Imagine having your own island for an entire year—complete with breathtaking scenery, peaceful solitude and endless opportunities to reconnect with nature. That’s exactly what five lucky travelers from around the world have won through Visit Sweden’s unique “Your Swedish Island” campaign.
The international contest attracted an overwhelming 2,242 applications from people in 100 countries, reflecting a growing desire among travelers to escape crowded tourist destinations in favor of slower, more immersive experiences surrounded by nature.
Rather than giving away ownership of the islands, Visit Sweden selected five winners to become temporary custodians of remote islands scattered throughout the country’s picturesque coastline and archipelagos. Their role is to enjoy the islands while embracing Sweden’s long-standing tradition of protecting and respecting the natural environment.
The winners come from five different countries. Eric Holmer of the United States will spend the year caring for Skötbådan in the Stockholm Archipelago. Joining him are Bronwen Bird of Canada, who was awarded Storberget in the Stockholm Archipelago; Miriam Wiskemann of Germany, who will oversee Marsten in Halland; Freek van Heertum of the Netherlands, who received Medbådan in Sweden’s Lapland region; and Jonathan Scyboz of Switzerland, who will become custodian of Tjuvholmen on Sweden’s west coast.
Each winner receives the right to use their assigned island for one year, travel vouchers for two people to visit Sweden, an official island custodian diploma and guidance on Sweden’s environmental stewardship practices and responsible access to nature.
According to Visit Sweden CEO Susanne Andersson, the enthusiastic global response highlights a major shift in travel preferences.
“People around the world are increasingly looking for space, tranquility and meaningful connections with nature,” Andersson said. “Our goal was to showcase a side of Sweden that offers simplicity, freedom and the opportunity to experience nature responsibly.”
The campaign also reflects findings from a YouGov survey commissioned by Visit Sweden, which found that 44% of respondents worldwide said they would gladly escape the crowds by retreating to their own island.
Although only five travelers were selected, Visit Sweden stresses that the country’s islands remain accessible to everyone. Thanks to Sweden’s Right of Public Access, known as Allemansrätten, visitors are free to explore much of the nation’s natural landscape while respecting wildlife, local communities and the environment.
From tiny rocky islets in the Stockholm Archipelago to forest-covered islands scattered across Sweden’s lakes, the country boasts more islands than any other nation in the world, offering countless opportunities for travelers seeking peace, outdoor adventure and unforgettable scenery—whether they win a contest or simply plan their next vacation.