Hammarland brings together a range of reasons to visit: a natural coastline, a hiking trail about 77 kilometres long, and cultural themes from different periods. Öra offers time at the beach and views of Marsunds bron; the Sadelinleden trail provides a perspective on foot. There are also film connections in Skarpnåtö, the history of Åland’s first library, and historic sites with their own dates. If you are choosing a destination for nature, activity and culture, Hammarland offers several distinct themes.

Beach and hiking trail

Öra is a natural beach with red granite rocks where you can sunbathe, and views of Marsunds bron. This makes it a clear coastal option; the Sadelinleden offers a different kind of experience, focused on hiking.

The Sadelinleden is about 77 kilometres long and runs through the municipalities of Hammarland and Finström. You can walk the trail in shorter stages and in either direction. This lets you make two separate choices: the length of the section you select and the direction in which you walk it. The trail passes several villages and sights. There is a viewing tower on Klintbergen along the Sadelinleden. As the route is being developed in stages, check local information about current conditions before your hike.

Cultural history in different forms

Parts of the films “Stormskärs Maja” and “Iris” were shot in the picturesque surroundings of Skarpnåtö Hembygdsgård. The Hembygdsgård also has literature about Skarpnåtö. The two connections highlight different aspects: the films point to the area as a filming location, while the literature relates to the place in written works.

Thanks to P.U.F. Sadelin, the first library in Åland was established in Hammarland. S:ta Catharina kyrka is a stone church dating from the late 13th century. Sålis Batteriberg was fortified by Russia during the First World War. Sälskärs fyr was built in 1868 and was staffed until it was automated in 1948. The two dates for the lighthouse mark different periods: its construction in 1868 and its automation in 1948 frame the period when it was staffed. The church, the fortification and the lighthouse’s operating history thus represent different historical aspects.

Seasonal bicycle connection

The private bicycle ferry M/S Silvana operates during the summer peak season between Skarpnåtö in Hammarland and Lolo's Seaside Café in Snäckö in Geta. As the service is seasonal, the current operating period is part of your planning. Check the operating times and timetable in advance if you would like to include the ferry in your trip. For the ferry, the peak season is a key part of your timing; for the Sadelinleden, current trail conditions are the main consideration.

Discover more destinations: Lumparland, Geta, Gottby, Eckerö, Ödkarby, Finström, Lemland, Markusböle

Return to the main travel overview: Åland’s countryside.