Things to Do on Öland – Starting from Allégården
Öland has so much to offer from the end of May to September. July is the peak season with many visitors. Cafés, concerts, galleries, artisans and restaurants are all open in July. The sea is a little warmer and it can be refreshing to go to a beach.
However, after the peek season is over the open landscapes, tranquil nature and the remnants of the history with fortresses are there throughout the year – from the budding Alvar in spring and the harvest season in autumn to the peaceful pastures at the Alvar of winter and frosty and clear horizons. No matter when you visit, there is always something to discover.
Spring – the blooming season
Spring on Öland is a time of light and life. Stora Alvaret awakens with unique orchids, birdlife attracts visitors from near and far, especially at Ottenby where thousands of migratory birds pass and the landscape is filled with color and activities. It is the season when the island shows itself from its most gentle and magnificent side – perfect for hiking, nature experiences and new encounters.
Discover the local – From Easter onwards, many galleries, farm shops and cafes open for the season and offer a more leisurely pace than in summer.
Spring highlights
Easter celebrations, the Ascension of Christ, Öland Spirar and open studios under the Öland Art Landscape are some of the biggest and most popular celebrations and events of spring!
Please note this:
Dress in layers – The weather can change quickly between sun, rain and cool winds.
Good shoes on your feet – If you want to hike, the choice of footwear is extra important. In the spring, The great plain “Stora Alvaret” can be quite wet, especially after rain or snowmelt.
Bring a picnic – It can be sparse between restaurants
Summer – The Island of Sun and Wind
Öland is known as the “Island of the sun and the wind”, which refers to the sunny climate and the often fresh wind. Summer on Öland is full of light and contrasts. Sunny days, flowering meadows and fields. Long, bright and warm evenings create a vibrant atmosphere where swimming, cycling and excursions coexist with culture, food and music. It is the time when the island is buzzing with life – but where there is always room for both activities and quiet moments in nature.
But remember – What is the Right of Public Access?
The Right of Public Access is a principle, protected by the law, that gives all people in Sweden the freedom to roam free in nature. Sleep on mountaintops, by the lakes, in quiet forests or beautiful meadows. Take the kayak out for a spin or experience the wildlife firsthand. Pick berries, mushrooms and flowers from the ground – all completely free of charge. The only thing you have to pay, is respect for nature and the animals living there. However, this is not applicable in Natural resorts and you are never allowed to pick fossil in stones and please close the gate behind you when you walk and stick to the paths in sensitive areas.
Excursion tips
Summer is ideal for biking, Öland with its flat landscape, many cycle paths and beautiful views along the way. Also take the opportunity to visit all of Öland’s farm shops and cafes – Taste local produce, Öland strawberries and discover Öland’s handicrafts. See more at oland.se
In Kastlösa there are many local craftsmen and artists to visit. Food artisans Kalm Taste of Öland, Artisanal Candle producer Stickobrinn, Kastlösa Glashytta (artisanal glassfactory) and Annelis clothing boutique and more. All are within walking distance of Allégården Kastlösa.
Tips for visiting Öland in the summer
Be there early – Attractions and roads can be busy in the middle of the day. Mornings and late evenings are quieter and often the most beautiful. Accommodation can be harder to find.
Be aware of the wind – It can be brisk even on sunny days. A light jacket or sweater is a good idea, especially in the evenings.
Protect yourself from the sun – The sun is strong on Öland. A cap, sunscreen and avoiding the sun in the middle of the day are recommended.
Autumn – The Golden Season
Autumn on Öland is peaceful, warm and colourful. Don’t miss September on Öland. The often warm days and high clear air. The landscape changes to gold, rust and deep green as harvest time begins and the sun is lower in the sky. The island becomes calmer and the pace slower – perfect for recovery, hiking and enjoying the peace of nature. Birdlife remains rich, especially during the autumn migration at Ottenby, where thousands of birds pass on their way south.
Autumn highlights
Ölands Skördefesten, our own garden fair – Ölands Trädgårdsmässa, the autumn peak of birdwatching at Ottenby and cozy markets around the island are some of the popular autumn excursion destinations.
During Ölands Skördefesten there is the possibility of using Allegården Kastlösa as a starting point.
Tips for visiting Öland in autumn
Dress for the weather – Autumn can offer both sunny days and cooler winds and rainy days.
Bring a warm sweater or jacket – the evenings get cool quickly.
Good shoes on your feet – Perfect for long walks along the coast and trails, but the ground can be damp after rain.
– Autumn can offer both sunny days and cooler winds.
Winter – the quiet season
Winter on Öland is quiet, beautiful and almost magical. The open landscape and frost-covered fields create a peaceful atmosphere that invites reflection and recovery. When the sea is steaming with cold and the sun colors the horizon pink and orange, the island shows its most dramatic and stripped-down side. It is the perfect time for leisurely walks, skating on the Alvar, barbecues or cozy moments indoors with board games.
Short days
In the winter especially in December and January the days are short and the sun is only above the horizon for 6 hours.
At Allégården there are also barbecues at the service building that can be used by our guests.
Tips for Visiting Öland in Winter
Dress warmly and windproof – The winds from the sea can be freezing cold.
Spikes or anti-slip – During cold periods, roads and paths can become slippery.
Plan ahead – Some businesses have limited opening hours during the winter. – The days are short but the light is often magical.
