Looking for the best islands near Borlänge? The lakes around this central Swedish town offer a surprising choice of quiet beaches, forested islets, historic villages and open water. From the extensive archipelago of Lake Runn to the larger cultural landscape of Sollerön in Lake Siljan, these island destinations are ideal for swimming, paddling, picnics and relaxed boat trips.
Why visit the islands near Borlänge?
Borlänge is surrounded by lakes rather than a traditional coastal archipelago. That does not make the scenery any less impressive. The waterways of Dalarna are dotted with islands, rocky outcrops and wooded shores where you can escape busy roads and find a peaceful place beside the water.
Many of the islands near Borlänge are uninhabited or have very limited facilities. This gives them a wild, local character. You might find a small jetty, a fire ring or a simple swimming area, but you should not expect shops, restaurants or regular public ferries at every destination. Planning is part of the experience.
The best time to explore is from late May until early September. Summer brings long daylight hours, warm water and calm conditions for kayaking. Early autumn adds colourful forests and quieter paths. In winter, the same lakes can become popular with skaters and walkers when the ice is safe, although winter island visits require specialist local advice and careful preparation.
The best islands near Borlänge at a glance
- Lake Runn islands: The closest choice for paddling, swimming and flexible island hopping from Borlänge and Falun.
- Ösjön islands: A quieter part of the Runn lake system with forested shores and a more secluded atmosphere.
- Sollerön: The best larger island for combining nature, local history, cycling and a full day trip.
- Smaller islands in Lake Siljan: A good option for private boat trips, kayaking and views across one of Dalarna’s most beautiful lakes.
- Dalälven’s river islands: Small green islands near the Borlänge area for scenery, birdwatching and short waterside outings.
1. The islands of Lake Runn
Lake Runn is the most convenient place to begin if you want to explore the best islands near Borlänge. The lake lies between Borlänge and Falun and is known for its large network of islands, bays and narrow passages. Together, the lake and its surrounding waterways create one of the most accessible inland archipelagos in Dalarna.
The character of the islands varies. Some are heavily forested, with pine trees reaching down towards the water. Others have smooth rocks and small open areas that are perfect for a picnic. A few have simple landing places where paddlers can stop for lunch or a swim. Because the islands are spread across a large lake, you can often find a peaceful spot even during the busiest weeks of July.
How to explore Lake Runn
Kayaking and canoeing are the most practical ways to see several islands in one day. A small craft allows you to move between sheltered bays and narrow channels at your own pace. Beginners should stay close to the shore and choose a calm day, while experienced paddlers can plan a longer route across the open water.
Boat trips are another enjoyable option. If you have access to a motorboat, you can create your own island hopping itinerary, stopping for swimming and coffee along the way. Local boat rental and activity providers may also offer equipment hire or guided outings, although availability changes by season. Check in advance, especially during the July holiday period.
Several access points around Lake Runn are reached by car or bicycle from Borlänge and Falun. Facilities differ between locations, so bring drinking water, food, a rubbish bag and anything else you need for the day. A waterproof map or navigation app is useful because the shoreline can look similar in several places.
Best activities on the Runn islands
- Swim from a quiet rock or natural shoreline.
- Pack a traditional Swedish fika with coffee, fruit and cinnamon buns.
- Paddle through sheltered channels between the islands.
- Take photographs of the changing light over the water.
- Look for water birds and other wildlife without disturbing nesting areas.
- Enjoy a sunset picnic, provided you can return safely before dark.
2. The islands of Ösjön
Ösjön is connected to the wider Lake Runn water system and offers a slightly more secluded experience. The lake lies to the east of Borlänge and is surrounded by woodland, rural roads and small settlements. Its islands are a good choice if you want the feeling of being away from town without travelling far.
The landscape here is typically calm and wooded. Instead of dramatic cliffs, expect low shores, pine forest and quiet coves. This makes the area particularly suitable for families and less experienced paddlers. On a warm summer day, you can combine a short kayak tour with swimming, a picnic and a walk along the mainland shore.
Access depends on the island and the season. Some are easiest to reach with a canoe or kayak, while others are best viewed from a private boat. Do not assume that every visible island is open for camping or that every landing place is public. Swedish right of public access gives visitors considerable freedom in nature, but it also requires respect for private homes, cultivated land, wildlife and local restrictions.
Who should choose Ösjön?
Ösjön is especially suitable for visitors who prefer a quiet day on the water rather than a busy attraction. It is also a good alternative when popular swimming areas around the larger lakes are crowded. Families should check weather forecasts and wind direction before setting out, as even a relatively short crossing can become uncomfortable in choppy conditions.
If you are cycling in the Borlänge countryside, Ösjön can fit naturally into a longer day out. Combine a ride with a lakeside lunch, then finish with a swim or an evening walk. Bring lights if you are returning late, since rural roads can be dark even during the long summer season.
3. Sollerön in Lake Siljan
Sollerön is one of the best islands near Borlänge for a complete day trip. Located in Lake Siljan, roughly an hour’s drive from Borlänge depending on your starting point and route, it is much larger and more developed than the small islands of Runn and Ösjön. A bridge connects Sollerön to the mainland, so you can visit without a boat.
The island combines forest, farmland, beaches and a strong sense of local history. Its name is often linked to the old Norse sun god, and archaeological finds show that people have lived here for many centuries. The island is known for Viking Age burial sites, traditional farm buildings and a cultural landscape that feels distinct from the larger towns of Dalarna.
Things to do on Sollerön
- Visit the Sollerön Viking Museum to learn about the island’s archaeological history.
- Explore local roads and paths by bicycle.
- Walk through woodland and open farmland near the villages.
- Swim at a designated beach or find a quieter place beside the lake.
- Look for traditional red cottages and historic farm environments.
- Use Sollerön as a base for exploring Lake Siljan and nearby Mora.
Sollerön is not primarily an island hopping destination. It is better suited to travellers who want a mixture of outdoor activities and cultural sightseeing. You can spend the morning visiting the museum or cycling, enjoy lunch locally, then finish the afternoon by the water. The elevated parts of the island also provide attractive views across Siljan, particularly in clear weather.
Practical tips for visiting Sollerön
Because Sollerön is connected by road, it is one of the easiest islands to visit with children, bicycles or a rental car. Still, it is worth checking opening hours before visiting museums and seasonal attractions. Services may be limited outside the summer months.
Accommodation ranges from campsites and cabins to guesthouses and holiday homes. Staying overnight allows you to experience the island when day visitors have left. It also gives you more time to explore nearby destinations such as Mora, Gesunda and the villages around Lake Siljan.
4. Smaller islands and skerries in Lake Siljan
Lake Siljan is best known for its wide blue waters and mountain views, but it also contains smaller islands and rocky islets. These are among the best islands near Borlänge for visitors who already plan to explore the Siljan region and want to add time on the water.
The scale of the lake is different from Runn. Siljan feels more open, and weather can change quickly across the broad surface. A calm morning may be followed by stronger winds later in the day. For this reason, kayaking routes should be planned conservatively, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the lake.
Private boat trips can be an excellent way to explore the islands without committing to a long paddle. Local marinas and tourism providers around Siljan may have boats, canoes or guided experiences for hire. Ask about current conditions, permitted landing places and safety equipment before leaving the shore.
When visiting a small island, keep your impact low. Avoid lighting fires unless there is a clearly established fire site and local conditions allow it. Take all rubbish with you, keep dogs under control and leave natural features, plants and historical remains undisturbed.
5. River islands along the Dalälven
The Dalälven passes through the Borlänge area and creates a different kind of island landscape. River islands are generally smaller and more influenced by currents, vegetation and changing water levels than the islands in Runn or Siljan. They are not always suitable for landing, but they add variety to riverside walks, canoe routes and nature photography.
Near Borlänge, the river landscape is closely connected with local industry, woodland and settlement. Some sections are managed for recreation, while others are important habitats for birds and fish. If you are paddling, follow local guidance around currents, weirs and restricted areas. Do not approach water structures unless a marked route specifically allows it.
These river islands are best viewed as part of a wider outdoor day rather than as standalone tourist attractions. Walk along accessible river paths, bring binoculars and look for quiet bends where birds gather. In spring and early summer, keep a respectful distance from nesting birds and avoid entering areas marked for conservation.
Planning boat trips from Borlänge
Boat trips are one of the most memorable ways to experience the islands around Borlänge, but the right type of trip depends on the lake and your experience. A canoe or kayak is ideal for sheltered water and short crossings. A motorboat is more practical for covering longer distances or carrying picnic equipment. A guided tour is the safest choice if you are unfamiliar with navigation or local conditions.
What to bring
- A properly fitted life jacket for every passenger.
- A waterproof phone case, map and backup means of communication.
- Drinking water and food, since island facilities are limited.
- Sun protection, warm layers and rainwear.
- Dry clothes stored in a waterproof bag.
- A rubbish bag for carrying everything back to shore.
- Basic first aid supplies and any personal medication.
Always check the forecast before departure. Wind direction matters more than temperature, and open lake conditions can become difficult surprisingly quickly. Tell someone on shore where you are going, especially if you are travelling alone. If you rent equipment, ask the provider about local hazards, recommended routes and emergency procedures.
When to visit the islands near Borlänge
June, July and August offer the best conditions for swimming and boating. July is the busiest month, but the long daylight makes it easy to start early or stay out late. June often brings bright evenings and fresh green vegetation, while August can be calmer and more peaceful after the main holiday period.
September is a rewarding month for walking and photography. The water may be too cool for swimming, but the forests begin to turn golden and the shorelines are quieter. Spring is beautiful but can be chilly, with cold water and changeable weather. Winter visits should only be made when ice conditions have been assessed by experienced local users.
Respecting nature and local communities
The freedom to enjoy Swedish countryside comes with responsibility. Follow the principles of allemansrätten, or the right of public access, by avoiding damage and giving priority to people who live and work in the area. Keep noise low near homes, do not cross gardens or planted fields and leave gates as you found them.
Use marked car parks and launch points whenever possible. Fires should only be made where permitted, and you should never light one during a fire ban. Toilets may not be available on smaller islands, so plan ahead and follow local sanitation guidance. Most importantly, leave each island as you found it so that future visitors can enjoy the same quiet landscape.
Choosing the right island experience
For easy access and flexible paddling, start with the Lake Runn archipelago. For a quieter outing close to Borlänge, explore the waterways and islands of Ösjön. Choose Sollerön if you want history, cycling and services alongside lake scenery. If you are already travelling around Siljan, a private or guided boat trip can reveal smaller islands that are difficult to reach from land.
Whatever you choose, the islands near Borlänge offer a gentle way to experience Dalarna’s lakes. Pack a picnic, allow more time than you think you need and let the weather guide your pace. The most rewarding island days are often the simplest ones, with a quiet landing place, warm coffee and uninterrupted views across the water.