Archipelagos have always been a source of mystery and intrigue. Throughout history, these island groupings have been home to pirates, separatists and the fiercely private. Visiting a city situated around such islands provides the best of both worlds: sophistication and isolation. Stockholm, Hong Kong and Seattle are known for their glistening waterfront skylines, but what lies beyond their urban harbours?

Stockholm

The best way to experience Stockholm is by sea. Approximately 30,000 islands make up the Stockholm archipelago. Many are only active in the summer and some are so small they house just a single estate. And luckily for visitors to Stockholm, many of these tiny islands are only a short ferry ride from the city, making them well worth an overnight visit.

Sandön is renowned for its sailing community and the archipelago's best spa. The Royal Swedish Yacht Club, Sweden's storied sailing institution, hosts the competitive annual Round Gotlund Race (the first week in July) and operates a marina in the main port of Sandhamn. Seglarhotellet, the island's major hotel and spa, offers great views of the water and refreshingly stylish service with plenty of opportunities to sunbathe on the nearby rocks and beaches.

For cyclists, the flatter isle of Svartsö provides ample opportunities for biking and the added perk of a chance to stay at the charming cottage hotel Svartsö Herrgårdspensionat. Built in 1906 by theatre director Gustaf Collijin, the facade is a faint yellow to match the buttery summer sunsets.

In early April, a very special migration takes place: the Prince van Orangiën hotel moves from its winter berth in Stockholm to the island of Oaxen. Impeccably designed in rich mahoganies with contemporary accents, this historic tug boat-cum-hotel hosts guests in seven luxury cabins. The proprietors also run one of the world's top restaurants, Oaxen Krog, just next door, which, like the moored hotel, is only open during the warmer months.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong brings to mind memories of rickety sea-faring “junks” on the waterfront, but most of old-world Hong Kong now resides in the outlying islands. While there are a few acceptable hotels to stay overnight, day trips take less than an hour and many wealthy Hong Kong residents and expats have been buying up beachside real estate for a truly painless commute.

Lantau Island is Hong Kong’s largest, with over half of it dedicated to park land alone. Take the ferry 40 minutes from bustling Central to sleepy Mui Wo and rent a bicycle for the day or hit the beaches and hike on the remote Lantau Trail. On South Lantau Road near the village of Pui O is Hong Kong's largest beach, which, thanks to unique wind patterns, is ideal for swimming and windsurfing. Let beachside Ooh La La serve the cocktails while you relax and watch the island's native water buffalo take a lazy dip in the South China Sea. And on the other end of the island, Discovery Bay Golf Club offers 27 holes and various opportunities for international golf club members to play on their links.

Lamma Island is even more rural—no cars allowed. Enjoy charmingly remote beaches and a unique opportunity to feast on a gourmet serving of roast pigeon at Han Lok Yuen. The dining room is situated outdoors on the edge of a lush, mountainside jungle. Try Man Fung Seafood Restaurant for an impressive array of the freshest seafood, like steamed grouper or clay pot crab. If you want it but don't see it on the menu, feel free to point to a tank and tell the chef how to prepare it.

Seattle

Seattle makes it impossible to forget that it's a seafaring city. With sea mists rolling up the city’s hills at all hours of the day, Seattle is defined by the Puget Sound waterfront. The city is closest to Bainbridge Island and the epic San Juan Islands are just a short drive and a ferry ride away.

Bainbridge Island offers great skyline views, a vineyard that boasts a perfect cherry and oak tinged Pinot Noir and romantic cottage dining at the gourmet restaurant The Four Swallows. On nearby Vashon Island a car is required to reach La Boucherie, a restaurant operated alongside the grass-fed Sea Breeze Farm. Dine on whatever is in season—fresh cuts of pork shoulder or goose egg custard clafoutis. Don’t forget to pick up fresh Alpine-modeled cheese for the next day's picnic.

If you're still not done exploring, head north to the San Juan Islands for various outdoor adventures, like kayaking and mountain biking among some of the Northwest's only natural rain forests. Run out of breath? Breathe deep at Rosario Resort and Spa, a seaside Craftsman-style mansion on Orcas Island.