Discover Yxlan: hiking, coast and island history

Yxlan brings together archipelago scenery, hiking and island history. When planning your trip, it helps to choose your focus first: the 24-kilometre section of the Stockholm Archipelago Trail, a stop on the coast or Konstrundan in August. Yxlan lies between Furusund and Blidö and forms a central section of Blidöleden, a ferry connection between islands in the archipelago.

Hiking on Yxlan: route and navigation

The Yxlan section of the Stockholm Archipelago Trail is 24 kilometres long and is considered a moderately challenging hike. The route runs close to the sea through varied terrain and passes holiday-home developments and historic villages. It thus combines coastal scenery and settlement history in one route. The length and stated difficulty are important details when deciding whether this hike suits your planned stay.

The trail is not marked on the ground. Follow the local printed tourist map or the interactive map instead. The hike can start at the ferry terminal in Köpmanholm or at one of the jetties served by the Waxholmsbolaget ferry. In the southern part, according to a route notice dated 8 August 2025, the trail runs along the east side of the lake because beavers had made the former path around the lake almost impassable. Check the current map before setting out.

The lighthouse stands at the southernmost point of Yxlan’s west coast. The path there does not pass through the residential area, so it is important to follow the map for the outward and return journeys. Other worthwhile stops along the hiking trail include Lake Träsket and Stortallen, an old pine tree. As well as the longer hike, these named destinations offer individual points of interest to help guide your visit.

Coast, bathing spot and archipelago scenery

Österviken bathing spot lies on the east side of the northern tip of Yxlan. It offers about 60 metres of shoreline, a sandy beach and a level grassy area, and is a sea-bathing spot. As a coastal stop, Österviken is clearly distinct from destinations inland and the viewpoints in the north. There, open rocky hilltops offer expansive views of the Åland Sea. Yxlan’s landscape also includes forests, meadows, rocky shores and quiet bays.

The wildlife also spans land and sea: Yxlan is home to roe deer, foxes and hares, among other animals, as well as various bird species; the sea has fish and shellfish. Together with the varied landscape, this shapes the natural side of the destination, which extends beyond the hiking trail.

Island history and Konstrundan

Yxlan has archaeological remains, including burial grounds and runestones. During the Viking Age and the Middle Ages, the island was an important area for trade and seafaring. In modern times, it was shaped mainly by agriculture and fishing. Köpmanholm is known as a pilotage, customs and telegraph station; old house foundations lie in the western part of Skaftet. Trojeborg is a labyrinth associated with the belief that it brings good luck when fishing.

Another reason to visit is Konstrundan. This non-profit event began as the personal initiative of several artists from Yxlan and takes place every year in August. Around fifteen artists open their homes and studios to visitors. If you would like to plan your trip around it, check the current programme and dates for that year’s event.

Getting there by car ferry

A free car ferry connects Yxlan with Furusund. The crossing is 530 metres long and takes four minutes. Check the service information before travelling. When planning the rest of your trip, you can consider this connection alongside the hiking options, coast and cultural events as a practical aspect in its own right.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Arholma, Spillarsboda, Rimbo, Vagnsunda, Svanberga, Blidö, Väddö, Rånäs.

For the main travel overview: Norrtälje.