mainly two good ways to start with us.
Introduction to Kayaking: Stockholm City
Introduction to kayaking suits you if you want to test paddling in a safe setting without immediately booking a longer course.
It is right if you are thinking:
“I am curious, but I do not know yet if kayaking is for me.”
It is a low threshold into paddling and a good way to get your first feeling for the kayak, the paddle, and the water. At the same time, you are taken on a nice tour through Stockholm.
Kayak course – Basics
The basic kayak course suits you if you want to learn properly from the beginning.
It is right if you are thinking:
“I want to paddle more safely and feel that I know what I am doing.”
The basic course gives you a clearer foundation in technique, safety, and control. If you think you will want to paddle more than once, it is often the best investment.
When you should not start with normal kayak rental
Sometimes it is wiser not to start with independent rental.
We often recommend a course, introduction, or guided setup if you:
- are very nervous or afraid of water
- cannot swim
- are unsure whether you can get back by yourself
- want to paddle when the water is cold and you lack experience
- are planning a longer trip despite limited experience
- feel unsure about wind, weather, or route
This is about getting a good first experience. The best paddling is the kind where you feel suitably challenged, safe, and eager to do it again.
A simple rule of thumb
Choose kayak rental if:
- you feel comfortable on water
- you want a shorter, independent experience
- the weather is calm
- you are not mainly looking for instruction
Choose Introduction to kayaking if:
- you are curious but unsure
- you want to test kayaking with support
- you want a gentle first contact with paddling
Choose the basic kayak course if:
- you want to learn properly
- you want to feel safer before future trips
- you want to understand technique, safety, and control from the beginning
How to make your first paddle better
Whether you rent a kayak or take a course, a few things will make the experience better:
- choose a calmer weather day if you are new
- dress for the water and the weather, not only the air temperature
- paddle shorter than you think the first time
- stay close to the starting point until you feel comfortable
- ask the staff about the day’s conditions before you go out
- choose a course or guided option if you feel unsure
It is easy to think that paddling is mostly about strength. In practice, it is more about calm, balance, timing, and choosing the right level for the day.
Conclusion: start where you get the best experience
There is no prestige in renting a kayak directly if what you actually want is support. And there is no reason to book a course if you do not want to learn, want a short paddle, and the conditions are simple.
The right choice is the one that makes your first or next paddle safe, fun, and suitably challenging.
Want to get out easily? Then a 2-hour kayak rental can be perfect.
Curious but unsure? Start with Introduction to kayaking
Want to learn properly and build a stable foundation? Choose the basic kayak course.
Whichever path you take, the goal is the same: that you feel safer on the water and get more out of paddling in Stockholm.
April 30, 2026
Find Peace on the Water: Micro-Expeditions in Stockholm & Paddling Day 2026
Nature has become our most important place for recovery. More and more people are stepping away from screens and stress to find an uncomplicated break in their everyday lives – a genuine outdoor life for recovery. Gliding across the water is a smart choice to lower your heart rate, a fact supported by the well-known Blue Mind research, which shows how being near water demonstrably calms our brains.
Here in Stockholm, we have the luxury of going on small, urban “micro-expeditions”. We always say that the best adventures are often the ones that start just around the corner.
Here in Stockholm, we have the luxury of going on small, urban “micro-expeditions”. We always say that the best adventures are often the ones that start just around the corner.
City pulse and nature: Around kungsholmen
If you are looking for fun things to do in Stockholm, the classic tour around Kungsholmen by kayak is a brilliant idea. You can start your journey at Pampas Marina, glide through the leafy Karlbergskanalen, and then pass the majestic City Hall. Finish your tour by paddling past Långholmen, Lilla Essingen, and Fredhäll. It is a route that offers both beautiful architecture and green shorelines.
The Urban Oasis: Lillsjön
For a different kind of experience, a tour of Lillsjön is an excellent tip. Although the city hum from nearby roads reminds us we’re still in the heart of Stockholm, the lake is a fantastic, mirror-like oasis. Because it’s so well-sheltered from wind and waves, it’s the perfect spot to practice your paddling technique or simply enjoy gliding through lush surroundings. Remember, we share the water with nature—please keep a respectful distance from nesting birds and pick up any trash you might spot in the water.
Paddling Day 2026 and Tips from the Dock
On May 30, 2026, we are celebrating Paddling Day! It is a great opportunity to try out a SUP in Stockholm or rent a kayak for the day.
Here are two new tips from our instructors to enhance your experience:
1. The Power of Posture: For a more stable and powerful stroke, focus on a forward-rotated pelvis. By sitting upright and engaging your core, you gain better control of the kayak and reduce the strain on your lower back.
2. Mindful Paddling: Try “Mindful Paddling.” Sync your breathing with your strokes—inhale as you lift the paddle and exhale as it meets the water. This helps you find a meditative flow even while the city’s tempo continues around you.
Safety First
Safety and the environment are at the core of everything we do. Always dress for the water temperature, not the air. This is especially vital during spring when the air feels warm, but the water is still dangerously cold. Please read our previous post on cold water risks and hypothermia to learn how to stay safe.
Always do a quick risk analysis before getting in – “what happens if?” – and never paddle alone. Always wear a comfortable life jacket.
Are you ready to give it a try? A great idea for beginners is to book our Introduction to kayaking tour, or why not make it easy on yourself and choose our All-Inclusive Package.
See you on the water!
April 10, 2026
First time kayaking in Stockholm? 5 expert tips for a safe and memorable tour
There is a very special feeling when you step into a kayak right in the middle of the city, take your first paddle stroke, and instantly feel your pulse drop. Whether you are looking to rent a kayak at Pampas Marina for a calm evening tour or start from our base at Kungsholmen, the water is absolutely the best way to experience the city. If you are looking for fun things to do in Stockholm and want to try a genuine micro-expedition, you have found the right place.
Being a beginner is exciting, but it’s natural to feel a bit unsure the first time. To ensure your tour is as relaxing as you hope, we spoke with Emil, one of our experienced instructors. Here, he shares five practical tips from the dock that will instantly make you a smarter paddler.
1. Relax your grip on the paddle
A classic beginner mistake is gripping the paddle shaft too tightly, which quickly leads to cramped forearms and unnecessary fatigue. Try to maintain a relaxed grip – you should almost be able to wiggle your fingers while paddling. This saves a lot of energy and makes the ride much more comfortable.
2. Dress smart (wool is gold!)
Dressing in layers is a great rule of thumb on the water. One of our best tips is to always wear wool closest to your body. Unlike cotton, wool actually keeps you warm even if it gets wet, which is very reassuring since the water in Stockholm can remain chilly well into the summer. Want to dive deeper into this topic? Check out our YouTube video on cold water paddling (in Swedish) for more concrete advice.
3. Let the wind decide your route
Kayaking in Stockholm as a beginner is largely about reading the wind. A really nice tour from our dock at Eden is paddling around the island of Långholmen. But here is a smart tip: which direction you choose to circle the island matters a lot! By checking the wind direction beforehand, you can plan your route to get a tailwind on the most open, choppy section, and then glide back comfortably in the shelter of the wind.
4. Beware of the high stone quays
A common piece of advice is to “stay close to the shore,” but in central Stockholm, the shores often consist of high, vertical stone quays. When the wake from passing boats hits these hard stone walls, the waves bounce straight back, creating a choppy and chaotic sea (reflection waves) right near the edge. Sometimes it is actually safer and calmer to keep a bit of distance from the quay edge to avoid the worst of the “washing machine.”
5. Lift your gaze from the paddle
A common instinct for beginners is staring straight down at the front of the kayak or at the paddle to make sure you are doing it “right”. But your body follows your eyes! By lifting your gaze and looking towards the horizon or where you want to go, you automatically get better posture, a straighter course, and – most importantly – much better balance. Plus, you’ll miss Stockholm’s beautiful views if you only look down!
At LEK MER, we care deeply about our waters. If you spot a piece of plastic or trash floating by on your tour, please fish it up and place it in your kayak. It’s a simple way to give back to nature.
Do you want a safe and educational start to your kayaking journey together with Emil or one of our other guides?
👉 Book “Introduction to Kayaking Stockholm” and start your adventure here!
(Tags: Things to do in stockholm, kayak kungsholmen, rent kayak pampas, paddle kayak stockholm beginner, introduction to kayaking stockholm)
April 1, 2026
The Sun is Warm, but the Water is Lying: My Guide to a Safer Spring Kayaking Adventure
When spring knocks on the door, I, for one, find it hard not to feel a strong pull towards the water. You know that first day when the sun feels genuinely warm and the ice has finally given way. The urge to paddle is often overwhelming. It’s a fantastic time, but it’s also a time that demands reflection and respect.
Personally, my favorite time to paddle is often in October. The air is crisp, the leaves are a fiery mix of yellow and red, and you often have the water all to yourself. A big advantage then is that the water has stored the summer’s heat and is often significantly warmer than the air. In spring, the situation is the complete opposite, and it’s this imbalance that this article is about.
This is not a text meant to scare you. It’s a text to share the knowledge and experiences I’ve gathered as a paddler and instructor. My philosophy has always been that with increased knowledge come better decisions, and with better decisions comes more safety. And it’s that safety that allows us to relax and experience true paddling joy.
The Deceptive Disparity Between Air and Water
A sunny April day in Stockholm can feel warm enough for a t-shirt. It’s easy to get a false sense of security. But beneath your kayak, a completely different reality awaits. The ice may have just melted, and the enormous body of water hasn’t had a chance to absorb any real heat. It takes time to warm up our Swedish waters, and it’s often not until sometime in May that the water starts to feel reasonably okay.
Why is this so important to understand? Because water conducts heat away from your body about 25 times faster than air. If you end up in the water, it doesn’t matter how warm it is in the air. Your body will react to the water’s temperature, and only that.
More Than Just Hypothermia: The Four Phases of Cold Water Immersion
When we talk about the risks of cold water, most people think of hypothermia. It’s a real risk, but paradoxically, it’s rarely the most immediate danger. Most accidents happen long before hypothermia even becomes a factor. Research divides the process into four physiological phases.
Phase 1: Cold Shock Response (The first 0-3 minutes)
This is the body’s immediate, reflexive reaction to the sudden cold. It’s powerful and almost impossible to control with sheer willpower.
- The “Gasp Reflex”: When your skin hits the icy water, a deep, involuntary gasp can be triggered. If your head is underwater at that moment, water can be drawn into your lungs, creating an imminent risk of drowning.
- Uncontrolled Breathing: This is often followed by a period of intense hyperventilation. It can feel like you’re not getting enough air, even though you’re breathing extremely fast. This makes it very difficult to hold your breath or synchronize it with swimming strokes, which can easily lead to panic.
- Cardiovascular Stress: Simultaneously, your cardiovascular system reacts. Your blood pressure and heart rate can skyrocket. For individuals with underlying heart conditions, this shock can be life-threatening.
Phase 2: Cold Incapacitation & Swim Failure (3-30 minutes)
If you survive the initial shock (a reliable life vest is absolutely crucial here), the next challenge begins. Your body desperately tries to protect your vital organs by restricting blood flow to your arms and legs.
- Loss of Muscle and Nerve Function: Without a supply of warm blood, your muscles and peripheral nerves cool down incredibly fast. The result is a rapid loss of fine motor skills. Fastening a buckle, holding a rescue line, or even gripping your paddle can become nearly impossible.
- Swim Failure: Next, the larger muscle groups are affected. The ability to swim or even tread water can quickly deteriorate and eventually disappear. Without a life vest keeping you afloat, the situation becomes extremely critical.
Phase 3: Clinical Hypothermia (After 30+ minutes)
Only if you’ve managed to stay afloat for an extended period, usually more than 30 minutes, does clinical hypothermia become the primary danger. The body’s core temperature drops below 35°C (95°F), and the process most people associate with freezing begins.
Phase 4: Circum-Rescue Collapse (During and after rescue)
This is a treacherous and lesser-known risk that anyone helping someone out of cold water should be aware of. When a person is lifted from the water, especially vertically, it can cause a sudden, dramatic drop in blood pressure. A hypothermic person must be handled very gently, preferably lifted horizontally, and should avoid unnecessary movement.
Tips from the Dock: My Checklist for a Safe Trip
Okay, this is complex stuff. But the goal is for you to be able to make wise decisions. Here are my concrete tips for a safer paddle in cold water, many of which I also demonstrate in our video on the subject.
1. Dress for the water, not the air. This is the single most important rule.
  - A drysuit is your life insurance. When the water temperature is below 10-12°C (50-54°F), I consider it a mandatory part of the safety system. It keeps you dry, which is critical.
  - Layer smartly underneath. Use wool or good synthetic materials. Avoid cotton at all costs! Cotton absorbs moisture (sweat) and actively cools you from the inside, even under a drysuit. Remember, the drysuit itself doesn’t provide warmth; the insulation comes from the layers you wear under it!
  - Head, hands, and feet. A warm hat or a neoprene hood is essential. Warm gloves and sturdy neoprene shoes or socks make a huge difference.
2. Your life vest (PFD) is your best friend. Always.
  I never paddle without one. It’s your guarantee to keep your head above water if the initial cold shock hits or if you lose muscle control.
3. Use the 1-10-1 Rule as a guide, not a law.
  The mnemonic (1 minute to get your breathing under control, 10 minutes of meaningful movement, 1 hour until unconsciousness) is good for preventing panic. But remember, in icy water, you might have significantly less than ten minutes before your hands stop working. Have a plan, but don’t assume you have plenty of time.
4. Paddle with company and have a plan.
  Having a friend who knows the basics of peer rescue is invaluable. Talk through your plan before you set off. Who does what if something happens? Practice together in calm conditions so the rescue becomes second nature.
5. Invest in your own knowledge.
  The best gear in the world can’t replace knowledge. Taking a course is the fastest way to build a solid foundation. It gives you a chance to practice rescues in a safe environment and learn how to avoid getting into dangerous situations in the first place. If you’re curious, we at Lekmer offer both Introduction to Kayaking courses and more advanced safety and technique courses.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Paddling with Respect and Reason
Spring paddling is and always will be magical. The light, the quiet, and the feeling of nature coming back to life are hard to beat. By building your knowledge and having a humble respect for the power of the water, you can paddle safely and enjoy all the wonderful things this season has to offer.
Hope to see you on the water – in a safe and fun way!
/Emil
For the Curious: Links for Further Reading
For those who want to dive even deeper into the physiology and safety mindset around cold water, I highly recommend these resources.
- National Center for Cold Water Safety: A leading authority in the field.
- Swedish Canoe Federation’s Safety Page: Good, summarized information for Swedish conditions (in Swedish).
- Praktisk Medicin om Hypotermi: En mer klinisk och medicinsk genomgång av hypotermi, dess stadier och behandling.
- The 1-10-1 Rule Explained (Cold Water Boot Camp): A page by Dr. Gordon Giesbrecht, who coined the term.
March 23, 2026
From Tourist to Paddler: Why a Kayak Tour in Stockholm is Your Best Summer Souvenir
Seeing Stockholm from the water is a special experience. Gliding under bridges, watching the City Hall’s golden spire reflect on the water, and discovering the lush shores of islands like Långholmen is a unique way to experience the Swedish capital. But for many visitors, it remains just a thought: “Maybe next time.” Often, it’s a small feeling of uncertainty that holds them back: Can I really handle a kayak? What happens if it tips over?
This is where a guided kayak tour comes in. It’s not just a rental – it’s a key that unlocks a world of urban micro-adventures and nature experiences, right in the heart of the city. Investing a couple of hours to learn the basics is a smart choice that pays off in safety, skill, and pure paddling joy.
Paddle Smarter, Not Harder
A common misconception is that paddling is all about arm strength. But as our founder, Emil Gyllenberg, often shows on our YouTube channel, the real power comes from your core. By learning to rotate your torso, you can paddle longer, faster, and with significantly less effort. It’s a technique that not only makes paddling more fun but also prevents strain. On our guided tours, you get personal tips from experienced instructors who help you find the right technique for your body.
Knowledge is Confidence on the Water
The weather can change quickly, and feeling safe in the kayak is everything. An introductory tour gives you the tools you need to handle the basics with confidence. You’ll learn fundamental safety techniques and how to dress appropriately for the water temperature – vital knowledge, especially in the spring. With this guidance, you can relax and enjoy the moment.
An Invitation to Play More
For tourists and first-time paddlers, our Introduction to Kayaking is the perfect choice. This guided tour combines learning with sightseeing, giving you the skills and confidence to enjoy the water safely. It’s the perfect start for anyone who wants a genuine Stockholm nature experience. Whether you dream of paddling around the classic city island of Kungsholmen or simply enjoying a calm evening from our dock at Pampas Marina, a guided tour gives you the freedom to do it with confidence. And when you paddle with us, you do it in premium-class kayaks that are both stable and comfortable.
Ready to invest in yourself and discover Stockholm from its very best perspective?
Our best tip: Book your Introduction to Kayaking today and make summer 2026 your summer of paddling!
(Tags: introduction to kayaking, kayak stockholm, what to do in stockholm, stockholm city tour, learn to kayak, kayak rental stockholm, pampas marina, kungsholmen, outdoor activities stockholm)
March 16, 2026
Find Your Very Own Swedish Island – Discover Lake Mälaren with Our All-Inclusive Package!
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!
👉 Book Lek Mer’s All-Inclusive package here and find your own island!
(Taggar: Rent kayak, Things to do in stockholm, Rent kayak stockholm, all inclusive kayak, stockholms archipelago islands, urban outdoor, lovöns naturreservat)
March 9, 2026
Discover the “Blue Mind”: The Ultimate Corporate Wellness & Kayaking Experience in Stockholm
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.
Whether you just want to rent a kayak or book a comprehensive teambuilding stockholm experience, we are here to guide you.
Ready to treat your team to the ultimate wellness retreat?

We have just launched our new corporate packages!
👉 Download our brand-new corporate presentation by filling out the form here!
Welcome to the Swedish outdoors!
March 3, 2026
News: Course Dates Released – Join Our New Full-Day Kayaking CoursesNyhet: Nu släpper vi årets kursdatum – gå vår nya heldagskurs
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:
1. 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.
2. 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.
Are you ready to dream of spring? Get prepared today!
👉 Read more and book your Basic or Intermediate course here
👉 Curious about multi-day trips? Read more about our All-Inclusive packages
February 25, 2026