Lost Among the Islets – A Wild Kayak Adventure in Stora Nassa

Kayak expedition to the exceptional island groups on the outer edge of the archipelago. A peculiar and unique world, a treasure well worth a visit by kayak.

Stora Nassa lies in Stockholm’s outer archipelago, about 55 km east of the city. This breathtaking area consists of roughly 400 islands, skerries, and open sea, with a mix of lush, forested islands and barren rocky islets.

A Remote and Rugged Beauty

We love Stora Nassa for its untamed wilderness and maze-like waterways, perfect for sea kayaking. The countless narrow channels and hidden passages create a true explorer’s paradise. Some islands offer high vantage points, providing sweeping views of this ever-changing seascape.

This landscape tells a story of ancient glaciation and rebirth, where the land, once pressed down by ice, is still rising from the sea. From above, the area appears as a scattered puzzle of gray rocks, shimmering waters, red cottages, and green meadows—a stark yet mesmerizing contrast.

Traces of the Past – A Land of Fishermen and Sailors

Though it may seem remote and untouched, Stora Nassa has a long history of human presence. For centuries, it was home to fishermen, hunters, smugglers, and sailors who learned to navigate its narrow waters. Seasonal fishing has taken place here since at least the 16th century, and from the 18th century until the 1940s, a small community lived on Stora Bonden, sustaining themselves through fishing, seal and seabird hunting, and eider down harvesting.

Even today, remnants of their presence remain—such as grazing pastures, ancient meadows, and traces of old settlements.

A Haven for Birdlife

Stora Nassa is an important nesting area for over 20 shorebird species, including eiders, wagtails, and great grebes. The islands also feature unique maritime deciduous forests, where low, multi-stemmed birches create a windswept yet lush landscape.

Paddling in the Outer Archipelago

Since the 1950s, Kallskär has been a well-known destination for kayakers. The island’s name originates from the old Swedish word for a male seal (“kall”), highlighting the area’s deep connection to wildlife and the sea.

This route is recommended for experienced sea kayakers, as it includes 5–8 km open water crossings. The outer islands are fully exposed to wind and sea conditions, requiring careful planning.