Stockholm Archipelago Trail - Yxlan

Starting from the northern tip of Yxlan, a tranquil island in the Stockholm Archipelago, this 22 km (about 13.7 miles) trail offers a gentle journey through a landscape shaped by both nature and centuries of Swedish history. The trailhead is conveniently located near Köpmanholm, a small village with ferry connections from Furusund, making it accessible by both public transport and car. From Stockholm, take a bus to Furusund, then board the ferry to Yxlan; drivers can park near the ferry terminal before crossing.

Trail Overview and Navigation

The route meanders southward along Yxlan’s spine, with an elevation gain of around 200 metres (about 656 feet) spread gently across the distance. The terrain is mostly easy, with well-marked paths that wind through mixed forests of pine and birch, open meadows, and occasional rocky outcrops. Navigation is straightforward, but for added confidence and real-time updates, use HiiKER to track your progress and locate key waypoints.

Landmarks and Natural Highlights

Early in the hike, you’ll pass through the village of Köpmanholm, where traditional red cottages line the shore and the legacy of the archipelago’s fishing communities is still visible. About 5 km (3.1 miles) in, the trail skirts the edge of a serene bay, offering views across the water to the neighboring island of Blidö. Keep an eye out for sea eagles and ospreys, which nest in the area, and listen for the calls of woodpeckers echoing through the forest.

Midway along the route, near the hamlet of Norrsund, you’ll encounter remnants of old stone walls and farmsteads, silent witnesses to Yxlan’s agricultural past. The island’s history stretches back to the Viking Age, and while no major archaeological sites are directly on the trail, the landscape itself—shaped by centuries of farming, fishing, and forestry—tells its own story.

Wildlife and Flora

The archipelago’s unique mix of brackish water and sheltered woodlands supports a rich variety of plant and animal life. In spring and early summer, wildflowers carpet the meadows, while autumn brings a bounty of mushrooms and berries. Roe deer are common, and foxes are sometimes spotted darting through the undergrowth. Along the shoreline, look for herons stalking the shallows and, if you’re lucky, the splash of a seal.

Facilities and Logistics

There are few services along the trail itself, so bring sufficient water and food for the day. Public toilets and a small grocery store can be found in Köpmanholm at the start. The trail is best hiked from late spring to early autumn, as winter conditions can make some sections slippery or inaccessible. Mobile coverage is generally good, but always download offline maps from HiiKER before setting out.

At the southern end of the island, the trail concludes near the ferry terminal at Yxlö, where you can catch a return ferry to the mainland or continue exploring the archipelago. The Stockholm Archipelago Trail - Yxlan is ideal for those seeking a peaceful, easy hike with a blend of natural beauty and subtle historical depth.