Republic of Risön
Alingsås
Risön, Svensholmen, and Risöskär together form a roughly 200‑hectare nature reserve in Lake Mjörn. The reserve is known for its rich birdlife and large areas of mixed conifer forest that dominate the islands.
About the Nature Reserve
Risön and the surrounding islands are owned by the Municipality of Alingsås, and in 1996 the Risön Nature Reserve was established. The main island is about 23 hectares in size and is home to significant natural values, including the municipality’s only alder forest with old‑growth characteristics and special plant habitats such as heath milkwort and bell gentian.
You can explore the islands by boat, kayak, or canoe and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. While camping is not allowed everywhere, camping is permitted at a simple shelter on Little Risön (Svensholmen). Risöskär is a bird protection area where access is restricted from April 15 to August 15 to protect nesting birds.
The Republic
A quirky local tradition calls the islands the Republic of Risön, a community of organisations connected with Lake Mjörn that works for the well‑being of the area. The republic was proclaimed in 1894, and each summer a grand assembly is held at the deep harbour.
Getting There
The easiest way to reach Risön is by private boat, kayak, or canoe — but in summer you can also visit on certain days with the steamboat Herbert.