Öland is the second largest island of Sweden where the vegetation is characterized by the flat landscape, small trees and shrubs. All of south of Öland, from the town of Färjestad to the southern point of the island is included in the UNESCO world heritage list. The island of Öland is located in the Baltic Sea but is connected to the mainland of Sweden by a 6 km long bridge. If you’re traveling from northern Sweden and you’re going to rent a cabin in the northern part of Öland, you can travel by the ferry from Oskarshamn to Byxelkrok on the northern part of the island instead of driving all the way down to the bridge.
Öland is the smallest province of Sweden, with an area of 1347 km2 and with a population of about 25000. That number increases significantly in the summer when all the tourist pay a visit to the island.
The island of Öland is known as “the sunny island”, because the sun often shines on Öland even if the weather is bad in the rest of the country. This is one of the reason to why so many wants to visit and rent a cabin on Öland, even the Swedish royal family owns a summer house on the island of Öland.
There’s far more things to do on Öland than just basking in the sun and swimming, many ancient monuments can be explored for both young and old, and if you’re interested in the culture of sweden and food traditions then you’re in the right place. Wherever you have chosen to rent your cabin, whether it’s by the ocean or inland, there’s many attractions and a lot to do, and you will have easy access to everything during you vacation on Öland. We at the cabin agency has listed a few attractions below.
The great Alvar (Stora Alvaret in Swedish) is the biggest of its kind in the world, located on the southern part of Öland is a designated world heritage site, this is a barren limestone terrace with a length of 40 km, (25miles) and 10 km, (6 miles) wide with a total area of 260 km (100 sq. miles). Here you can hike for miles and experience the total tranquility of the open wide terrain. Visit Ekeborgs fort and ancient castle stemming from the Iron Age. In Ottenby on the southern tip of Öland, you can watch rare birds at the well-known bird station, and right next to it is the very famous light house “Long legs”
From your cabin you can take a trip to Borgholm which is a popular summer resort with long sandy beaches, historical surroundings and sights. Eat at a restaurant or prepare food in your cabin for a picnic, to enjoy it in a nice park. Here you will find Borgholms castle, a medieval castle surrounded by a forest reminiscent of the Sherwood Forest from the adventures of Robin Hood. You can partake in events that train you to become a knight, or get guided tours and see exhibitions, the royal family of Sweden likes to visit these events.
If you brought your car to Öland then you can drive across this elongated island which is seated in the sparkling blue Baltic sea, with nothing but ocean as far as the eyes can reach- except on the west side then you’ll of course see sweden. Stop at nice places you come across along the way, discover and enjoy your vacation. Bring your fishing rod on your trip around the island in case you find a nice place where you can fish, swimwear is also recommended during sunny days.
During your vacation you can also visit the Swedish royal family’s summer home, Solliden, which is open to the public. Solliden is the kings’ private summer home, a luxurious castle like cottage built in the early 1900s, here you can also get guided tours and stroll around in the adjoining park.
A characteristic feature of the island of Ölands landscape are the protected wooden windmills recognized as a cultural heritage. The windmills, together with the Ölands stone (a type of limestone) have become famous outside of Sweden’s borders. The most beautiful windmills you’ll find in the area of Lerkaka.
The biggest city on Öland is Färjestad, you will reach this city as soon as you cross the bridge from the mainland of Sweden. The harbor of Färjestad is also called Ölands Riviera, here you can enjoy sunbathing and swimming or just take a stroll around town, look at all the boats, or maybe eat a nice meal at one of the city’s many restaurants
If you’re bringing your children with you on your cabin vacation on Öland, then a visit to Ölands animal and amusement park is a must. It’s the biggest animal combined amusement park in Sweden. Here you’ll find many exciting activities for the whole family, with many rides, a water park, attractions and animals from all around the world. If you bring your dog to the amusement park you have to keep it on a leash. A doggy daycare is also available on the site.
Fat Tuesday, or Fettisdagen, is a beloved Swedish tradition marked by indulgence and festivity. Central to this celebration are the iconic Semlor—delicious cream-filled almond buns enjoyed in homes and cabins across the country. With roots in Christian tradition, this day invites Swedes to feast before the fasting season of Lent. Discover the history of this delicious day, how it’s celebrated, and why Semlor are a must-try treat during your stay in Sweden.