Hosted Field Journeys

A Day Inside the Archipelago

This is not a traditional guided tour.

It is a personal journey through one of Scandinavia’s least known archipelagos, hosted by someone who lives and works in the landscape year-round.

As the conservation manager responsible for ongoing restoration and stewardship in the archipelago, I share the places, stories, wildlife and everyday realities that have shaped these islands for generations.

Travelling in a small group, we move between remote islands, historic settlements, bird colonies, narrow passages and open water. Some days we follow sea eagles. Other days we stop among flowering meadows, old crofts or forgotten traces of the people who once called these islands home.

No two journeys are exactly alike. The route is shaped by weather, season, wildlife and the interests of the group.

Along the way, I share not only what can be seen, but also what lies beneath the surface — the history, restoration work and ecological processes that continue to shape the archipelago today.

This is a journey for curious travellers who want more than sightseeing.

It is an opportunity to experience Lake Vänern from the inside.

What You Will Experience

• Remote islands and hidden corners of the archipelago

• Wildlife, birdlife and seasonal changes

• Stories from island communities and maritime history

• Active conservation and restoration work

• Historic landscapes shaped by centuries of human presence

• Time to observe, photograph and simply be present in the landscape

Included

• Hosted personally by Martin Sandmark

• Modern, safe boat with all required safety equipment

• Small groups for a personal experience

• Flexible itinerary adapted to conditions and interests

• Departure from Ekenäs or agreed location

• Duration approximately 3 hours

Optional: Dinner at Lurö Krog

Many guests choose to end the day with a seasonal three-course dinner at Lurö Krog, located in the heart of the archipelago.

I will gladly arrange the reservation when you book.

Payment is made directly to the restaurant.

Practical Information

Season: May–September

Minimum: 4 paying guests

Maximum: 7 guests

The Experience

Djurö National Park offers a rare opportunity to explore a remote island landscape at your own pace.

After a scenic boat journey across Lake Vänern, you are free to spend the day discovering the island’s hiking trails, rocky shores, old forests and open meadows. There are no roads, no shops and few visitors — only nature, silence and the rhythm of the lake.

Unlike a traditional guided tour, this experience gives you time and freedom to explore independently. Walk the trails, enjoy a picnic by the shore, photograph the landscape or simply find a quiet place to sit and take in the surroundings.

Before departure, I provide practical information about the island, current conditions and suggested routes. When you are ready to return, I will collect you and bring you safely back to the mainland.

This experience is ideal for hikers, photographers, birdwatchers and anyone seeking a day in one of Sweden’s most untouched natural environments.

What You Will Experience

• A boat journey across Sweden’s largest lake

• The remote islands of Djurö National Park

• Hiking trails through old forest and open landscapes

• Quiet beaches, rocky shores and viewpoints

• Opportunities for birdwatching and photography

• Time to explore at your own pace

Included

• Return boat transport to and from Djurö National Park

• Scenic crossing of Lake Vänern

• Safety equipment

• Practical introduction and route suggestions

• Flexible return schedule agreed before departure

• Departure from Ekenäs or agreed location

Practical Information

Duration: Approximately 6 hours

Season: May–September

Minimum: 4 paying guests

Maximum: 7 guests

The Experience

Spend a day exploring one of Europe’s largest freshwater archipelagos.

After a scenic boat journey from Ekenäs, you are free to discover Lurö in your own way. Follow the island trails, visit the historic chapel, enjoy the views across Lake Vänern, swim in the sheltered waters of Bosshamn or simply relax and take in the atmosphere of island life.

Lurö has been inhabited for centuries and remains one of the most unique destinations on Lake Vänern. Today, visitors come here for the peaceful landscapes, rich birdlife, cultural history and the feeling of being far from roads, crowds and everyday routines.

Before departure, I provide practical information, local recommendations and suggestions for what to see during your visit. When you are ready to return, I will collect you and bring you safely back to the mainland.

This experience is ideal for walkers, photographers, nature lovers and travellers seeking a slower pace for the day.

What You Will Experience

• Lurö – the largest inhabited island in the archipelago

• Historic landscapes shaped by generations of islanders

• Walking trails through open meadows and old woodland

• Scenic viewpoints overlooking Lake Vänern

• Birdlife, wildflowers and seasonal changes

• Quiet bays for swimming and relaxation

• Time to explore at your own pace

Included

• Return boat transport to Lurö

• Scenic crossing of Lake Vänern

• Safety equipment

• Practical introduction and local recommendations

• Flexible return schedule agreed before departure

• Departure from Ekenäs or agreed location

Practical Information

Duration: Approximately 6-7 hours

Season: May–September

Group size: 1–7 guests

Dogs welcome if all guests agree

Optional

Enjoy lunch, coffee or dinner at Lurö during your visit.

Reservations can be arranged upon request.