Åland

Öland is Sweden’s second-largest island, located in the Baltic Sea off the southeast coast and part of Kalmar County. It covers about 1,344 square kilometers and is connected to the mainland by the Öland Bridge, which opened in 1972. The island has a resident population of roughly 25,000 people, with notable towns including Borgholm in the north and Färjestaden in the south, along with local administration centered in Mörbylånga and Borgholm.

Geography and nature: Öland is relatively flat and is known for the alvar, a limestone pavement landscape that supports open, sparse grassland communities. Central Öland contains the Stora Alvaret, a distinctive habitat that is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its unique ecological and cultural value. The coastline features beaches and dunes, and the southern tip hosts the Ottenby nature reserve and bird observatory, a focal point for birdwatching.

History and culture: The island has been inhabited since prehistoric times, leaving traces such as Eketorp Fort on the eastern side and the ruins of Borgholm Castle overlooking the sea. The historic lighthouses include Långe Erik at the southeast cape. The landscape has long been shaped by grazing and farming, contributing to a recognizable rural character.

Economy and tourism: Agriculture and horticulture remain important, while tourism is a major economic sector. Öland attracts visitors with its historic sites, the alvar landscape, wildlife, and seasonal events such as Skördefest, the autumn harvest festival. Transportation to the island relies on the Öland Bridge and associated ferry connections.