Ever dreamt of taking over a private island? Lulling around in complete privacy, with nothing but the sound of crashing waves and the whistling breeze?
Thanks to a new initiative from Visit Sweden, this dream is about to become a reality for five lucky winners…
While the likes of Lord of the Flies may have taught us otherwise in the classroom, private islands become the ultimate luxury for those fortunate enough to afford such adventures. The fast-paced nature of daily life has led to digital detoxes and no shortage of quirky wellness retreats over the years—but whatever happened to pure, peaceful tranquillity?
With 267,570 islands—more than any other country in the world—dotted through the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Bothnia, Sweden certainly has an incredible selection of havens to choose from.
Now, Visit Sweden is giving five lucky winners a certificate and the personal right to use a designated Swedish island for one year under a right-of-use agreement—this means the certificate does not confer any ownership rights to the island.
In addition to granting free rein of a Swedish isle for a whole 12 months, prizes also include a travel voucher entitling the winner and a companion of their choosing to round-trip travel to Sweden. The travel vouchers are valid for one trip between June 2026 to May 2027.
The five islands up for grabs are Tjuvholmen, Medbådan, Skötbådan, Storberget, and Marsten—more information on each is available here.
So, what’s the small print? Well, for starters, the competition isn’t open to billionaires (we’re out of the running, then), and entrants must be over 18 years of age—check the full terms and conditions here.
Also, for fear of being the ultimate killjoys, it’s worth noting that the islands “up for grabs” are little more than verdant, rocky outcrops. Realistically, you’re in it for the free flights to one of Europe’s pricier corners, as there’s plenty more to see than your new digs. That said, by all means, take a journey past and wave your certificate at your new shores.
So, are you interested? If so, record a one-minute video in 9:16 (portrait) and tell the board why you deserve your own Swedish island. The more fantastical, the better—sob stories welcome, but not necessary.
Upload your video via the online form by April 17, 2026, 11:59 p.m. CEST, and share your video on social media to increase your chances of winning—tagging @visitsweden and #YourSwedishIsland.
This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK.
