A Paddlers Guide to Saint Anna & Gryt
Saint Anna & Gryt are unique among the archipelagos of Sweden. A vast number of islands are situated very closely together, and the communities that inhabit some of them are also notably close-knit and reach far back in history. You’ll get plenty of solitude and wilderness on your adventure. But if you like, you also have the opportunity to delve into the rich culture of these islands, both past and present.
A maze of secluded islands
The Swedish archipelagos are a fascinating glacial landscape carved out during the last ice age. To experience the powerful processes that took place 10,000 years ago, all you gotta do is to look around. They're visible everywhere!
Saint Anna & Gryt consist of six thousand islands and islets along a 70 kilometer coastline. Almost all of them are wild and uninhabited, and chance is you won’t see another soul for days. Maybe a sailing boat or some kayakers in the distance. But other than that, it’s when you visit some of the points of interest you may see the locals or visitors.
Wild camping permitted everywhere
It's a rare privilege in the world and oh so wonderful. You are completely free to set up camp on any island and make it your own for the night. It goes hand in hand with responsibility, of course. We don't litter or harm the precious ecosystem in any way.
Learn more: How Ice Sculpted These Lands, A Mosaic of Island Habitats,
Birds Grey Seals & Marine Life and Interactive Map
That lovely genuine archipelago culture
While something as mundane as strict building regulations may sound boring, they have given rise to something truly special in this specific region – a beautifully preserved archipelago culture in harmonious blend with nature.
Homes here are quaint, traditional, and steeped in history. Lands tend to stay in the same family for generations, and the island dwellers are a tight-knit community. The whole area exudes a feeling of a time long gone. This is quite a contrast to for example the Stockholm Archipelago, where property turnover is frequent and contemporary, larger constructions are common.
Local legends
It’s great fun to meet some of the locals who live on the islands year-round. They’re often resourceful jacks of many trades, wonderfully eccentric, and incredibly genuine, friendly and helpful. The easiest way to do this, and to also support local ventures, is to visit some of the small establishments nestled among the islands.
We love Mats’ rustic pub on Missjö, always such a fantastic time! Visiting Håskö for a wood-fired sauna and Göran's smoked fish is another one. Dropping into Gunvor’s little café at Tyrislöt and chatting up a storm is a perfect way to either end your trip, or take a break if you’re filling up your water.
Learn more: History & Culture of Saint Anna, Interactive Map
