Guide to Arholma – Experience, Eat and Enjoy
Beautiful sea inlets, rugged cliffs, a magical cultural landscape, and rich history await you on one of the archipelago’s most iconic islands.
Guide to Arholma – Experience, Eat and Enjoy
Beautiful sea inlets, rugged cliffs, a magical cultural landscape, and rich history await you on one of the archipelago’s most iconic islands.
Arholma lies at the northernmost edge of the Stockholm archipelago. The island is completely car-free and features a historic village street dating back to the 1600s. Here you’ll also find a tavern, a general store, a guest harbor, and a museum.
Getting here:
Car + connecting boat
Drive to Simpnäs, where the boat Monsun operates year-round. The boat ride to Arholma takes about 15 minutes. Parking is available.
Driving from Stockholm takes just over 2 hours, and about 1 hour from Norrtälje.
Bus
SL buses run to Simpnäs with timetables coordinated with the connecting boat. Search for Arholma in the SL app.
Boat from Stockholm
In spring and summer, Sjögull and Sjöbris depart from Strömkajen (near the Grand Hôtel). The journey takes just over 4 hours through beautiful archipelago scenery.
Boat from Norrtälje and the North/South line
In summer, M/S Rex departs from Norrtälje. Waxholmsbolaget’s North/South line also connects to Arholma. See schedules on the Waxholmsbolaget website or Norrtälje municipality’s site.
Private boat
Guest harbours are available in Österhamn and Ahlmansviken.
Highlights at Arholma:
Apollonia
In the 1800s, nearly every farm on the island owned its own ship. You can still catch a glimpse of the schooner Apollonia’s skeletal frame rising from the water in Österhamn.
Arholma Båk
The beacon is an iconic part of Arholma’s silhouette, dating back to 1768. This fixed sea mark is visible from as far as 15 nautical miles. Today, it houses art exhibitions and a local craft shop.
Battery Arholma
For those interested in military history, this Cold War-era coastal defense installation is open to visitors. The underground facility spans four levels and is topped with a cannon that had a range of over 20 km. It was originally built to house up to 110 soldiers and officers.
Arholma Handelsbod
This small grocery store also includes a pharmacy branch, a liquor order point (Systembolaget agent), and a small pier café.
Arholma Church
Located on Kvarnberget above Kägelbacken, the church is a popular spot for outings, christenings, and weddings. It was inaugurated in 1928 by the then Archbishop Nathan Söderblom.
Arholma Nord
Stay right by the sea, whether you're a small or large group. Arholma Nord also features a restaurant overlooking the bay, a guest dock, and offers activities and live music – perfect for those seeking a lively atmosphere.
Bull-August Hostel
A simple but charming hostel where you share showers and toilets with other guests, but live right next to an enchanting forest. It’s housed in an old granary, offering a beautiful and cozy stay. Contact via website.
Källarstugan
Book this cozy granary-style accommodation with space for up to five guests. Includes shower, toilet, fridge, stove, microwave, and kettle.
Hiking Along the Archipelago Trail
The trail section on Arholma is moderately challenging and leads through villages, meadows, and cliffs, offering wide views of the Åland Sea. It’s the northernmost section of the Stockholm Archipelago Trail. Designated tenting areas are also available for those who wish to camp.
Activities for Everyone
There’s always something happening on Arholma – from traditional Swedish Midsummer celebrations and Christmas dinners to the annual seasonal plays, including the story of Saint George and the Dragon. Keep an eye on the events calendar to see what’s coming up during the year.
Please Note:
The island is a nature reserve. Be sure to follow all reserve rules and show respect for the wildlife and natural environment. Also, keep in mind that many businesses on Arholma are seasonal – check individual websites for opening hours.
