Attractions and Places To See around Sottunga - Top 17
Best attractions and places to see around Sottunga include a variety of sites reflecting the region's island life and historical connections. Sottunga, an island municipality in Åland, is characterized by its archipelago landscape and maritime environment. The area provides opportunities to explore historical sites and observe the network of ferry routes connecting the islands. Visitors can experience the unique cultural and natural features of this part of the Åland archipelago.
Best attractions and places to see around Sottunga
- The most popular attractions is St. Matthias Chapel (Vårdö), a religious building with a history dating back to the Middle Ages. Located on the old post road, its unique architecture includes a narrow tower with a disproportionately large ceiling.
- Another must-see spot is Överö Ferry Terminal, a key facility for island transport. This terminal is part of the Southern Line ferry route, connecting various islands including Sottunga and Kökar.
- Visitors also love Kökar Ferry Terminal, a facility providing access to the island of Kökar. Kökar is known for its history of seal hunting and fishing, and was home to a Franciscan monastery in the Middle Ages.
- Sottunga is known for its ferry terminals, historical sites, and facilities that support island exploration. The region offers a mix of cultural landmarks and practical points of interest for travelers navigating the archipelago.
- The attractions around Sottunga are appreciated by the komoot community, with 14 upvotes and 7 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Kökar Ferry Terminal
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It has 223 inhabitants, of whom about 95 percent are Swedish-speaking, and an area of 63.94 square kilometers, of which 0.39 square kilometers are inland waters. As in all of Åland, Swedish is the official language. In the far south of the Åland Islands lies the Kökar archipelago, which consists of a larger island surrounded by thousands of smaller islands. The main island has about 250 inhabitants and has been inhabited for about 3000 years. The first inhabitants were probably seal hunters. Kökar's waters have always been rich in fish and where there are fish, there are seals. For hundreds of years, fishing has been the most important industry. Locals sailed to the fish markets in Stockholm and Turku to sell their catch and exchange it for needed goods. People here have always been self-sufficient.
Kökar is also known for the Franciscan monastery that stood here in the Middle Ages. Today, Franciscan Days are held every year in July to celebrate the saint.
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Located on the FERRY Södra Line | Southern Line | Southern Line
GALTBY ▸ KÖKAR ▸ KYRKOGÅRDSÖ ▸ HUSÖ ▸ SOTTUNGA ▸ FÖGLÖ (ÖVERÖ) ▸ LÅNGNÄS
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Snäckö Ferry Terminal
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The ferry to Seglinge also leaves from here, duration 7 minutes. It runs as needed, there are certain breaks in the timetable.
Tip: Worthwhile excursion destinations in Kumlinge are the Kumlinge church with medieval wall paintings, the local pharmacy and the Hermas farm in Enklinge. If you are looking for an exciting archipelago adventure, you should rent a tour boat with a guide. Otherwise, you can enjoy the view from the old Bärö maritime surveillance station, take the cable ferry to Seglinge or continue your archipelago trip from Snäckö towards the south.
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Överö Ferry Terminal
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GALTBY ▸ KÖKAR ▸ KYRKOGÅRDSÖ ▸ HUSÖ ▸ SOTTUNGA ▸ FÖGLÖ (ÖVERÖ) ▸ LÅNGNÄS
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St. Matthias Chapel (Vårdö)
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Kumlinge Cottages & Marina
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Popular around Sottunga
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Snackö is the southern ferry port and access to Kumlinge. From the southern port of Kumlingen (Snäckö) take the ferry m/s Ejdern 1-2 times a day to the port of Långnäs in the municipality of Lumparland. The trip takes 1 hour and 45 minutes. There is a fee. Mariehamn is then about 30 minutes by car from Långnäs. You can also take the bus. Note: Some ferry connections only run between Snäckö-Överö (Föglö), from where you have to drive 17 km to the port of Degerby and from there take the ferry m/s Skarven to the main island of Åland. The ferry to Seglinge also leaves from here, duration 7 minutes. It runs as needed, there are certain breaks in the timetable. Tip: Worthwhile excursion destinations in Kumlinge are the Kumlinge church with medieval wall paintings, the local pharmacy and the Hermas farm in Enklinge. If you are looking for an exciting archipelago adventure, you should rent a tour boat with a guide. Otherwise, you can enjoy the view from the old Bärö maritime surveillance station, take the cable ferry to Seglinge or continue your archipelago trip from Snäckö towards the south. https://saaristolautat.fi/
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Over Island port: The southern line starts (about 2.5) hours (fee apply) from Långnäs, Lumparland and Galtby, Korpo on the Finnish mainland. The ferry calls at the intermediate ports of Överö, Sottunga, Husö, Kyrkogårdsö and Kökar. (Galtby ▸ Kökar ▸ Kyrkogårdsö ▸ Husö ▸ Sottunga ▸ Föglö (port Överö)▸ Långnäs) https://www.aland.travel/sodra-linjen Cross Line (M/S Ejdern) is 1-2 times a day, takes 1 our 45 minutes, Överö on demand only, fee apply
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Vårdö's St. Matthias Chapel is located on the old post road, so it is clear that the church's history goes back to the Middle Ages. The chapel is disproportionate in its proportions: its narrow tower has a ceiling that is far too large. In 1804, it was ordered that the church panels be rebuilt in stone according to Tempelmann's drawings, but something went wrong and the result was disproportionate. However, the parish considered the new changes too expensive.
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Good overnight accommodations with a tent or in the small cottages. A heated sauna (free), a modern, attractive kitchen with a refrigerator for home cooking, a restaurant, a small shop, and a guest marina. A good, soft meadow for camping. I was very satisfied. Kumlinge Cottages Restaurant Kastören Kumlinge Marina https://en.kumlingestugor.com/ info@kumlingestugor.com +358 400 529 199
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Kökar is a scenically beautiful island with a hotel, restaurants, a guest harbor, a folklore museum and a very convenient self-service shop open 24 hours a day. It has 223 inhabitants, of whom about 95 percent are Swedish-speaking, and an area of 63.94 square kilometers, of which 0.39 square kilometers are inland waters. As in all of Åland, Swedish is the official language. In the far south of the Åland Islands lies the Kökar archipelago, which consists of a larger island surrounded by thousands of smaller islands. The main island has about 250 inhabitants and has been inhabited for about 3000 years. The first inhabitants were probably seal hunters. Kökar's waters have always been rich in fish and where there are fish, there are seals. For hundreds of years, fishing has been the most important industry. Locals sailed to the fish markets in Stockholm and Turku to sell their catch and exchange it for needed goods. People here have always been self-sufficient. Kökar is also known for the Franciscan monastery that stood here in the Middle Ages. Today, Franciscan Days are held every year in July to celebrate the saint. https://www.aland.travel/kokar-attractions Located on the FERRY Södra Line | Southern Line | Southern Line GALTBY ▸ KÖKAR ▸ KYRKOGÅRDSÖ ▸ HUSÖ ▸ SOTTUNGA ▸ FÖGLÖ (ÖVERÖ) ▸ LÅNGNÄS aland.travel/sodra-linjen-fi
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FERRY Södra line | Southern Line | Southern line GALTBY ▸ KÖKAR ▸ KYRKOGÅRDSÖ ▸ HUSÖ ▸ SOTTUNGA ▸ FÖGLÖ (ÖVERÖ) ▸ LÅNGNÄS https://www.aland.travel/sodra-linjen-fi
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We stayed here overnight in a tent. Beautiful spot, fantastic view, friendly people, good sanitary facilities and secondary facilities such as a fire pit and benches. Cafe at the marina open from 12:00, August 6 is almost low season for them. Restaurant (17:00-20:00) seems to stay open.
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Here one can sleep in a tent or a hut. There is also a water tap to fill up water bottles.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions around Sottunga?
Yes, the region offers several family-friendly spots. For instance, St. Matthias Chapel (Vårdö) is a historical site that can be interesting for families. Additionally, Kumlinge Cottages & Marina provides accommodation, a cafe, and a restaurant, making it a convenient stop for families exploring the islands.
What historical sites can I visit near Sottunga?
You can explore St. Matthias Chapel (Vårdö), which dates back to the Middle Ages and is known for its unique architecture. The island of Kökar, accessible via the Kökar Ferry Terminal, also has a rich history, including a Franciscan monastery from the Middle Ages and a past centered around seal hunting and fishing.
What hiking opportunities are available near Sottunga?
The Sottunga archipelago offers various hiking opportunities. You can find trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. For example, there are easy loops like the 'View of the Baltic Sea – View of the Archipelago loop from Sviö' (3.7 km) and the 'Dry Toilet loop from Hellsö' (2.6 km). For more options, explore the Hiking around Sottunga guide.
Can I go cycling around Sottunga?
Yes, cycling is a great way to explore the islands. There are several routes, such as the 'Kökar, the pearl of the Åland Islands' (27.6 km, moderate) or the 'Kumlinge Marina – Kökar Museum loop from Kökar' (16.1 km, easy). You can find more cycling routes in the Cycling around Sottunga guide.
How can I travel between the islands near Sottunga?
The primary mode of transport between the islands is by ferry. Key terminals include Överö Ferry Terminal in Föglö, Kökar Ferry Terminal, and Snäckö Ferry Terminal in Kumlinge. These terminals are part of the Southern Line ferry route, connecting various islands in the Åland archipelago.
Are there places to eat or stay near the attractions?
Yes, Kumlinge Cottages & Marina offers accommodation in tents or huts, along with a cafe and a restaurant. It also provides good sanitary facilities, a modern kitchen, and a guest marina. Kökar island, accessible via its ferry terminal, also has a hotel, restaurants, and a convenient self-service shop.
What kind of natural features or wildlife can I expect to see?
The Sottunga region is characterized by its unique archipelago landscape. You'll encounter numerous smaller islands, coastal views, and a maritime environment. Kökar, in particular, has a history tied to seal hunting, suggesting a presence of marine wildlife in the surrounding waters. The area is rich in natural beauty typical of the Åland Islands.
When is the best time to visit Sottunga and its surrounding islands?
The summer months (June to August) are generally considered the best time to visit the Åland archipelago, including Sottunga. During this period, the weather is mildest, ferry services are most frequent, and all facilities like cafes and restaurants are typically open. The long daylight hours also allow for extended exploration of the islands and outdoor activities.
What should I wear for outdoor activities in the Sottunga archipelago?
For outdoor activities like hiking and cycling in the Sottunga archipelago, it's advisable to dress in layers. Even in summer, coastal weather can be unpredictable, so bring waterproof and windproof outer layers. Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are essential. Don't forget sun protection, insect repellent, and a hat, especially during warmer months.
Is wild swimming possible around Sottunga?
Given Sottunga's location within the Åland archipelago, wild swimming is certainly possible in the numerous bays and along the coastline. The clear waters of the Baltic Sea offer refreshing opportunities for a dip. Always be mindful of local regulations, boat traffic, and water temperatures, which are warmest in late summer.
Are there any unique or less-known spots worth visiting?
Beyond the main ferry terminals, consider exploring the island of Kumlinge, accessible from Snäckö Ferry Terminal. It boasts the Kumlinge church with medieval wall paintings, a local pharmacy, and the Hermas farm in Enklinge. The old Bärö maritime surveillance station also offers great views.
Are the attractions around Sottunga accessible by public transport?
Access to the attractions around Sottunga is primarily via the inter-island ferry system, which functions as public transport in the archipelago. The various ferry terminals, such as Överö Ferry Terminal and Kökar Ferry Terminal, are key hubs for reaching the different islands and their points of interest.
Most popular routes around Sottunga
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