Finland is home to an archipelago, called the Åland Islands, rich in history, stunning landscapes and incredible culture.
Located at the entrance of the Gulf of Bothnia in the Baltic Sea, the Åland archipelago counts more than 6,700 islands.
The smallest region of Finland by both area and population, the archipelago counts the majority of its 30,100 residents on Fasta Åland.
Of the other islands, only a few dozen are inhabited, while the others are mostly skerries and small islands.
Due to its history, the archipelago is largely autonomous from the central Finnish Government and has been demilitarized since the mid-1850s. As a consequence, residents in Åland are exempt from conscription to the Finnish Defence Forces.
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Moreover, the only official language of the archipelago is Swedish, despite being part of Finland. This peculiarity is linked to the historical ties Åland has to Sweden as well as their cultural identity, distinct from the rest of Finland.
Life on these islands appears idyllic, with the tourist board’s website of the archipelago declaring locals “happiest people in the Nordic countries”.
As if this wasn’t enough, Finland was named in the World Happiness Report 2023, for the sixth year in a row, the happiest country in the world.
Surrounded by sea in all directions, Åland is a stunning destination for those who love outdoor activities.
Excursions to cultural and historical attractions are a must for tourists heading to the archipelago.
Among the must-see sites is the Bomarsund fortress area, a massive fortress Russia started to build in the 1830s when its territory included Finland. The half-built fortress was bombed during the Crimean War in 1854, but some of its massive structures continue to stand.
To better understand the history of the islands and their deep links to the sea, visitors can also head to the maritime museum and the Pommern – an iron-hulled sailing ship used during World War II that was later turned into a museum.
Lovers of fresh sea air and nature should instead head to the old fishing village of Käringsund, where classic boathouses can be admired.
More adventurous tourists can tackle the hiking trails Grottstigen in Geta. While the stones can get wet and slippery, which makes the path complex to undertake, these trails reward holidaymakers with stunning views of unique rock formations and the sea.
Finally, the pride felt on the Åland Islands for local products makes traditional food particularly delightful to tourists.