Bomarsund Fortress

Mariehamn - Åland

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DESTINATIONS finland aland Do & See Bomarsund Fortress

Bomarsund Fortress

In 1832, Russia began construction of the fortress of Bomarsund. Since Åland then constituted the westernmost part of Czarist Russia and had a location of strategic importance, Russia desired a strong military presence and an impressive fortress there. During the Crimean War, in 1854, an Anglo-French naval force attacked the fortress, which resulted in the Battle of Bomarsund. The fortress was demolished and today only ruins (and the Bomarsund Museum) serve testament to Russian presence and the grandiose plans once wielded for Åland. If you wish to find out more about this part of the struggle between the great powers during the Crimean War, visit Bomarsund, and watch the film “Bomarsund, vägen till fred” ("the road to peace").

Do & See

There is a surprising variety of visitor pursuits in Åland, both on land and water. Water sports, such as kayaking, kite surfing and paddleboarding, are rather popular, and so are leisurely boat trips. For those interested in diving, Åland is a treasure trove of exciting diving sites containing the remains of eerie sunken ships. There are a few museums, too, and most attractions are designed to accommodate families with children.

Boat trips

The best way to enjoy Åland is by boat. You can either take a ride on a ferry or go on an unforgettable excursion during your stay here. Apart from simply enjoying the unspoiled nature, you might also catch a glance of a curious seal. There are various types of boats for rent. Would …

Kayaking

The Åland archipelago offers an infinite number of kayaking opportunities. Regardless of whether you are a beginner or veteran kayaker, there are suitable routes for you. The archipelago creates excellent conditions, whether you prefer the tranquil bays or rugged skerries near the open sea. Do you want to come close to nature and animal …

Paddleboarding

The Paddle Shack is an activity centre in Mariehamn. They have offered a varying range of sporting activities through the years, lately narrowing the scope of their services to paddleboard and kayak rentals, and offering kayaking courses. Their skilled instructors also organise a climbing school for groups. …

Wreck Diving

Åland offers world class wreck diving. More than 500 ships are known to have been wrecked due to the difficulties of navigating in the archipelago. The unique water climate contributes to preservation of old wood structures, and steel hulls corrode slowly. In the summer of 2010, a fascinating discovery was made in the Åland …

Kite Surfing

Åland has a shoreline numbering an incredible 17,000 km. Beaches lie in all directions. The mildness of the maritime climate and the contrast between calm bays and strong winds creating powerful waves outside the islands mean ideal kite surfing conditions. According to the local kite surfing professional, Patrik Larsson, Åland boasts at least 150 …

Golf

There are two fantastic golf courses on Åland: Åland Golfklubb and Eckerö Golf. Thanks to the favourable climate the season is long: from May to the end of October, some years even into December. Åland Golfklubb’s two well-known 18-hole courses are located in the beautiful historical settings of Sund, where the courses offer views …

Åland Museum & Art Museum

Åland Museum & Art Museum

The Åland Museum (history and ethnography) and Åland Konstmuseum (art museum) are both housed under the same roof. The permanent culture and history exhibition on display at the Åland Museum gives excellent insight into the history of the province. Art from Åland is displayed at the Konstmuseum, and there are always a few temporary …

Åland Maritime Museum

Åland Maritime Museum

The Mariehamn Maritime Museum (Ålands Sjöfartsmuseum) narrates the story of Åland's seafaring tradition via informative, family-friendly exhibits spread over three floors. The display contains historic artefacts like rare photographs and remaining parts of ships once in use. …

Wildlife Safari

Wildlife Safari

Get close to wildlife, and enjoy a great activity for the whole family. Get on the safari carriage on a guided tour, and see the symbol of the province of Åland, the red deer, known as the prototype of Disney’s Bambi. Fallow deer, wild boars, ostriches, and - since recently - lamas also live …

Kastelholm Castle

Kastelholm Castle

A well-restored castle ruin located in idyllic surroundings. The atmosphere at Kastelholm, a medieval castle, is magical. During the reign of Gustav Vasa Kastelholm became a royal castle. A visit provides excellent glimpse into the history of the islands and of the castle itself. …

Bomarsund Fortress

Bomarsund Fortress

In 1832, Russia began construction of the fortress of Bomarsund. Since Åland then constituted the westernmost part of Czarist Russia and had a location of strategic importance, Russia desired a strong military presence and an impressive fortress there. During the Crimean War, in 1854, an Anglo-French naval force attacked the fortress, which resulted in …

Horse Riding

For a more hands-on experience, do not limit yourself to simply watching horses compete at the Mariehamn trotting track. There are several establishments offering riding lessons, camps, and guided horseback riding tours. Ride slow or gallop in unspoiled countryside and along the beaches. The service is offered all year round. There a few places in …

Ålandstravet (Trotting Track)

Ålandstravet (Trotting Track)

Visit the Ålandstravet tortting track in Mariehamn. Catch the action at warm up and feel the excitement at the start of an exhilarating race. Trotting competitions are organised monthly from spring to autumn. In addition there is a large number of jumping, dressage, and Iceland horse competitions on …

Museum Ship

The museum ship Pommer (Museifartyget Pommern) is the world’s only four-masted freight sailing ship still in its original condition. It reminds onlookers of the time when an entire fleet of such ships was based in Mariehamn. Visit the Pommern in the Western …