Öland: From Swedish royalty to nature's majesty

For over a century, Öland has been a favoured summer destination for the Swedish royals, and once you set foot on this enchanting island, it's easy to see why. Accessible and welcoming, Öland's natural beauty greets you at every turn, from the vast fields in the southwest to the lush forests at its heart and the rugged cliffs along the 'Stenkusten' coastline.

Linked to the mainland by the Öland Bridge, the island stretches just 137 kilometres from north to south and is a mere 16 kilometres wide at its broadest point. Öland's uniqueness stems from its bedrock of exposed limestone, which has moulded its distinct landscapes. This geological feature has led to the creation of expansive open heaths known as 'alvars,' with the largest among them being the 'Stora Alvaret' (the Great Alvar), recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000.

Öland's diverse attractions cater to a wide range of visitors. Nature enthusiasts flock to its 90 nature reserves, teeming with island-specific fauna and abundant birdlife. Windsurfers and kite surfers revel in the constant breeze while hikers and cyclists explore Öland's extensive trail network, including beautiful Horns Kustväg and the famous Öland Trail (Ölandsleden) that covers nearly the entire island. History enthusiasts can immerse themselves in ancient ruins, rune stones, and the iconic windmills that dot the landscape.

With 300 kilometres of coastline featuring some of Sweden's finest beaches and a reputation for exceptional local cuisine, visiting Öland promises unforgettable experiences and memories.

Soak in Öland’s World Heritage landscape

As you journey southward, the scenery transitions to quaint villages, stone walls, and expansive 'alvars', defining the agricultural landscape of southern Öland. Encompassing a quarter of the island's area, 'Stora Alvaret' is an excellent launchpad for hiking adventures. The island offers more than 140 kilometres of hiking trails. Mörbylånga Trail designated one of Sweden's signature trails by the Swedish Tourist Association (STF), traverses the heritage site.

In the far south, at Degerhamn, stands 'Långe Jan', Sweden's tallest lighthouse and a top attraction in Öland. Dating back to 1785, the views from its summit justify the 197-step climb. Visiting here could fill your day with exploration, including the nearby Ottenby Nature Reserve and Bird Observatory, renowned since 1946 for its 140 bird species.

Heading towards the island's northern tip, more stunning natural landscapes await. Cliffs drop dramatically to the sea along the coastal road, enjoy the vast sandy beach of Böda Sand or explore the picturesque village of Byxelkrok.

You'll find ample dining options in the island's northern part. Kalk in Löttorp is renowned for gourmet burgers and lively entertainment, while Kaffestugan in Böda offers a cosy setting for a traditional Swedish 'fika'.

Explore the history and beauty of the town of Borgholm

First-timers have a few must-sees, starting with the main town of Borgholm, one of Sweden’s historic towns. Borgholm has buildings and preserved architecture from the early 1800s. A 30-minute walk from the town, you will find the Borgholm Castle (Borgholm Slott), often dubbed “the most beautiful castle ruins of Scandinavia”. Give yourself plenty of time to savour what remains of this baroque castle with a history dating back to the 13th century.

A 10-minute walk from Borgholms Slott, the royal residence of Solliden Palace is found. Solliden has been the Swedish Royal Family’s summer paradise for generations since its construction in 1906. They don’t keep it for themselves, though, and you can visit from May to September. Walk around the beautiful Italian and English gardens and treat yourself to a ‘fika’, or something more substantial, at the palace’s café and restaurant, Kaffetorpet.

Discover Öland's cultural heritage

To learn more about the island's history, visit the Himmelsberga Museum, a village preserved as an open-air museum. The heart of Himmelsberga consists of several large farms with buildings that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries.

At the VIDA Museum & Art gallery, nine kilometres south of Borgholm, you’ll find culture of a more modern kind. The gallery has two wings devoted to the work of much-loved artists and sculptors Ulrica Hydman-Vallien and Bertil Vallien, perhaps best known for the colourful glass vases and ornaments that made Kosta glassworks known to many.

Öland's centuries-old artistic tradition attracts creatives to its distinctive light and peaceful atmosphere. The island fosters year-round creativity with open studios, artist collectives, and cultural associations, offering established art programs at Capellagården and Ölands Folkhögskola. In spring, Konstlandskapet, one of Sweden's most extensive art tours, unfolds on the island.

Öland foodie – sampling the local delights

Öland boasts a diverse food scene where the producers have fully embraced the trend with locally sourced food. Farm shops offer various options, including dry-aged meats, artisanal cheeses, fresh eggs, seasonal vegetables, aromatic herbs, and flavorful fruits.

For a truly local experience, don't miss Öland's speciality dish, "kroppkaka". These potato-based dumplings are filled with baked pork and onions and served with lingonberries for a burst of flavour. Many establishments on the island offer this delicacy, with Ninnis Kroppkaksbod renowned as one of the best places to indulge.

Fancy a traditional Swedish "fika" experience? Swing by Mormors Stenugnsbageri och Kaffestuga in Stora Rör, where the cinnamon buns are nothing short of extraordinary. Or visit Fredriks Bröd & Bakverk in Färjestaden for high-quality pastries.

If you are a seafood enthusiast, visiting Kårehamns Fisk & Havskök is a must. Located in the fishing village of Kårehamn, this restaurant offers an array of delicacies sourced fresh from the sea or carefully prepared on-site.

Finding beverages to complement your meal is not difficult, with microbreweries and wineries cultivating grapes for wine production scattered around the island.