In southern Sweden’s rolling countryside, Hoby Kulle Herrgård’s rose-pink façade emerges softly from the greenery. Inside, the 19th-century manor embraces its quirks – creaking floors, mismatched antiques, botanical prints and layered textiles creating a lived-in charm. Beyond, orchards, kitchen gardens and pasture with grazing ponies set the scene. Days unfold freely: apple picking, cycling quiet lanes or stretching out in the grass. Evenings centre on generous, seasonal meals shaped by the estate’s produce and surrounding landscape.

Designed by Andreas Martin-Löf, and with interiors by Tobias Vernon, it comes to no surprise that Landet Stay offers both a serene escape from the Swedish capital and also, a completely enchanting art and design wonderland. Never has the Archipelago been more alluring: head here for your luxurious escape into nature. 

Trestle tables line the terrace of the wooden shack and family-run restaurant Båtshaketon, at the most southern tip of Ålö. Fishing nets, vintage red-and-white life rings, and vintage sailing lights mark the interiors, the simple gravel garden paved by flowering, potted plants and strawberry vines. Grilled fresh fish is served daily on the outside BBQ alongside plates of pickled salmon, Skagen mash (a creamy prawn salad with a generous amount of dill), and homegrown buttery potatoes.   

Follow the gravel trail from Utö to Rävstavik Bay, paved by forest and woodland for an easier hike, or set out on the more scenic 10km loop around the northern tip of the island. Fishing villages, pastures, and lakes lead to Stora Sandvik before continuing to the rocky Rävstavik Bay. It’s here that the island boasts the best cliffs for jumping into the chilly Baltic Sea.