Åland Islands
The Åland Islands, situated between Sweden and Finland, consist of more than 6,500 islands of varying sizes that form the southern boundary of the Gulf of Bothnia. The archipelago is one of the most popular holiday destinations along the entire Baltic coast. The Åland Islands were originally settled from Sweden and are also closer to the Swedish coast than to the Finnish coast. After centuries of dispute over their allegiance, the Åland Islands have officially belonged to Finland since 1921, but enjoy extensive autonomy and have Swedish as their official language. Of the 27,000 residents, around 11,000 live in the capital, Mariehamn; the rest are spread across 65 inhabited islands. Thanks to their special status within EU member Finland, duty-free shopping is possible on the Åland Islands. In addition to the euro, Swedish kronor are also accepted in many places.
Aktivurlaub auf den Åland-Inseln
Photo: © visitfinland.com
Places to see in the Åland Islands
The Åland Islands are a popular travel destination above all for their rocky skerries, which are usually red in color. The rocky islands are still rising out of the sea, at a rate of about seven millimeters per year. The temperate maritime climate brings the most hours of sunshine in May and June. The island capital, Mariehamn, describes itself as a small city. With its urban atmosphere, Mariehamn offers a chance to shop in a relaxed setting or visit one of its many restaurants, in contrast to the nature-focused islands. City bus rides in Mariehamn are free. The two harbors are the main attractions. While the large ferries to Sweden (Stockholm, Kapellskär or Grisslehamn) and Finland (Turku, Helsinki) dock at the western harbor (Västerhamn), the eastern harbor, ÅSS, is also open to visiting yachts. The museum ship “Pommern” is as popular with German holidaymakers—who rank third in number after Swedish and Finnish visitors—as the Maritime Museum in Mariehamn.
Holidays in the Åland Islands
The main island of Åland alone has numerous signposted hiking trails, many of which pass places of historical or cultural interest. The island’s terrain is very suitable for hiking. Its highest point is just 129 meters above sea level. Numerous swimming spots and campsites invite visitors to enjoy a relaxing Baltic holiday. The island of Kökar, in the southeast of the archipelago and accessible only by boat, is a paradise for birdwatchers. With their unique natural environment and attractions, hotels, holiday homes and campsites, the Åland Islands are an ideal destination for an active holiday on the Baltic coast between Finland and Sweden.
