Västerås - Björnön till Ridön

Experience Mälaren's archipelago on a fan-friendly paddling trip between Björnön and Ridön.

This is a paddling trip for those with previous experience and who are comfortable moving among boat traffic and out on open water. The route is categorized as RED (demanding), but of course the level of difficulty depends on the prevailing weather conditions. In particular, wind and low temperatures are risk factors to consider.

If you start and end the trip at the launch site at Björnögården and paddle around the entire Ridön, the trip is just over 30 km long and is therefore suitable as a reasonable two-day trip. Of course, it is possible to extend the trip and also visit some of Ridön's neighboring islands.

For those who accept the challenge, the reward is great. Ridön is one of the largest islands in the Västerås archipelago, and is a real idyll. Here you are met by several hiking trails, cultural trails and small dirt roads that wind between red cottages and pastures with grazing cows and sheep. A treasure for those who want to experience a varied animal, bird and plant life.

You can spend the night in nature in shelters or tents. There are plenty of jetties around the island, but also beach huts for those who want to find their own place. A recommended place to spend the night is at the jetty in Kurösundet. There is a barbecue area, a small windbreak and toilet. Another favorite is the shelter at Lybeck's stone. During the summer there are also hostels and cottages to rent on the island. You should of course bring your own food and coffee, but during the summer there is also the possibility of gofika at Café Magasinet.

If you need to rent a canoe for your adventure, or buy a map, you can do so via Aktivt Uteliv på Björnögården. Aktivt Uteliv also offers canoeing courses and guided day trips.

You can read more about what you can experience and do on Ridön on Ridöföreningens website.