Have you ever dreamed of owning your own island? What about adopting one?
Well, now you can – as Sweden is offering lucky Brits the chance to adopt an island in the country to take under their wing.
Sweden, which has more than 267,000 islands – more than any other country in the world – is offering UK travellers a unique opportunity to adopt one of five untouched islands.
They are available not for purchase, but for adoption – to visit and look after.
Launched by Visit Sweden in collaboration with the National Property Board, which manages state-owned cultural heritage properties, the ‘Your Swedish Island’ initiative invites travellers to apply for the chance 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, posting a letter, or joining a traditional Midsummer celebration.
Included for winners is a one-year right to use one of the five selected islands, a diploma certifying the winner as official island custodian, a trip to Sweden and a contract outlining basic stewardship responsibilities.
And it’s right on trend. For many Brits, escaping to a private island is the ultimate dream, representing much more than luxury.
Now you can apply to adopt a Swedish island for a year to take care of
A YouGov survey reveals that seven in 10 Brits would embrace the opportunity to be away from crowds, highlighting the growing appeal of peaceful, remote destinations.
The reasons for solitude vary. In the UK, 15 per cent of respondents said they would welcome time away from their boss.
Plus, escaping the crowds on public transport is a key motivation.
The survey also found that Brits, like many people around the world, are increasingly drawn to simplicity and nature.
Instead, travellers are turning to serene destinations such as Sweden’s islands as an escape from overcrowding and overtourism.
Susanne Andersson, CEO at Visit Sweden, said: ‘Sweden has more islands than any other country in the world.
‘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.’
Your Swedish Island offers quality of life experiences that are increasingly resonating with travellers around the world.
Private islands have long been the ultimate luxury – but now that’s about to change
‘If you don’t get one of these islands, don’t worry. Sweden has many more that everyone can enjoy,’ says Susanne.
For those enjoying travel, Sweden’s island landscape is both diverse and abundant – offering something for every version of what ‘getting away’ might mean.
Applications open for international travellers on February 17, 2026, and are accepted until April 17, 2026.
A jury will select five successful applicants based on creativity and personal motivation.
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Sweden offering Brits the chance to adopt their own island
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