Located in the southwest of Finland, Åland Islands is a richly diverse archipelago of 6700 named islands in the Baltic Sea. However, only 60 islands of this Swedish-speaking autonomous and demilitarized region have permanent residents. Moreover, a large majority of Åland’s 30,000 population lives in the capital city of Mariehamn, situated on Mainland Åland. Ferry tickets to Mariehamn from Turku, Kapellskär, Helsinki, Riga, Tallinn, and Stockholm are available using the Ferryscanner website. Since Mariehamn is Åland’s only town, it offers several opportunities to appreciate the local environment and partake in experiential adventures.

When vacationing in Mariehamn, one can’t but help witness the iconic seafaring heritage of Åland. A town once famous for shipbuilding, Mariehamn celebrates its nautical past with much zeal and elan. Besides the Maritime Quarter with the Boatbuilding Museum, the city is also home to the Pommern. The four-masted windjammer kept in immaculate condition is today an interactive museum that the entire family can enjoy visiting.

The municipality of Geta, about 40 minutes north of the capital, is a popular destination among nature lovers. Among several hiking trails here, Grottstigen is noteworthy for its scenic panoramas, cave walks, and the option to try bouldering.

On the other hand, the traditional fishing village of Käringsund on the island of Eckerö boasts a back-to-basic ambiance. Tourists come here to visit the old-world wooden boathouses, a Fishing Museum, and the beach and indulge in family-friendly land and water-based activities.

A part of Sweden since the 12th century, Åland came under Russian rule in 1714 and then the grand duchy of Finland in 1809. However, in 1917 when Åland wanted to join Sweden, Finland disapproved. Following the disagreement, the League of Nations intervened, resulting in Åland finally receiving autonomy under Finland in 1921. Consequently, the people of the Åland Islands still hold strong ties with Sweden, evident through their language, culture, and gastronomic practices.

For this reason alone, Åland is a dream come true for gourmands. Due to the importance given to local produce and time-honored recipes, the food in the region is fresh, rustic, and full of distinct flavors. Must-have dishes in Åland include fish, especially herring, and black bread, known for its tender, sweet, sour composition. Also, not to miss is the craft beer from Stallhagen, the local brewery, and partaking in Fika, the Swedish custom of having coffee with family and friends.

Åland’s away-from-the-world location, unmatched scenery, and welcoming citizens make it a remarkable holiday destination full of astonishments for all ages.