Hostels in Södermanland

Sodermanland is a historical province on the southeastern coast of Sweden. It is also commonly known as Sormland. It borders the other Swedish provinces of Ostergotland, Narke, Vastmanland and Uppland, as well as Lake Malaren and the Baltic Sea. The traditional Swedish province names serve no official purpose; they are historical names only. Parts of Stockholm County are within the province, making it one of the more heavily populated provinces. The three largest cities in Sodermanland are Stockholm, Nykoping, and Oxelosund.

Travellers can fly direct to Stockholm from most European and international destinations. From there, buses and trains can get you to many other towns and cities in the province, although for further exploring you may prefer your own vehicle.

Budget accommodation in Sodermanland is found in Stockholm, Nykoping, or Oxelosund. The word “vandrarhem” is the Swedish word for “hostel.” Many Swedes do speak English, so you can ask around for a hostel too. Outside of the bigger cities, hostels are rare except in vacation destionations. Consider a guest house (the Swedish call it “gasthus”) or a bed and breakfast if you can't find a hostel.

Once you have your accommodation sorted, you can explore Sodermanland. It is one of Sweden’s ancient provinces, and has some well-preserved Stone Age and newer castles. The most notable is the Renaissance fortress Gripsholm, on Lake Malaren, with its nearby Viking runestone. The landscape in Sodermanland is heavily dotted with later manor homes, castles, and more. Many are open to the public - whether as hotels or visitor attractions, like Royal Tullgarn Palace, a Royal Family summer home.

The cemetery at Skogskyrkogarden, in Stockholm, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Be sure to also visit Nykopingshus, where in 1317, King Birger invited his two brothers to a “peace banquet” and then murdered them to take full control of the crown. In Eskilstuna, visit the Ebelings Museum, with its unusual metal sculptures, and the Sigurdsristningen, a Viking Age stone carving that tells the story of Sigurn the Dragon Slayer - hero of Beowulf.

Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the Sormlandsleden trail, a 1000km long trail that runs through the province. It crosses through nature reserves, traverses the open landscape, and trails along the rugged Baltic Sea coast. In Lake Malaren, go kayaking, fishing, or canoeing, but check local regulations on fishing permits.

With the rugged coastline and the cultural and vibrant city of Stockholm, Sodermanland is the perfect place to explore Sweden.

Handwritten by local expert for Södermanland hostels Jakob Lombardi