Grisslehamn between coast, hiking trail and maritime history

Grisslehamn combines a coastal hiking trail, maritime history and cultural-historical sites into a destination with a variety of distinct attractions. If you enjoy dividing your days between the shoreline, harbour and local history, the town offers several clearly defined points of interest.

Hike all the way to the coast

The long-distance hiking trail Roslagsleden runs from Danderyd to Grisslehamn and forms part of the European long-distance trail E6. Along its route, Roslagsleden follows the shoreline into Grisslehamn. There, the trail connects with the town’s coastal landscape. For active travellers, the combination of a long-distance trail and coastal scenery is especially characteristic.

Harbour, Ã…land Sea and sailing

The fishing harbour in Grisslehamn has 15 guest berths for boats. Another maritime connection is provided by the M/S Eckerö, which operates daily between Grisslehamn in Roslagen and Eckerö in Åland. The history of Postrodden also refers to the Åland Sea: the annual competition commemorates the centuries-old obligation of the farmers of Väddö and Eckerö to transport mail and passengers across the Åland Sea.

Postrodden has been held annually since 1974, usually in June. It is a popular festival at the starting and finishing locations. Those interested in sailing can also attend the summer sailing school run by Grisslehamns Motor- och Segelsällskap. It is aimed at children, young people and adults; the starting point is in Ornöviken.

Local history and Albert Engström

Several buildings point to different chapters in Grisslehamn’s history. Grisslehamn Chapel was inaugurated on 26 September 1909. Its altarpiece was inspired by the archipelago and its inhabitants. Grisslehamns Posthus was built in 1755–1756 as a post house and inn; the upper floor provided rooms for travellers.

Borgen was built as a barracks in 1812. After the military left Grisslehamn in 1869, Borgen became a guesthouse. Albert Engström is another focal point: the Albert Engström Museum is located in the former home of the artist, writer and satirist Albert Engström in Grisslehamn. It provides information about Engström’s artistic work as well as his life as an influential storyteller and public opinion-maker.

Albert Engström’s studio is a listed building of cultural-historical value, situated on a cliff near the sea outside Grisslehamn. The rooms in the studio have remained largely unchanged since Albert Engström’s death in 1940. The waterside studio was completed in 1907. At Augustberg, the rooms have been restored to their appearance during Albert Engström’s lifetime. These different sites each have their own focus: the museum concentrates on his work and life, while the studio and Augustberg place the preservation of the physical setting at the centre.

Seasonal nature experiences

Grisslehamn is suitable for observing seabirds, especially in September and October. This seasonal focus complements the coastal impressions of Roslagsleden and the town’s maritime history with a nature perspective. For comparison with other destinations in this travel selection, you can also find Skebobruk, Svanberga, Yxlan, Rimbo, Rånäs, Arholma and Spillarsboda.

For the overview of the wider travel region: Norrtälje.

More about the destination

Relevant information for planning your trip:

Grisslehamn.