Discover Åland's Beautiful Winter Landscapes
Celebrate the first Advent, welcome the New Year, or spend a winter holiday weekend in the Åland archipelago. For many, Åland is best known as a summer destination, but there are plenty of reasons to visit even during the low season.
Christmas Time in Åland
Lillajul celebration on the first Advent is an old and popular tradition that kicks off the holiday season. It’s celebrated with a Christmas tree, presents for the children and a Christmas buffet. Basically, it’s like Christmas but on a slightly smaller scale. However, the atmosphere is as joyful and peaceful as Christmas itself.
Lillajul also generally signals the start of the festive season, and when the traditional Christmas market is on at the Jan Karlsgården open-air museum, the Christmas spirit really begins to take hold. The whole of December then fills up with Christmas markets, concerts and buffets in restaurants. A visit to Åland in December is sure to spark your Christmas spirit.
Hiking in Early Winter
Thanks to the mild sea climate, autumn is often warmer and longer in Åland than on the mainland. Most years, the landscape stays snow-free until late autumn, with snow typically arriving no earlier than January. This makes hiking an ideal outdoor activity throughout the autumn. Did you know you can explore nearly 40 nature trails in Åland?
Wear waterproof outerwear and proper shoes, pack your bag with something to sit on and a warm drink, and set out on a hike through the beautiful archipelago. Have a picnic at a lookout or by the water and enjoy the tranquillity.
Unique Archipelago Experiences
When was the last time you saw a sky full of stars or could make out the Milky Way? With no snow and long winter nights, the Nordic darkness is incredibly deep. Light sources are few, especially in the countryside and outer archipelago, so the sight of a star-filled sky full of stars is nothing short of magical.
The sea is a central to life in Åland, and being close to it offers a calming effect, whether the wind is high and the waves are choppy, or the surface is still and glass-like. Wherever you are in Åland, head down to the water and take a moment to focus on it. It’s pure mindfulness!
If you're craving some time on the water, Åland offers fantastic angling year round. With a local fishing guide, you can enjoy the sea safely from a boat.
Life on the Ice
When the sea freezes, the archipelago transformes into a winter wonderland. You can explore the bays in a completely new way using long-distance ice skates and poles. There are regular excursions with experienced guides, and as long as you have the right instructions and safety equipment, you can safely traverse the ice.
Prefer an ice rink for some fun? The Islandia ice skating centre in Mariehamn offers free skating sessions, and the Olympic sport of curling is a popular group activity at the curling centre in Eckerö.
Ice-fishing is an enjoyable and exotic activity for many. It’s thrilling to drill a hole in the ice, jig for perch and pikeperch, or set up a fishing rod and wait for the little bell to ring, signalling that a pike has taken the bait.
Cross-Country and Downhill Skiing
If you love skiing, head to Åland’s Skiing and Biathlon Centre for some cross-country action. You can hire skis on-site, and when natural snow is scarce, artificial snow ensures you won't miss out. Åland’s golf courses also have ski trails running through them when the winter is cold enough.
For those who enjoy to slalom and snowboarding, the small but fun Germundö Alpin hill offers excellent winter fun. And, of course, children of all ages love to go sledding. In Mariehamn, there’s a delightful downhill track called Gnisten.
After hours in the crisp winter air, don't forget to enjoy a sauna, relax with wilderness bathing, or take a refreshing dip in a hole cut into the ice.
Popular Indoor Activities
Winter is also the perfect time for indoor activities. Head to the Bio Savoy cinema, have fun at disco bowling, or visit Mariehamn’s town library. You can enjoy a splash at the Mariebad bathhouse and swimming pools at Åland Sports Centre. Looking to keep active? There are gyms and classes ranging from yoga to CrossFit, catering to all preferences.
Spend some time at Åland's museums to learn more about the region's fascinating history. The Åland Maritime Museum, the Cultural History Museum of Åland and The Åland Island Art Museum all have generous opening hours during the winter season.
