Craving adventure? Stretch your itchy feet in Stockholm
Stockholm may not seem the obvious place to get your adrenaline pumping – but its sleek glossy reputation and sophisticated Scandinavian class are only part of the capital’s appeal. In summer or winter, the city has plenty to offer for those craving adventure, outdoor activities and new unique ways to discover a city.
EXPLORING
Wild swimming is very popular with locals, with designated spots across the city – and thanks to environmental measures in place since the 70s, pretty much anywhere in the city is safe to swim. Some of the best spots include the south-western tip of Kungsholmen, one of Stockholm’s many islands, or the beaches along Långholmens bad. Do keep in mind that clothing is sometimes optional.
Kayaking the Stockholm archipelago is a gorgeously simple way to discover the city. Kayak hires are relatively cheap and easy to navigate yourself, and a great way to meet other travellers. Or indulge in a bit of nature watching! Keep your eyes peeled for white tailed eagles and greys seals.
Stockholm is also the best place to try your hand out at snow-kiting – which is the Swedes’ answer to kitesurfing in the winter. It’s easier if you have some experience skiing/snowboarding. Kiteboardcenter in Vasastan has the best beginner classes and promises a truly unique experience.
Visiting in the Winter? Strap on a pair of skates and go explore the frozen lakes of Stockholm – the best way to avoid the touristy crowds in the city centre’s ice-skating rinks.
CLUBBING
After a long day of kayaking/skating, why not finish off by dancing until the early hours of the morning at Slakhuset. It’s Stockholm’s answer to the rambling clubs of Berlin, combined with a certain New York grittiness. Located in an old slaughterhouse, with multiple different dance areas playing a combination of electro, house and hip hop, and a 600 square metre roof terrace open in summer, this is the place to work off some of that leftover energy. Nothing guarantees a good night’s sleep in a hostel room like exhausting yourself on the dance floor.
EATING
For some sustenance between activities, explore Stockholm’s burgeoning food truck culture. The market at Hornstull Marknad, held every Saturday and Sunday from April through to September, offers a wide selection of budget friendly Swedish food and global delicacies. Special mentions go to the Bun Bun Truck and its freshly made Vietnamese Bánh Mì, and the Kystekt Strömming serving up classic Swedish pan-seared herring.
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