Ingmarsö and Brottö — living islands in the central archipelago

Geography and location

Ingmarsö is an island of 6.12 km² in the Stockholm archipelago, Österåker municipality. Jetty coordinates: 59°27,9N 18°45,4E. The western part of the island consists of the Brottö peninsula, whose eastern part houses a nature reserve. The islands have no road connections to the mainland and are entirely dependent on regular boat traffic. Ingmarsö was first documented in 1539, when island farmers paid tax — including cod — to Gustav Vasa.

History and cultural heritage

The population peak was reached around 1910 with 223 registered inhabitants. A school opened in 1867 and a shop in 1887. On the western side of the island a brickworks operated 1875–1900. In 2004 the County Administrative Board established Brottö archipelago farming — Stockholm County's first cultural reserve — to preserve traditional small-scale agriculture. Scottish Highland cattle graze the islands' coastal meadows and keep the vegetation open.

Nature and outdoor life

The islands' hiking trails are part of the Stockholm Archipelago Trail. Paradiset — a beautiful lagoon between Ingmarsö and Finnhamn — is a popular destination for kayaking and open-air bathing. The natural scenery alternates between deciduous forest, open pasture meadows and rocky coast with fine bathing opportunities. Fishing and nature studies along the shoreline are common features of an island day.

Activities

Hiking, cycling and riding Icelandic horses are the classic activities. Kayaking out towards the surrounding skerries and the Paradiset lagoon offers a unique water experience. Craft galleries, a sauna facility and a guest harbour with equipment for overnight stays make a longer visit possible. A heritage museum on the island gives insight into island life in the past.

Getting there

Waxholmsbolaget and the Cinderella boats offer regular services from Stockholm and Vaxholm to Ingmarsö, with stops at two jetties. Water taxi from Ljusterö is a complementary option. No car is needed — bicycles and walking shoes are enough to explore the islands.