Also known as Saltsjö-Boo, Boo lies east of Stockholm on the island of Värmdö. It’s a laid-back base for exploring the beaches, coastal villages and fortifications of the Stockholm Archipelago. It’s also on the doorstep of the Velamsund nature reserve’s recreational pursuits.
Things to do in Boo
Boo makes an ideal base for visiting Fjäderholmarna, a group of islands that form part of the Stockholm Archipelago and lie on a popular ferry route between Sweden and several Baltic destinations. The islands can all easily be visited as a day trip, with picturesque beaches, artisan workshops and authentic Swedish restaurants to discover.
Further north is the island of Vaxholmen, which is dominated by a fortress originally constructed in 1548 by Gustav I to protect Stockholm against attack. Now preserved as the Vaxholm Fortress Museum, you can wander through its beautifully restored rooms and halls, then learn about life during the Crimean War in the bombproof vaults. The most impressive views of the Vaxholm Fortress can be enjoyed as you approach the island by boat.
A short drive east of Boo is the Velamsund nature reserve, a protected area of pine-covered mountains and valleys once used for farming. It’s traversed by numerous hiking trails, including an illuminated electric light trail, and encompasses a lake where you can swim and picnic during the warmer months. For elevated views across the region and the island of Baggensfjärden, climb to the top of Himlaberget.
Getting around Boo
Boo is around 20 minutes’ drive from the centre of Stockholm and just under an hour from Stockholm Arlanda Airport. Buses connect Boo with the Swedish capital and travel throughout the city while boats and ferries connect to islands within the Stockholm Archipelago.