Duration:
2-3 hours
Tour Type:
Historical / Experience
Stockholm is not only Sweden’s capital; it is a city of islands, history, and countless adventures. One of the most popular sea kayaking tours is “Around Kungsholmen”, an experience that combines the city’s beauty with its rich history. This tour, spanning approximately 10 km, gives paddlers a unique opportunity to experience Stockholm from the water. Here is everything you need to know to join us on this adventure.
Preparation and
Practical Information
Before you head out to paddle around Kungsholmen, proper preparation is essential. The tour usually takes about two hours in a sea kayak, but this may vary based on weather conditions, wind speed, and how many breaks you choose to take. For extra safety and to get a closer look at the sights along the shoreline, I recommend staying close to land. By paddling around Kungsholmen, you get the chance to see the city from a whole new perspective, where the impressive buildings and surrounding nature truly come to life.
Essential Tips:
- Direction: In easterly or southeasterly winds, paddle clockwise around the island. In westerly or southwesterly winds, paddle counter-clockwise for the most pleasant journey. Feel free to talk to our staff about the best paddling direction for today.
- Rest Areas: There are several recommended spots for a break. Ensure you bring water and snacks! Some of the best places for a rest are the north side of Långholmen, Rålambshovsparken, and Karlberg Palace.
Historical Highlights around Kungsholmen
Around Kungsholmen is not just a physical challenge; it is a journey through history. Here are some of the most interesting sights we encounter.
The History of Lake Mälaren
Lake Mälaren, Sweden’s third-largest lake, stretches 120 km inland from the Old Town (Gamla Stan) and is home to about 7,500 islands. The lake is a vital source of drinking water for 2.5 million people in the region. The name comes from the Old Swedish word “mal,” meaning coarse gravel, reflecting the lake’s geological history.
After the ice sheet melted 10,000 years ago, the land began to rise, and Lake Mälaren—which was previously part of the Baltic Sea—became a lake. Archaeological finds show that people have lived here for over 8,000 years, sustained by hunting and fishing. Despite the city’s expansion, traces of ancient settlements remain in the area. Lake Mälaren offers a beautiful environment to explore from your sea kayak.
Karlberg Palace
The beautiful Karlberg Palace, built in the 1630s, is now a military academy. It is the world’s oldest military academy still in use at its original location. The palace has a rich history and has housed many royal families over the years. You can feel the wings of history as you paddle past.
Sankt Eriksbron Bridge
When you paddle under Sankt Eriksbron, you are at a fascinating example of 20th-century industrial development. The original bridge was built in 1909, but the current steel beam bridge was installed in 1937 to handle increasing car traffic. The bridge is unique in Stockholm as the only double-deck bridge, accommodating both cars and the subway.
During the bridge’s planning, preparations were already made for the subway, which began operating here in the 1950s. On the eastern side of the bridge sits a green building known as the Sport Palace (Sportpalatset), which once contained a 50-meter pool and other sports facilities. In the 1970s, the building became a recording studio for Polar Music, where ABBA and other international artists recorded their songs. The Sport Palace is part of Stockholm’s musical heritage and contributes to the area’s rich history.
The City Hall
City Hall, one of Stockholm’s most iconic buildings, is renowned for its unique architecture and historical significance. Designed by Ragnar Östberg and completed in 1923, the building harmoniously blends influences from Italian, Nordic, Gothic, and Islamic architecture. It is the heart of the city’s political life and every year hosts the Nobel Banquet in its magnificent halls.
City Hall is a masterpiece of the National Romantic style, constructed with 8 million specially made dark red bricks. The tower, rising 106 meters, offers a breathtaking view over the city. The building’s ornamentation is rich with references to Stockholm’s history, securing its place as a vital part of the city’s cultural heritage.
Västerbron
Västerbron, which opened for traffic in 1936, is an impressive steel arch bridge stretching across Riddarfjärden, connecting the districts of Södermalm and Kungsholmen. With a vertical clearance of 26 meters and a total length of over 600 meters including viaducts, it remains the largest steel bridge ever built in Sweden.
Before Västerbron was built, the only way to travel from north to south through the city was via Gamla Stan. The bridge significantly improved traffic flow and became a cornerstone of Stockholm’s infrastructure. Its architectural design and functionality make it one of the city’s most significant bridges, both historically and in today’s modern urban landscape.
Stora and Lilla Essingen
The Essinge Islands, consisting of Lilla and Stora Essingen, offer a fascinating look at Stockholm’s evolution from industrial hubs to attractive residential areas.
Lilla Essingen has undergone a significant transformation from an industrial island to a modern residential oasis. During the first half of the 20th century, the island was home to major industries like Primus and AB Lux, famous for their kerosene stoves and vacuum cleaners. Today, these factories have been replaced by modern homes, while some of the old brick buildings have been preserved and given new life as restaurants and residences. Lilla Essingen is now a peaceful spot with beautiful parks and promenades, perfect for a safe sea kayak break.
Stora Essingen, on the other hand, is known as Stockholm’s villa island. Development began with worker housing and summer cottages in the 1870s, and the island has since become an exclusive area with villas and apartment buildings. Situated near the busy Essingeleden, Stora Essingen offers a charming combination of city life and scenic nature, making it a popular choice for those seeking a calm environment near the city’s pulse.
Together, the Essinge Islands represent a dynamic part of Stockholm where history meets modernity in a harmonious environment.
The Hidden Gems of Kungsholmen
In addition to the historical sites, the tour offers beautiful views and modern features. Kungsholmen is a place where old meets new, which is clearly noticeable throughout your paddling trip.
- Rålambshovsparken: A perfect spot for a break with a view over the water. Here you can stretch your legs and enjoy a picnic in the greenery.
- Hornsbergs Strand: A newly developed area with swimming opportunities and restaurants, perfect for a concluding coffee. The excellent sunny location has made it a popular place to hang out, especially during the warm days of summer.
Sea kayak rental around Kungsholmen
For those looking to rent a sea kayak or SUP and paddle around Kungsholmen, there are several rental centers located on or near the island. Each offers unique services for your safety and enjoyment.
- Eden Kayak & SUP – A certified canoe center located at Rålis (Rålambshovsparken). They focus on high-quality equipment and excellent service.
- Pampas Kayak & SUP – Located in Pampas Marina, opposite Hornsbergs Strand; like Eden, they prioritize high-quality equipment to ensure a more joyful experience on the water.
- Kajakkompaniet – Located under Tranebergsbron, offering quality sea kayaks.
- Långholmen Kayak – Located on Långholmen and focuses on stable plastic kayaks.
Final Thoughts
Paddling around Kungsholmen is more than just a physical activity; it’s a chance to see Stockholm from a fresh perspective, a highlight of sea kayaking Sweden. Whether you are an experienced paddler or a beginner, this tour offers something for everyone. So rent a sea kayak, follow our guide, and experience one of Stockholm’s most beloved paddling routes.
We hope you have a fantastic tour and discover new sides of Stockholm from your sea kayak!
