2 JULY 2026
Ljusterö — Island Guide
Ljusterö is one of the most accessible islands in the Mälaren archipelago and one of the largest in Österåker municipality. With car access via bridge, rich nature, a medieval church and an art hall with an international perspective, Ljusterö is a multifaceted destination — year-round.
An island with ancient roots
Ljusterö is first mentioned in writing in 1301 in the form Sydraliustra and is mentioned in Danish King Valdemar II's maritime list already in the 13th century. The island belongs to Österåkers municipality and is one of the larger islands in Stockholm's mid-archipelago. It is reached by car via a bridge from the mainland, which makes it unusually accessible among the archipelago islands.
Nature and outdoor life
Ljusterö offers a varied landscape with forests, cliffs, bays and open bathing areas. At the island's northeastern end stretches Östra Lagnö with a nature reserve of approximately 65 hectares. Here grow ancient oak trees — the largest estimated to be 350 years old — and along the coastlines orchids such as Adam & Eva bloom in early summer.
Klintsundet is a natural gathering point with a guest harbour, fuel, café and shop. The marina also offers kayak and jet ski rental for those who want to explore the archipelago nature from the water.
Culture — church and art hall
Ljusterö Church was built 1751–1755 and renovated in 1894 in a blend of Romanesque and Gothic style. The whitewashed octagonal wooden church lies by Kyrksjön in Mellansjö and houses art treasures worth a visit in themselves.
Right next to the church, at Tolvmansbacken 1, is Ljusterö Konsthall. The art hall exhibits Swedish and international art, crafts and photography related to archipelago life. Admission is free.
Getting to Ljusterö
Ljusterö is connected to the mainland by bridge and is reached by car from Åkersberga/E18. Waxholms boats call at the island in summer. A hostel and guest harbour are located at Gåsvik.
- Location: Österåkers municipality, Stockholm's mid-archipelago
- Church: Ljusterö Church, built 1751–55, renovated 1894
- Art hall: Free admission, Tolvmansbacken 1, Mellansjö
- Nature reserve: Östra Lagnö, approximately 65 hectares
- Summer programme: Ljusterö Konstrundan in August with 16 artist studios