Föglö can be explored from two perspectives when planning a trip: architectural history and routes by water. If you are looking for a hotel for your stay, you can first decide whether historic sites, a ferry trip or paddling routes should be your main focus. Historic farmsteads can be found in Degerby; for the waterways, ferry type, timetable and kayaking equipment are separate practical considerations.
Farmstead History and Church Architecture
Enigheten is a restored historic farmstead in Degerby on Föglö. Since the 18th century, it has served as a courthouse and inn. Degerby is also distinguished by its many old shipowners’ farmsteads; their wooden architecture has no equal elsewhere in Åland. For a cultural and historical perspective, two scales are represented side by side: the former function and restoration of a single farmstead, and a distinctive group of wooden buildings in the village. Those interested in architecture can consider the history of Enigheten and the shipowners’ farmsteads as different aspects of Degerby.
Föglö Church is dedicated to Mary Magdalene and dates back to the 14th century. The present church is the result of a major renovation carried out from 1859 to 1861, based on plans by architect Georg Theodor Policron Chiewitz, which were signed in 1857. Thus, its 14th-century origins and the major 19th-century renovation represent two distinct periods. Seasonal visiting arrangements apply; check them before your trip.
Museums and Other Cultural Sites
The Föglö Museum near the ferry terminal features an exhibition about Föglö’s history. Check the current opening arrangements before your visit. The Pilot Museum is located in the old pilot station, right next to Seagram. In the village of Brändö on Föglö, you’ll find the Nedergårds Farm Museum and Galleri Lillstugan. The location details help with orientation: the ferry terminal, Seagram and the village of Brändö are reference points for these sites.
Ferries, Boat Ramps and Paddling Routes
The car and passenger ferry from Svinö in Lumparland to Degerby on Föglö takes 30 minutes. Check the timetable for this route for your travel date. The Embarsundsfärjan is a small cable ferry between Finholma and Jyddö on Föglö. Föglö has three public boat slipways that can be used free of charge: next to the guest harbour in Degerby, in Embarsund and in Storgetösund in Hastersboda, next to the beach. Before a boat trip, it is advisable to confirm that the ramp you intend to use is currently accessible.
There are paddling routes around Föglö’s bays and sounds. You can bring your own kayak or rent one in Mariehamn; kayak rentals are not available on Föglö itself. Equipment is therefore part of planning your paddling routes. If you want to rent a kayak, check availability before your trip, as rental options may change.
Discover more destinations: Brändö, Kumlinge.
For the main travel overview: Åland Islands.
