Distance: approx. 7 km, 1.5–2 hours
Difficulty: 3/5 – for those who have paddled before
Start and finish: our jetty on Långholmen, central Stockholm

The route around Lilla and Stora Essingen gives you a front-row view of the exclusive villas along the islands’ shores. It includes several shipping-lane crossings and can be a little choppy at times, but if you stay close to the shore it is a pleasant trip that you can do in two hours.

The route step by step

Start from our jetty, paddle under Långholmsbron and turn left under Reimersholmsbron. Cross the shipping lane after the bridge, pass Gröndal on your left and paddle under Essingebron.

When it is safe, cross the shipping lane on your right, paddle over to Stora Essingen and follow the shore all the way around the island. After rounding Stora Essingen, either paddle straight back to Långholmen or add a loop around Lilla Essingen (recommended).

Tips for the trip

• Cross shipping lanes together, straight and where they are narrowest – only when no boats are coming.
• Stay close to the shore where possible to avoid most of the boat wash.
• Kayak, life jacket, paddle, spray deck and map are always included when you rent from us.

Rent a kayak on Långholmen

Rent a kayak on Långholmen, a short walk from Hornstull metro station, and see our rental prices. New to kayaking? Start with the Figure Eight or join a guided kayak tour in English.