Stendörren, Södermanland | Exploring Sweden

Stendörren is a nature reserve located on the Baltic Sea coast of Sweden, between the towns of Nyköping and Trosa. It is situated in Nyköping Municipality, within the county of Södermanland. The reserve is one of the most popular and accessible natural gems in eastern Sweden. It is particularly known for its unique system of suspension bridges that allows visitors to walk out into the archipelago. The area is part of the historic Bälinge Parish.

The character of Stendörren is defined by its function as a gateway to the Södermanland archipelago. Its identity is almost entirely tied to the suspension bridges that connect several of the inner islands, making the island landscape accessible to everyone without the need for a boat. The area is a classic example of the coastal landscape of the region, with smooth, glacially-scoured granite cliffs, pine forests, and sheltered bays. It is a major destination for outdoor recreation, attracting families, hikers, and nature enthusiasts throughout the year.

A Short History of Stendörren

The history of Stendörren is that of a strategic and often treacherous seaway that was transformed into a beloved public nature reserve in the 20th century. For centuries, the narrow strait that gives the area its name was a key route for ships navigating the inner archipelago. The story of the area is one of its transition from a functional maritime and agricultural landscape to a protected area focused on conservation and public access to nature. This has made it one of the most important recreational areas in the Södermanland region.

An Ancient Seaway

The strait that passes through the reserve has been an important route for ships for centuries. The name Stendörren, which translates to “The Stone Door,” is marked on maps of the Bälinge Parish dating back to 1678. The name likely refers to the narrow and difficult passage between the islands. For centuries, this was a key inner channel for ships traveling along the coast, providing a more sheltered route than the open sea. The area also included several small farmsteads, such as those at Aspnäset, Stendörren, and Griskär.

A Modern Nature Reserve

The Stendörren Nature Reserve was officially established in 1972. The reserve covers an area of 923 hectares, including both land and water areas of the archipelago. The creation of the reserve was part of a wider movement in Sweden to protect valuable natural landscapes and to make them accessible for public recreation. The most significant development in its modern history was the construction of the famous suspension bridges and the Naturum visitor center. This infrastructure has made the reserve one of the most popular and well-known nature destinations in eastern Sweden.

Things to Do and See

The sights at Stendörren are focused on its unique archipelago landscape and the infrastructure that makes it so accessible. The main attractions are the suspension bridges, the visitor center, and the panoramic views from the watchtower.

The Suspension Bridges

The suspension bridges are the most famous and iconic feature of Stendörren. These bridges connect the mainland with the nearby islands of Äspskär and Stora Krokholmen. This unique system of walkways allows visitors to walk out among the islands of the inner archipelago, which is an experience that usually requires a boat. The bridges have become a symbol of the nature reserve and are a major draw for tourists. They provide a safe and easy way to experience the coastal island landscape up close.

Naturum Stendörren

The Naturum Stendörren is the main visitor center for the reserve. The center is run by the County Administrative Board and provides information about the nature and cultural history of the area. It has exhibitions that focus on the unique environment of the Baltic Sea and the archipelago. The center’s staff provide guided tours and educational activities, especially during the summer months. It also has activities for children, such as a touch tank where they can learn about the small creatures that live in the water.

The Watch Tower

A new watchtower was built at Stendörren in 2021. The tower is located on a high cliff and offers an impressive panoramic view of the coastal landscape. The tower itself is approximately 11 meters high. From the top viewing platform, visitors can see a wide expanse of the Stendörren Nature Reserve and the surrounding archipelago. The location on the high cliff means that the view is very expansive. It is a key point for photography and for getting an overview of the area.

The Archipelago Landscape

The Södermanland archipelago landscape at Stendörren is a sight in its own right. The area is characterized by the smooth, glacially-scoured granite cliffs that are typical of this part of the Baltic coast. The islands are covered with a mix of pine forests and deciduous trees. The sheltered bays and narrow straits between the islands create a scenic and varied environment. The area is a key example of the unique natural beauty of the Swedish archipelago.

Recreational Activities

Stendörren is a major center for outdoor recreation. The possibilities are endless for those who wish to explore the natural beauty of the area. The reserve has several designated barbecue spots and numerous possibilities for picnics.

Hiking

Hiking is the primary recreational activity at Stendörren. The reserve has an extensive network of well-marked walking trails. These trails lead through the coastal forests and out onto the islands via the suspension bridges. The famous Sörmlandsleden long-distance trail also passes through the reserve. The trails are of varying lengths and difficulty levels, making the area suitable for both short family walks and longer day hikes.

Fishing and Kayaking

The cliffs and sheltered bays of the nature reserve are popular spots for recreational fishing. Anglers can fish for species like pike and perch, which are common in the brackish waters of the Baltic Sea. The calm, protected waters between the islands also make the area an ideal destination for sea kayaking. Kayaking provides a way to explore the parts of the archipelago that are not accessible on foot.

Getting Around in Stendörren

Navigating the Stendörren Nature Reserve is done entirely on foot. The reserve has a large central parking area from which a network of accessible paths and more rugged trails branch out.

On Foot: The Trails and Bridges

Walking is the only way to explore the reserve. A network of walking trails leads from the main parking area to the key sights, including the Naturum and the start of the suspension bridges. The paths are well-maintained. Many of the main paths are also accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, making it an inclusive destination.

How to Get to Stendörren

Reaching the Stendörren Nature Reserve requires travel to the coast of Södermanland, between the towns of Nyköping and Trosa. A car is the most practical means of transport, as public transport links to the reserve are limited, especially outside the summer season.

The Open Road: Driving to the Coast

Driving is the most common and practical way to reach Stendörren. The nature reserve is located on Route 219, the main regional road between Nyköping and Vagnhärad. The entrance to the reserve is well-signposted from this road. A car provides the flexibility to explore the wider Södermanland region. There is a large public parking area at the reserve, though it can become full during peak summer weekends.

Arriving by Air: Stockholm Skavsta Airport

The closest airport with regular international connections is Stockholm Skavsta Airport (NYO). It is located near Nyköping, approximately 37 kilometers to the west. Skavsta is a hub for low-cost carriers. Sweden’s main international airport, Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN), is located about 120 kilometers away. From either of these airports, a rental car is the most practical option for completing the journey.

On Track: A Journey by Rail and Bus

Stendörren does not have its own train station. The closest major train stations are located in the nearby cities of Nyköping and Vagnhärad. Both of these stations have frequent train connections to Stockholm and other parts of Sweden. From the train stations, a regional bus service is required to reach the nature reserve.

Connecting by Coach

The regional bus service, operated by Sörmlandstrafiken, connects Stendörren with the surrounding region. Bus line 555 runs between Nyköping and Vagnhärad and has a stop at “Stendörren,” which is located on Route 219. From the bus stop, a walk of approximately 3 kilometers is required to reach the main part of the nature reserve with the Naturum and the bridges. Bus services may be infrequent, so it is essential to check schedules in advance.

Driving Distances

The driving distance from 20 regional cities, according to Google Maps:

• Nyköping, Sweden – 23 kilometers (0 h 20 min)
• Vagnhärad, Sweden – 24 kilometers (0 h 20 min)
• Trosa, Sweden – 30 kilometers (0 h 30 min)
• Gnesta, Sweden – 43 kilometers (0 h 40 min)
• Södertälje, Sweden – 57 kilometers (0 h 40 min)
• Katrineholm, Sweden – 79 kilometers (1 h 10 min)
• Norrköping, Sweden – 86 kilometers (1 h 00 min)
• Stockholm, Sweden – 90 kilometers (1 h 10 min)
• Eskilstuna, Sweden – 107 kilometers (1 h 20 min)
• Linköping, Sweden – 132 kilometers (1 h 30 min)
• Uppsala, Sweden – 155 kilometers (1 h 50 min)
• Västerås, Sweden – 165 kilometers (2 h 00 min)
• Örebro, Sweden – 192 kilometers (2 h 10 min)
• Jönköping, Sweden – 262 kilometers (2 h 40 min)
• Kalmar, Sweden – 275 kilometers (3 h 10 min)
• Karlstad, Sweden – 318 kilometers (3 h 40 min)
• Gothenburg, Sweden – 399 kilometers (4 h 20 min)
• Sundsvall, Sweden – 474 kilometers (4 h 50 min)
• Oslo, Norway – 498 kilometers (5 h 40 min)
• Malmö, Sweden – 543 kilometers (5 h 20 min)
• Copenhagen, Denmark – 585 kilometers (6 h 00 min)
• Östersund, Sweden – 637 kilometers (6 h 40 min)
• Luleå, Sweden – 999 kilometers (10 h 20 min)
• Kiruna, Sweden – 1,326 kilometers (15 h 00 min)
• London, UK – 1,811 kilometers (19 h 50 min, includes ferry/tunnel)

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This post was first published 2023-06-23 and was updated 2025-07-27