Full Day of Ice Skating in Stockholm

If you’re visiting Stockholm in winter and craving an activity that combines natural beauty, cultural charm, and a bit of outdoor fun, the Full Day of Ice Skating tour offers an inviting way to experience all three. While I haven’t personally tried this tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a well-organized, friendly, and genuinely enjoyable experience that appeals to both beginners and those eager to brush up on their skating skills.

What really makes this tour stand out are three things: professional guides who prioritize safety and learning, beautiful natural scenery that enhances the experience, and warm Swedish hospitality with a hearty lunch around the fire. However, travelers should keep in mind that weather and ice conditions are outside the organizers’ control, which might affect whether you get to skate on the day you book. This activity is best suited for adventurous spirits eager to try something new but who also appreciate the comforts of good guidance and authentic local encounters.

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Key Points

Ideal for beginners and all skill levels with expert instruction and safety equipment
Includes transportation and a warm, traditional Swedish lunch for great value
Small group sizes (max. 8) ensure personalized attention and safety
Beautiful scenery and local insights add cultural depth to the outdoor activity
Weather-dependent — ice conditions can vary, but alternative activities are available
Highly rated with a 4.6/5 based on 31 reviews, emphasizing safety, fun, and good organization

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An In-Depth Look at the Stockholm Ice Skating Tour

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Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins at The Green Trails, a conveniently located meeting point just a short walk from Skanstull or Mariatorget metro stations, and within easy reach from Stockholm Södra station. From here, the group is whisked away by minibus to the best ice conditions of the day, ensuring that you don’t waste time searching for suitable lakes or rinks. This transport aspect adds a layer of comfort, especially in winter, when cold travel can be cumbersome.

Safety and Guidance

Once at the ice, the first priority is safety. The guide, who is both knowledgeable and personable, provides detailed instructions and a safety video explaining what to do if someone falls through the ice—a rare but crucial piece of knowledge in ice skating adventures. From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Jonas and Jasper do a fantastic job creating a safe environment, with one reviewer noting, “I felt completely safe with Jonas on the ice,” and another praising Jasper for his attentiveness and local facts.

Learning and Progression

The experience is designed to be beginner-friendly. The group receives instruction on skating techniques, with a balance between group practice and individual coaching. Many reviewers mention how quickly they improved, with one saying, “We’ll be skating as if we’ve done it many times before.” This progression is thanks to the personalized guidance, with no more than 8 participants per guide, fostering a supportive environment where everyone can gain confidence.

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Scenic Drive and Secret Stops

Midway through, the tour includes scenic drives through Stockholm County, offering glimpses of winter landscapes that make the whole experience feel like an authentic outdoor adventure. The “secret stops” are guided tours that reveal hidden or lesser-known spots, adding cultural and natural context that elevates the day well beyond just skating.

One reviewer shared that they skated on Magelungen Lake, about 10 km south of Södermalm, proving the tour takes you to scenic locations off the beaten path. These stops are perfect for capturing photos or simply soaking in the peaceful winter vistas.

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The Lunch Experience

A highlight for many participants is the warm lunch around a campfire. The menu typically includes homemade soup, bread, cheese, and biscuits, often accompanied by traditional Swedish glögg or tea. The reviewer who raved about homemade soup with crackers emphasized how nourishing and cozy the meal was, especially after a morning on the ice. Sharing food in this setting creates a communal atmosphere, making the experience memorable.

Return Journey

After a full day of skating, sightseeing, and good eats, you’ll head back to The Green Trails, feeling both accomplished and pleasantly tired. The small group size ensures that everyone can reflect on their new skills, swap stories, and enjoy the relaxing ride home.

The Value of This Ice Skating Experience

When considering the cost, this tour offers excellent value for a full-day adventure outside the city. Included in the price are transportation, high-quality equipment (skates, boots, helmets, knee and elbow pads), a hearty lunch, Swedish fika, and a dry bag for your belongings. The small group size not only guarantees individual guidance but also keeps the atmosphere intimate and engaging.

The equipment quality is worth noting—new for 2024 are the ice picks, poles, and other safety gear, which greatly enhance confidence, especially for beginners. Many reviews highlight how the equipment didn’t feel cumbersome, and carrying a backpack with spare clothes didn’t weigh down the experience.

Flexibility and Weather Considerations

One crucial aspect to remember is the dependency on weather. The organizers stress that ice conditions are beyond their control, but last winter, the tour successfully skated on local lakes throughout the season. If conditions aren’t suitable, an alternative activity like a winter hike will be arranged. This flexibility ensures that you still get to enjoy a winter outdoor activity, even if skating isn’t possible.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers eager to learn or improve their skating skills amidst beautiful surroundings. Its beginner-friendly approach, combined with expert guidance and safety, makes it accessible for almost everyone. If you love the idea of combining outdoor adventure with cultural touches and good food, this tour hits the spot.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

The Green Trails and Meeting Point

Starting at a conveniently located spot, the tour kicks off with a quick introduction from your guide—an essential step to ensure everyone feels comfortable and understands safety procedures. This brief sets a friendly tone and reassures first-timers.

Safety Briefing and Ice Conditions

After a safety demonstration—featuring a short video—you’re equipped with gear, including helmets, knee, and elbow pads. This setup reassures those nervous about falling or mishaps. Many reviewers mentioned how safe they felt thanks to the thorough instructions and attentive guides like Jonas and Jasper.

Scenic Drive and Secret Stops

The scenic drives through Stockholm County showcase the winter landscape with snow-covered trees and frozen lakes, creating picture-perfect moments. The “secret stops” are more than just scenic—they’re guided tours that reveal local insights and hidden spots, adding depth to the day.

Skating Session: Practice and Confidence

As everyone gains confidence, the group transitions from individual practice to a relaxed skating stroll along the lake, stopping periodically. Reviewers expressed how quickly they picked up techniques, with one noting, “We developed confidence and skills during this full-day program.”

Lunch and Fire-side Relaxation

The cozy lunch around the campfire is a highlight. The homemade soup, bread, and hot drinks foster camaraderie and warmth—important when outdoors in winter. It’s a chance to unwind and appreciate the natural setting.

Returning Home

The day winds down with reflections on newfound skills and scenic views, ensuring you leave with lasting memories. The small group setting means you’ll likely exchange contact info or plan to return.

Final Thoughts on the Full Day Ice Skating Tour

This experience offers a lovely balance of adventure, culture, and comfort. The guides’ focus on safety, learning, and local storytelling makes it more than just an outdoor activity—it’s an immersive winter day in Stockholm.

The inclusion of transport, quality equipment, a hearty meal, and small-group attention justifies the price, especially considering the personalized and authentic nature of the tour. The scenic stops and breaks for photos or quiet moments give it a relaxed, unhurried feel.

If you’re visiting Stockholm during winter, enjoy outdoor activities that let you connect with nature and local culture. This tour is especially suited for those who want beginner-friendly outdoor fun with expert guidance, good company, and the chance to learn a bit about Swedish winter life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for absolute beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be beginner-friendly, with safety instructions, proper equipment, and guidance from experienced instructors.

What should I wear for the trip?
Bring warm, breathable outdoor clothing, including gloves, hat, scarf, sunglasses, and thermal socks. The tour recommends layering with wool or polyester for quick-drying comfort.

What happens if the ice isn’t safe to skate on?
If weather conditions prevent safe skating, the organizers will organize an alternative activity, most likely a winter hike, on the same day.

How long is the entire experience?
The tour lasts around 7 hours, including transportation, skating, breaks, and lunch.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes a warm, homemade lunch, Swedish fika (pastry and tea/coffee), and a water bottle.

How big are the groups?
The experience is limited to 8 guests per guide, ensuring plenty of personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

To sum it up, the Full Day of Ice Skating in Stockholm offers a well-rounded winter experience that balances outdoor adventure, cultural insight, and cozy Swedish hospitality. It’s perfect for those new to skating or anyone wanting to enjoy Stockholm’s winter scenery in a fun, safe, and social setting. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, this tour promises a memorable day on the ice—highlighted by beautiful views, expert guidance, and good company.