Kayaking and Rhododendron Magic in Källskär
On a beautiful June morning, I embarked on a kayaking trip to Källskär island. Källskär is a mystical island that I had visited before but never stayed the night there. My journey started from the little sandy shore of Sandvik Marina & Camping, nestled on the northern shores of Kökar islands.
Kökar’s outer and inner routes are the two possible ways to reach Källskär. The outer route on the western side exposes itself to the wind, creating waves during windy weather. It lacks natural shelter since it’s devoid of islands that could mitigate the impact of the wind.
In contrast, navigating between Kökar’s main islands, the inner route provides substantial shelter. It was quite windy, so I chose the inner route to ensure a more protected and serene kayaking experience.
I paddled through a narrow channel, past the idyllic Karlby village with charming red fisherman huts. I have marked my route on green on the map above.
After a two-hour paddle, I landed on Källskär’s northwesterly cove, on a little beach. A quaint fisherman’s hut and a grassy expanse invited me to set up camp, seemingly the sole inhabitant of the island that evening. Beside the hut, a table and benches offer a good spot for cooking.
Blooming Rhododendrons in the outer archipelago
As there was still plenty of daylight, I strolled through Källskär through the picturesque path leading to the Count’s villa and garden.
The journey itself, adorned with boardwalks and granite cliffs, is an uplifting experience. But little did I know what a delightful June surprise was waiting for me! As I was coming close to the villa, I saw a burst of unexpected color – the rhododendrons in the garden were blooming!
Discovering a blossoming garden amidst the outer archipelago felt surreal. In a landscape where only shallow juniper and spiky rosehips thrive, the vibrant blooms added an unexpected touch of color and beauty.
I sat in the garden for a long time. The birds chirping in the trees was the only noise I heard in addition to the wind in the trees. The garden felt truly magical. I sensed this would become a lasting memory.
Choosing a different path on my way back, I ascended a high cliff near my camp, treating myself to a serene view and a breathtaking sunset. The night passed quietly, devoid of any supernatural occurrences, and I woke up to a sunny morning.
After cooking breakfast, I dismantled my camp and headed back along the west side of Kökar main island, as the wind wasn’t as strong as the day before. What a perfect island getaway I had!
Do your own kayaking adventure to källskär
If you want to experience the same adventure I did, you can! Sandvik Marina & Camping rents kayaks for a reasonable daily charge, and the package includes all equipment needed (paddle, spray deck, lifevest). You need to take water and some food with you, as there are no services on the island (but you can ask Sandvik about a picnic package).
If you want to stay the night, you need to bring your camping equipment (tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, food, etc. No hammocks as there are no suitable trees!).
However, please note that you need to have experience in paddling and especially in navigating. Otherwise, I highly suggest you take organized boat tours to the island.
