STOCKHOLM, 19 February 2026: The idea of escaping to a private island has long symbolised the ultimate dream for many, with islands embodying not just luxury but also space, rest and recovery.
Sweden now offers the opportunity to make this dream come true by providing five of the country’s islands to international travellers for one year of use.
A recent global YouGov survey found that people are drawn to silence, fresh air, and free access to nature.
77% said they would consider visiting a Swedish island. 44% of respondents said they would gladly escape the crowds by going to their own island. In Germany and France, one in five admits they’d appreciate some time away from their life partner.
The initiative, Your Swedish Island, now redefines luxury as simplicity, space, and nature rather than exclusivity or excess. Sweden has 267,570 islands.
“Sweden has more islands than any other country in the world, and we would like to invite people to enjoy what may be the most genuine form of luxury: the peace and tranquillity of nature on your own island”, says Visit Sweden CEO Susanne Andersson.
The initiative, launched by Visit Sweden in partnership with the National Property Board, welcomes travellers to apply to become custodians of one of five carefully selected islands. Each location is secluded yet close enough to a local community for essentials—whether it’s picking up groceries, sending a letter, or joining a traditional Midsummer celebration.
International travellers are welcome to upload videos explaining why they deserve a one-year right to use one of the five selected islands. A jury will select successful applicants based on creativity and personal motivation, who win a trip to Sweden.
“If you don’t get one of these islands, don’t worry. Sweden has many more for everyone to enjoy,” says Andersson.
(Source: Survey, June/July 2025, YouGov/Visit Sweden)
