The nine-kilometre Elfviksleden trail runs from Lidingö Centrum to Elfviks udde, passing through urban areas, parks, farmland, forests and archipelago scenery. Lidingö offers many different ways to discover nature: on a longer route, a loop near the centre or a stroll between historic sites.
Forest, Water and Trails
The Långängen–Elfvik nature reserve stretches from Mölna in the south of Lidingö to Södergarn and Elfviks udde in the north. Its landscape includes forests, lakes, stretches of coastline, grassland and farmland. Swimming areas, barbecue spots, wind shelters and fitness trails add to the area’s attractions. The landscape in the Sticklinge nature reserve also alternates between forest, coast and grassland; trails there also pass through forests rich in berries and mushrooms.
For a shorter nature experience, Kappsta offers an easy walking trail, a picnic area and sunny rocks with sea views. Kottlasjön is a kettle lake covering about 24 hectares, with a maximum depth of just over seven metres. Beavers, amphibians, birds, insects and bats live by the lake. These varied landscapes offer several possible ways to focus a trip to Lidingö, from waterfront views to forest trails.
Lidingö has more than 150 kilometres of fitness trails and paths that can be used on foot, by bike or on horseback. A specific loop near the centre is Hälsans stig: this six-kilometre paved trail has no steep climbs or stairs and is suitable for wheelchairs and walkers. Mountain bikers can choose a 5.5-kilometre trail in the Stockby/Långängen area and a varied 8.5-kilometre trail on Elfvikslandet.
Discover Culture Along the Way
The cultural walks on Lidingö take just under two hours at a normal pace. The Dalängen–Grönsta route includes a runestone, a burial ground, Sweden’s first allotment cottage settlement, a monument to the Lidingöloppet race and an aircraft hangar. On the Mölna–Gångsätra route, the trail passes through Mölna, the earliest place on Lidingö to be mentioned in writing, known for its extensive mill operations. The route also includes Skärsätra gård, where fruit wine was produced in the early 20th century, and a monument on the foundations of the summer home of Raoul Wallenberg’s grandparents.
Individual buildings also tell the story of the area: Lidingö Church was built in 1623 and is the oldest surviving building on the island. The Lidingö Museum has a permanent exhibition on Lidingö’s development from 8000 BC to the present day, and regularly hosts lectures, themed exhibitions and guided walks. Millesgården combines a large sculpture park, the home of artists Carl and Olga Milles, and a museum with changing exhibitions. Visitors can stroll through terraces adorned with sculptures and fountains and enjoy views of Stockholm Bay.
Farm Life and Time by the Water
On Elfvik, you can visit a working farm. There are sheep, horses and small animals, which graze on the land along Elfviksvägen in summer; walking trails run around the farm and along the water. At Långängens gård, you can have lunch in a historic setting. The bistro at Elfviks gård serves homemade soups, salads, open sandwiches and freshly baked fika treats. The farm shop sells cream cheese, salad cheese and cheesecake, and occasionally the farm’s own lamb sausage. It is best to check opening hours and what is on offer in advance.
Fågelöuddebadet has a long sandy beach, a diving tower, swings, a climbing frame, a barbecue area, a cafeteria and toilets. From Ropsten, take bus 204 to the Fågelöuddevägen stop, then walk for 10 to 15 minutes to reach the beach. At certain times, bus 211 goes directly to the car park. As bus services may change, it is advisable to check the current timetable. At Hustegaholm, private individuals, schools and clubs can rent canoes and kayaks; it is best to check availability before travelling.
Getting There and Other Destinations
From central Stockholm, take the red metro line to Ropsten, then continue on the Lidingöbanan. Alternatively, a commuter ferry departs from Nybrokajen. As you plan your journey, you can also decide which side of Lidingö interests you most: nature trails and waterfront, cultural walks or time at the beach.
Discover more destinations: Lidingö, Enhörna, Nacka, Boo, Danderyd, Vaxholm, Norrtälje, Sundbyberg.
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