Stockholm
on a shoestRiNg

Stockholm Walks (part 1): Kärsö

One of the things that makes Stockholm so different to many other European cities is how much it is surrounded by nature. Built around islands, we have already posted on exploring the archipelago and getting healthy outdoors.  Lately, the requests have been coming in to blog about more of the nature that Stockholm has to offer: in the form of walks and hikes in and around Stockholm.

So here is our first post (more will follow over the Autumn) about one of the great places to soak in the outdoors…less than 30 minutes outside of the city centre.

Kärsö is and island located to the west of the city centre – just before you reach Drottningholm Palace (the royal residence). Apart from the beauty of the nature in the forest and the surrounding lake Mälaren, this island has more on offer that you might first imagine…

For walkers: there is a 6km hiking trail around the island, and variations on that path through smaller forest trails that have been created over time.

 Fun for all the family: Why not try your hand at frisbee golf – Kärsö is set up with its own frisbee golf course! (Take your own frisbee).

For nature lovers: Take in the sites and smells of your natural surroundings. If you’re lucky, you might even catch site of a beaver (see photo evidence) aswell as the diverse birdlife and other creatures that inhabit the island.

For foodies: How about a spot of foraging? There is an abundance of blueberries, raspberries and the famous Swedish kantarell mushrooms can all be found here (provided someone doesn’t get there before you)!

Top tip: And don’t forget your insect repellent or prepare to be eaten alive during the summer months! ;)

Kärsö also has a retreat centre: Kärsögården, which is used by camps and groups throughout the year.

How to get there: Use the address for Kärsögården (the retreat centre) as it is the most reliable on google maps: Kärsögården, 178 93, Drottningholm

By public transport: Take the green line of the t-bana (underground) to Brommaplan. From Brommaplan, it is a 3 minute bus ride (301, 302, 305, 311, 336). See Stockholm Transport’s website (SL) for more information.
By car: There are carparks along the road that leads to Kärsögården which have 4 hours free parking – make sure you put your P-skiva in the window to state the time you arrived (this should come with your car rental).
Opening times: All year round – just make sure you have good walking shoes in the winter!

All photos © Stockholm On A Shoestring