Swedish Archipelago and Stockholm
The Swedish Archipelago consists of thousands of islands, some large and some small, and all very much loved by the locals. Many small houses are to be seen among the Scotts pine trees, lovely Sunday and vacation houses, away from the bustle of the city.
We had the opportunity to visit the island of Utö and see the old iron mine that was worked even by the Vikings since the year 800. Of course, it is abandoned now, full of groundwater. There is a quaint little museum next door with a great variety of minerals and the history of the mine. We also had the opportunity to ride bicycles around the small island and see a real windmill (being reconstructed now).
At midday we left Utö Island and began our leisurely ride to Stockholm. By early afternoon we were near the city and stopped the ship where we lowered the Zodiacs and began our leisurely ride into the city along a lovely waterway/park, built by one of the Swedish kings, where, of course, levies were taxed upon all those entering the city. En route we were assailed by a group of crazy HORNED Vikings with canapés and small doses of Aquavit, enlivened by a drinking song…
Into the bay we went, enjoying the great views of the city proper, bridges and the great marine activity of so many boats! There waited our faithful National Geographic Explorer, which we promptly boarded and where we later enjoyed a good satisfying dinner!
