Each of these themes has specific places to explore—from the history of Bomarsund and Kastelholm Castle to the observation tower on Getabergen and small producers.

History in different forms

At the Bomarsund Visitor Centre, the area’s history is presented through sound and images. Kastelholm Castle offers a different historical perspective: it was built as a defensive fortress at the end of the 14th century. Jan Karlsgården, an open-air museum, is also located in the Kastelholm area. These places offer different ways to explore the past: the history of a fortress area, the architectural history of a castle, and a museum under the open sky.

Jomala Church is another historical landmark. It is one of Finland’s oldest stone churches. In the broader context of Åland, its tower dates from the late 13th century.

Historical traces on Prästö

On Prästö, the Prästö walking trail takes in the Russian telegraph station and its accommodation building, Doniken. Both are among the few surviving Russian buildings in Åland. The cemeteries of Greek Orthodox, Muslim, Lutheran, Catholic and Jewish communities are another historical feature of Prästö. They are connected with the period when Bomarsund Fortress was built.

Prästö’s history thus encompasses both preserved buildings and cemeteries connected with the time when the fortress was built. This distinguishes it from the presentation of history through sound and images at the Bomarsund Visitor Centre and from Kastelholm’s medieval architectural history. Those especially interested in history will find a range of themes and forms of remembrance within the destination.

Views and landscapes in Geta

The observation tower on Getabergen in Geta offers a different kind of landscape experience. On a clear day, you can see a long way from the tower. The view depends on the weather: clear conditions are essential for seeing far into the distance. The tower adds a different perspective on Åland’s countryside to the historical sites, although each experience is planned in its own way.

Small producers and regional products

Åland’s countryside is home to several authentic small producers. What individual producers offer may vary: visitors can stroll among extensive apple orchards and buy famous apple juice, or visit a caramel workshop and sample handmade sweets. What individual producers offer may vary.

Here, the focus is not on architectural history but on products: a walk among apple trees, buying apple juice, or tasting handmade sweets. If local produce is of particular interest to you on your trip, these options offer a distinct focus alongside culture and landscapes.

Åland in a wider context

Some travel information applies to Åland as a whole. There are several ferry departures to Åland every day from Finland and Sweden. As timetables vary, check current departures with the ferry operators. The main-island section of the Åland Archipelago Trail runs from Prästö in Sund in the north to Lumparland in the south.

Other experiences are also part of the wider destination of Åland: near Godby, Stallhagen Brewery offers tours and beer tastings. This regional perspective complements the local themes of Åland’s countryside with another way to discover culture and products in Åland.

Discover more destinations: Finström, Lemland, Saltvik, Geta, Eckerö, Jomala, Lumparland, Lemland, Hammarland, Finström, Lumparland, Hammarland, Markusböle, Ödkarby, Geta, Eckerö, Gottby.

View the broader travel overview: Åland.