Stockholm Archipelago

Fortress in KodjupetVaxholm Fortress was built in the mid-16th century under Gustav Vasa to protect Stockholm from sea attacks. Under Johan III, a stone tower replaced the original wooden blockhouse; most of the current complex dates from 1833 to 1863. Attacks by the Danes in 1612 and the Russian fleet in 1719 were repelled. Since 1964, it has housed the Fortress Museum.Steamers and Summer RetreatsIn 1849, a steamboat company began operating between Stockholm and Vaxholm, eventually forming today's Waxholmsbolaget through later mergers. From the 1860s, Vaxholm became a popular seaside resort, and many Stockholmers built wooden summer houses here.Wooden TownOnly from 1912 onwards was it permitted to build with materials other than wood in Vaxholm. This explains the uniform appearance of wooden houses that still characterizes the town today.

Port, Customs, and InnSandhamns Värdshus has been part of island life since the 17th century. Next to the historic customs house, the Sandhamn Archipelago Museum tells the story of the place, open daily in summer.Sailing CultureSailing tradition still defines the island today. In summer, many regattas are held at the harbour, and sailors from all over the archipelago dock here.Sandhamn in LiteratureThe island became famous far beyond Sweden through Viveca Sten's crime novels, set on Sandhamn. Local baking traditions include Sandhamnslimpa bread and the island bakery's Seglarbullen buns.

Sweden's Oldest Iron MinesIron ore mining began on Utö around 1150, making these mines the oldest in Sweden. By 1624, nine mines were operational, but in 1719, Russian troops destroyed the mines, houses, and livestock. Mining ceased in 1879. Today, the former shafts are filled with groundwater and appear as elongated ponds in the landscape; there are no underground tours.Mining Museum and LithiumHoused in the old fire station next to Utö Värdshus, the Gruvmuseet showcases the history of mining, open daily in summer. The element Lithium was first detected in a rock sample from Utö in 1817.Sport and Summer RetreatNew summer houses were built in the 19th and 20th centuries, including for artists and writers. More recently, Utö gained renown as the birthplace of Swimrun, an event where running and swimming alternate through the archipelago.

The Legend of DrottninggrottanThe most famous place in the island's history is the cave Drottninggrottan. According to tradition, it served as a hiding place for Queen Maria Eleonora in the early 17th century when she fled from court and government after the death of her husband, King Gustav II Adolf.Protection of Nature and the SeaToday, Nåttarö is protected as a nature reserve and is one of the first marine nature reserves in the region. The many small skerries in Nåttaröfladen are an important breeding ground for seabirds, which is why a ban on entering several islands applies there between February 1 and August 15.Life in SummerIn summer, the holiday village, restaurant, and guest harbour shape island life. Boaters use the protected natural harbours, such as the popular Östermarsfladen in the north.

Rail, Port and Seaside ResortAlthough interest in a port here grew as early as the mid-19th century, Nynäshamn's development only began in 1901 with the opening of the railway line to Stockholm. In the early 20th century, the town became known as a seaside resort: in 1906, the spa hotel of Nynäs Havsbad opened, its buildings combining Art Nouveau with elements of National Romanticism. In 1912, Nynäshamn hosted the Olympic sailing competitions.Industry and Ferry ServicesIn 1916, the state Telegraph Administration's workshops established industry here, followed by the oil refinery, still operating today, in 1928 and 1929. In summer, ferries to Gotland—a popular destination for Swedes of all ages—shape the port's activity.Maritime FestivalsEvery summer, a port festival takes place, complemented by craft markets. On these occasions, a steam train often runs between Stockholm and Nynäshamn.