Distance: approx. 6 km, 1.5–2 hours
Difficulty: 2/5 – a great first paddle
Start and finish: our jetty on Långholmen, central Stockholm

Paddling into Årstaviken is a pleasant, shorter tour past boat clubs, swimming spots and the green Årsta islets (Årsta holmar). You can do it in about two hours, and it suits anyone who wants to paddle at an easy pace in fairly sheltered water – ideal if you are new to kayaking or SUP.

The route step by step

Start from our jetty and paddle out under Långholmsbron, then turn left through the leafy passage by Reimersholmsbron. You pass Hornstull Strand on your left and then Liljeholmsbron.

The tour continues past Tantolunden park with its beach. You pass boat clubs, bridges and the leafy Årsta islets. At Skanstullsbron and the Hammarby lock (Hammarbyslussen) it is time to turn back. Paddle home along the western side of Årstaviken to make the most of the trip. The best place for a coffee break – a Swedish fika – is on the Årsta islets.

Tips for the trip

• Årstaviken is fairly sheltered, but watch out for boats near the bridges and the lock.
• Bring a snack – the Årsta islets are a lovely place to go ashore.
• Kayak, life jacket, paddle, spray deck and map are always included when you rent from us.
• Experienced paddler? Continue through the lock on the longer route around Djurgården.

Rent a kayak or SUP on Långholmen

Our rental is on Långholmen by the Pålsund Canal – nearest address Alstaviksvägen 3, nearest metro station Hornstull. Rent a kayak or rent a SUP and see our rental prices. Prefer company? Join a guided kayak tour in English.

More routes: the Figure Eight around Reimersholme and Långholmen and around Kungsholmen.