Sweden Summer Family Adventure

On arrival in Stockholm, make your way to the joining hotel, with check in from 3.00pm. Often referred to as the ‘Venice of the North’, Stockholm is unquestionably a unique and beautiful city all year round, not only due to its location on 14 islands with its infinite presence of water, but also because of its combination of nature, colourful architecture and long history. You don't need to walk far to appreciate the impressive views stretching across the Baltic Sea as it winds past the city walls. Stroll through 13th century Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s charming old town, where you cannot help but feel its medieval atmosphere as you wander through the cobblestone streets past narrow, colourful houses of yesteryear. There is so much to see in Stockholm, appealing to so many different interests, that you are sure to find something special within walking distance of your hotel. We recommend visiting the Vasa and Abba Museums. There is a welcome briefing at 6.00pm at the hotel this evening.

Today starts with a trip on a steamboat (subject to month of travel) which takes you from Stockholm, over Lake Mälaren, to the quiet hamlet of Enhörna. After admiring Enhörna’s impressive viewpoint of Lake Mälaren you set off on your bikes and cycle to Taxinge manor. Taxinge manor is not only a beautiful manor house set in picturesque surroundings - it is also famous for its cakes. Plenty of time is allowed to marvel at the display. After your tea break, it’s time to cycle along the shores of Lake Mälaren on to Mariefred. Alternatively, you may choose to board the charming steam train from Taxinge, reminiscent of times gone by, and make your way to the village of Mariefred. The village with its lakeside location, many shops and cafes and historic buildings including the impressive Gripsholm Castle is well worth a wander. Option to take the steamboat all the way to Mariefeld to reduce cycling component - must be advised at the time of booking if you would like the shortened cycle option.

A short transfer takes you to the start of your canoeing trip where you are met and provided with your canoes. After your canoe introduction, the route takes you through remarkable scenery as you paddle gently down the chain of Marviken lakes to Laxne. The area has its own unique character because of its geological history - the mountain split in two and as a result Lake Marviken is today bordered by 50m high cliffs. Here you will have time to enjoy your picnic lunch with beautiful lake views. After lunch, you get back into your canoes and continue paddling as the lake widens into the beautiful Lake Klämmingen. Take advantage of the clean, fresh water as you stop at one of the small beaches lining the lakeshore. Enjoy the quiet and calm as you gently paddle down the middle of the lake, listening only to the birds and softly lapping waves. A short while after entering Lake Klämmingen you will find your camp set up for a peaceful night among the wildlife. Whilst the camp will be set up for you there are no showers or running water available. However you will be supplied with drinking water and there are drop toilets. The campsite is a favourite with our families.

This morning you start your hike directly from your camp site. This hike is a true wilderness stretch which takes you through a varied landscape, passing lakes, both large and small, forests and hills with delightful views across the Sörmland landscape. Experience the sense of wilderness as you climb the viewing tower at Fräkensjöberget and admire a landscape of trees stretching as far as the eye can see. Stop to enjoy your lunch and a refreshing swim in one of the many remote lakes en route. You continue your hike passing viewpoints, beaches and churches direct to your accommodation just outside of Gnesta, a beautifully located manor house with wonderful views across the lake. Walking 18km/11.2mi

This morning you can choose to take a short break at your Bed & Breakfast before continuing your journey onwards by bicycle to Trosa. The cycle route takes you through the Swedish countryside at its very best; pine forests, sparkling lakes and open meadows. You can take one of two routes today. The shorter route is specially suitable for families with younger children, you can cycle from Gnesta B&B straight to Trosa along predominantly country lanes and cycle paths. If you take this option, you can make a day trip tomorrow from Trosa to Tullgarn Palace and return by bicycle. The longer route that takes you to Tullgarn Palace and then on to Trosa. A substantial section of this route follows rougher tracks. The royal Tullgarn Palace is an 18th century royal palace located on the seashore with magnificent views of the Baltic waters. Relax and enjoy your lunch in the delightful palace gardens. After lunch you continue your journey by bicycle the short stretch to the seaside town Trosa, a charming 17th century town called 'the World's End' because it of its location on the banks of the Baltic Sea with endless views of the ocean all around. The little square, surrounded by old wooden houses, marks the centre of town and the walkway along the canal as it winds its way to the ocean is not to be missed. Option 1: Cycling 30km/18.6mi, approx 2hrs Option 2: Cycling 41.5km/25.8mi, approx 4hrs

Today you are free to either wander the streets of Trosa and enjoy the many shops, cafes and restaurants. You can also take a morning cycle to one of the nearby beaches to enjoy a swim before heading back to the city. If you are keen to explore the waters of Trosa’s archipelago you can rent a kayak or join a boat tour around the archipelago. If you chose the shorter route on Day 5, you can cycle to Tullgarn Palace and return to Trosa. Please note that you have your bikes until 12.00 noon today, when they will be transferred to Stockholm. Your tickets for the bus journey back to Stockholm are provided so you can make your way back at a time that suits you. Option 1: Cycling 25km/15.3mi approx. 2hrs Option 2: Cycling variable according to your preference

After breakfast, you can choose to take an optional self-guided bicycle tour through Stockholm’s unique Royal National City Park - the world’s first National Park to be located within a bustling city. It's a 27 sq km green oasis combining cultural heritage and natural features. Here you can cycle through ancient forests, visit palaces and bathe from waterside rocks. Animals such as foxes, badgers, marten, mink and deer roam freely and the greatest number of large oak trees in northern Europe are located right here, in the city centre! Your self guided tour takes you through this peaceful city hideaway and includes the Royal island of Djurgården where many of Stockholm’s best museums are located, the royal residence of Rosendal and its delightful gardens and café plus the picturesque canal running through the island. Not to be missed along the way is the Kaknäs Tower with its 30 floor high observation deck offering fantastic views across Stockholm city. Head north and you come to Haga Park and Palace - home to the Crown Princess family - which lies alongside the beautiful Brunnsviken inlet. Further north you can reach as far as Ulriksdal’s Palace with its well respected restaurant plus relaxing gardens and delightful views. Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast.