One of Sweden's great archipelagos

The Tjust archipelago off Västervik is one of Sweden's most extensive coastal landscapes: thousands of small islands, skerries and bays best explored from the water. For guests who already know Ullevi's quiet inland lakes, the archipelago is a completely different kind of nature experience — more open, saltier, wider.

Why a kayak is worth it

Excursion boats show you the coast from the deck; a kayak, on the other hand, takes you right to the water — into small bays and up to islands that larger boats can't reach at all. Half-day tours need no prior experience; calmer stretches near the coast also suit beginners and families with older children.

Planning from Ullevi

It's about 40 kilometres from Ullevi to Västervik — enough travel time to plan the trip as a deliberate day out rather than squeezing it in on the side. Local kayak and watersports operators in and around Västervik rent equipment and sometimes offer guided tours; it's worth checking current offers on the spot, as availability changes with the season.

What to bring

Weatherproof clothing to change into, sun protection and enough water belong on every archipelago tour — weather on the coast can change faster than in the sheltered forest around Totebo. If in doubt, it's best to discuss the tour length directly with the local rental operator.

  • Starting point: Västervik, approx. 40 km from Ullevi
  • Suitable for: beginners on calm coastal stretches, experienced paddlers for longer tours
  • Contrast to Ullevi: open sea instead of quiet forest lakes