Fjäderholmarna
Stockholms län
Fjäderholmarna is an archipelago consisting of several islands including Stora Fjäderholmen, Ängsholmen, Libertas, and Rövarns holme, located about one kilometer east of Djurgården in Stockholm. It is part of Lidingö Municipality and forms the easternmost outpost of the Royal National City Park since 1995. The islands can be reached by regular boat services from Nybrokajen, Slussen, Ropsten, and Nacka Strand, with a roughly 20-minute boat ride from Nybrokajen. Historically, Fjäderholmarna was first mentioned in 1381 in connection with land purchases by Bo Johnsson Grip. Over the centuries, the islands were owned by notable families such as the Banérs until around 1775. The islands were not primarily valuable for agriculture but were important for fishing and bird hunting, which likely influenced their name, derived from early references to "fjärden" (bay) and later as "fjäder" (feather), reflecting the collection of bird feathers and eggs. The main island, Stora Fjäderholmen, has had settlements and a tavern historically serving fishermen and travelers, with documented habitation dating back to the 18th century. Today, Fjäderholmarna is cherished for its natural environment, cultural heritage, and accessibility as a recreational destination within Stockholm's archipelago.
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Tip: The best time to visit Fjäderholmarna is during the late spring to early autumn months when boat services operate regularly and the weather is favorable for outdoor activities. It is recommended to book boat tickets in advance during weekends and holiday seasons to ensure availability. Visitors can explore the islands on foot, enjoy local eateries, and experience the natural surroundings. Discounts may be available for groups or families, so checking with the boat operators or local tourism offices is advisable. As the islands are part of a national park, visitors should respect natural habitats and follow park guidelines.
Interesting facts
- •Fjäderholmarna is the easternmost outpost of the Royal National City Park since 1995.
- •The island group was first mentioned in written records in 1381 linked to Bo Johnsson Grip’s land acquisitions.
- •Rövarns holme is an artificial island created in 1910 using rock from the Saltsjöbanan railway construction.
- •Historically, the islands were important for bird hunting and collecting feathers and eggs, which influenced their name.
- •A tavern on Fjäderholmarna was the last in a chain of inns used by fishermen delivering fish to Stockholm in the 18th century.
History
Fjäderholmarna was first recorded in 1381 when Bo Johnsson Grip purchased parts of Lidingö and the islands.
Ownership passed to the Banér family in the 15th century, who held the islands until about 1775.
Historically, the islands were used mainly for fishing and bird hunting rather than agriculture, as the land was considered poor for farming or grazing.
In the 18th century, a tavern operated on the islands serving fishermen traveling to Stockholm.
The island group’s name evolved over time, originally referring to their location in the bay and later associated with feathers, reflecting their use for collecting bird feathers and eggs.
The artificial island Rövarns holme was created in 1910 during construction works nearby.
Place Guide
Stora Fjäderholmen
The largest island in the archipelago, historically inhabited and featuring remnants of old settlements and gardens. It serves as the main hub for visitors with amenities and walking paths.
Ängsholmen
Originally two islands called Irland (Lillholmen) and Skottland (Storholmen), joined by land uplift and infill in the late 19th century. It is part of the natural landscape of the archipelago.
Libertas (Gröna Jägaren)
One of the main islands in the group, known by two names historically, serving as part of the archipelago’s natural environment.
Rövarns holme1910
An artificial island created in 1910 from rock debris from the Saltsjöbanan railway construction, adding to the archipelago’s geography.
