From coastal trails and limestone landscapes to historic gardens and windswept beaches, the outdoor attractions in Borgholm offer a varied way to experience northern Öland. This guide covers the best places for nature, hiking, parks and relaxed days outside, whether you are visiting Borgholm town or exploring the wider municipality.
Why explore the outdoors around Borgholm?
Borgholm is one of Öland’s most popular destinations, but its appeal extends well beyond the town centre. The surrounding landscape combines Baltic Sea coastline, open alvar, flower-rich meadows, ancient woodland and long beaches. Many of the best places can be reached by car or bicycle, making it easy to build a full day of outdoor sightseeing.
The island is relatively flat, so most walks are accessible to visitors who prefer gentle terrain. At the same time, the exposed coast, rocky paths and forest trails provide plenty of variety for regular hikers. Spring brings colourful wildflowers, summer is ideal for swimming and long evenings outdoors, while autumn offers clear air, quieter paths and warm colours in the woodland.
When planning your itinerary, remember that Borgholm can refer both to the town and to Borgholm Municipality. Several of the outdoor attractions in this guide are outside the town itself, but they are within a practical driving distance and are well suited to day trips.
Borgholm Castle and its surrounding landscape
Borgholm Castle is one of the most recognisable landmarks on Öland. The ruined Baroque castle stands on a limestone rise just outside the town, with broad views over the surrounding countryside and the Kalmarsund strait. Although the castle interior is a heritage attraction, the grounds and nearby landscape are an important part of the experience.
Visitors can walk around the massive outer walls, look across the fields and enjoy changing views as the light moves over the stone. The open setting makes the castle particularly impressive on a clear day, but it can also be windy, so a light jacket is useful even in summer.
Several paths connect the castle area with nearby countryside. A visit works well as part of a longer walk linking the castle, Solliden and Borgholm town. Wear comfortable shoes because some surfaces are uneven, and take care near edges and old stonework. Entry to the castle grounds is generally ticketed during the main season, so check current opening information before travelling.
Solliden Palace gardens
Solliden is the Swedish royal family’s summer residence and one of the most carefully maintained parks near Borgholm. The palace itself is not generally open as a normal public attraction, but the gardens welcome visitors during the season. They include formal areas, terraces, woodland sections and planting inspired by different garden traditions.
The gardens are a peaceful contrast to Öland’s open coastline. Stroll through the grounds at an unhurried pace, pause beside the flower beds and look for views through the trees. The park is especially attractive from late spring through summer, when perennial borders and roses add colour to the paths.
Solliden is a good choice for travellers who want outdoor scenery without a demanding hike. Paths are easier than many natural trails, although conditions can vary between different garden areas. The site also has facilities such as refreshments and toilets during the visitor season. Combine it with Borgholm Castle, which is close by, for one of the most convenient outdoor half days in the area.
Halltorps hage nature reserve
Halltorps hage is one of the most distinctive nature reserves near Borgholm. Located south of the town along the western side of Öland, the reserve is known for its old oak trees, grazing landscape and rich biodiversity. Some of the oaks are centuries old, creating a habitat for insects, fungi, birds and plants that depend on mature woodland.
The paths through Halltorps hage are relatively gentle and suitable for a quiet walk rather than a strenuous hike. The scenery changes between open pasture, leafy woodland and views towards the coast. In spring and early summer, flowers appear among the grass, while the shade of the trees makes the reserve pleasant during warmer weather.
Take time to examine the old trees without climbing on them or disturbing the surrounding ground. The reserve is valuable because of its long continuity and sensitive habitats. Dogs should be kept under control, and visitors should follow any local signs concerning grazing animals and seasonal restrictions.
Coastal walks and beaches at Köpingsvik
Köpingsvik is a popular seaside area a few kilometres east of Borgholm. Its sandy beach and shallow water make it one of the easiest places near town for swimming, sunbathing and family-friendly outdoor time. The shoreline is also a pleasant setting for a walk, particularly in the morning or during the quieter parts of the evening.
Because the beach is exposed to the Baltic Sea, conditions can change quickly. On calm summer days, the water may be inviting for swimming, while windy weather creates a different atmosphere with waves and open horizons. Bring a towel, drinking water and sun protection, as some parts of the coast provide limited shade.
Köpingsvik is more developed than many of Öland’s nature areas, with accommodation, seasonal services and places to eat nearby. This makes it an easy base for combining beach time with a longer exploration of Borgholm’s parks and historic sites. A coastal walk can also be paired with cycling along local roads, although cyclists should remain alert around traffic during the busy summer season.
Borgholm’s town parks and green spaces
You do not need to leave the town to enjoy nature in Borgholm. The town has several green spaces and tree-lined areas where visitors can slow down between sightseeing stops. These parks are useful for a picnic, a short walk or a quiet break after visiting shops and restaurants.
Borgholm’s harbour area is particularly pleasant in fine weather. Walk along the waterfront, watch boats entering and leaving the marina and continue through nearby streets for views of older buildings and gardens. The town’s compact layout means that many outdoor stops can be visited on foot.
For a longer urban walk, create a route that links the harbour with the castle area and Solliden. This gives you a mixture of water views, historic architecture, gardens and open countryside without requiring a car between every stop. The route is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, with time allowed for café breaks and photography.
Byrum’s raukar and the northern coast
Byrum’s raukar is one of the most unusual outdoor attractions in Borgholm Municipality. On the northern west coast of Öland, waves and weather have shaped the limestone into tall, irregular formations known as raukar. The pale rocks stand against the sea and create a dramatic natural setting that feels very different from the sandy beaches farther south.
A path leads through the coastal area, allowing visitors to view the formations from different angles. The walk is not usually difficult, but the ground can be rocky and uneven. Sturdy footwear is helpful, especially after rain or when moving close to the shoreline. The rocks are best photographed in low sunlight, when shadows emphasise their shapes.
Byrum’s raukar is also a good place to observe the quieter side of Öland. There may be few facilities immediately beside the formations, so bring water and snacks, and take all rubbish with you. Avoid climbing on fragile rock surfaces and keep a safe distance from the edge where the coast is uneven.
Hiking in Bödaskogen
Bödaskogen, in the northern part of Öland, is one of the island’s largest forest areas and a rewarding destination for hiking. The landscape includes pine woodland, sandy ground, quiet tracks and coastal sections. It provides welcome shelter on windy days and a cooler environment when the limestone landscape feels exposed.
The forest contains several walking and cycling routes of different lengths. Some follow broad, easy tracks, while others lead through narrower woodland paths. Look out for signs at trailheads and plan your route according to daylight, weather and your own experience. Mobile coverage and services can be less consistent than in Borgholm town, so offline maps are useful.
Bödaskogen is home to birds, deer and other wildlife. Early morning and evening are often the best times for a peaceful walk, but visitors should move quietly and avoid disturbing animals. During dry periods, follow fire safety rules carefully. Never light a fire outside designated places, and check current restrictions before using a barbecue or camping stove.
Trollskogen nature reserve
At the northern tip of Öland, Trollskogen is one of the island’s most memorable nature reserves. The name means troll forest, inspired by the twisted and wind-shaped pine trees that grow near the coast. The trees have been sculpted by the exposed location, creating forms that look unusual from every angle.
Marked walking routes lead through the forest and along the shoreline. They range from shorter family-friendly walks to longer routes for visitors who want to spend several hours outdoors. Along the way, you may see coastal meadows, old woodland, sea views and traces of the area’s cultural history.
Trollskogen’s paths can be uneven, with roots, stones and soft ground in places. Good shoes are recommended, particularly outside the dry summer period. The reserve is also a strong choice for birdwatching, but binoculars are not essential to enjoy the scenery. Follow marked routes, respect protected habitats and do not remove plants, driftwood or other natural material.
Coastal nature at Böda and Homrevet
The northern coast around Böda offers a broad choice of outdoor experiences, from long sandy beaches to quieter stretches of shore and forest. Böda Sand is well known for its expansive beach, while nearby areas such as Homrevet provide a more natural coastal atmosphere. The coastline is ideal for walking, swimming, beachcombing and watching sunsets over the Baltic.
A beach walk can be surprisingly different from a forest hike. The terrain is open, the horizon is wide and the sound of the sea dominates the experience. Wind can make the walk feel more demanding than the flat landscape suggests, so dress in layers and protect your eyes from blowing sand on breezy days.
These coastal areas become busy in July, especially around popular holiday centres. Visit early in the day or outside the high season for more space. Keep dogs under control, use designated parking areas and avoid driving onto dunes, which are vulnerable to erosion.
Tips for hiking and enjoying nature near Borgholm
- Choose footwear carefully: Town parks and formal gardens are easy in trainers, but rocky coasts, forest paths and nature reserves are more comfortable with supportive shoes.
- Bring water: Some reserves have limited services, particularly outside the summer season. Carry enough for the length of your walk.
- Check the forecast: Öland is exposed to wind, and coastal weather can feel cooler than conditions inland.
- Use marked trails: Staying on established paths protects fragile plants and reduces the risk of getting lost.
- Respect grazing animals: Close gates behind you and keep dogs leashed or under close control where signs require it.
- Plan for daylight: Longer routes in the northern forests and coastal reserves can take more time than expected.
- Leave no trace: Take rubbish home, avoid picking wildflowers and do not remove stones or fossils from protected areas.
- Pack for changing activities: A swimsuit, rain layer, picnic and binoculars can make it easier to combine beaches, parks and nature walks in one day.
When to visit the outdoor attractions in Borgholm
Late spring is a rewarding time to visit if you enjoy flowers, fresh green woodland and relatively quiet paths. Many gardens begin to look their best from May onwards, while nature reserves become active with birds and insects. Some seasonal attractions and cafés may have limited opening hours early in the spring, so check ahead.
Summer offers the widest choice of activities. Beaches, gardens and historic sites are fully active, and long daylight hours make it possible to combine several outdoor attractions in one day. July is also the busiest period, particularly around Borgholm, Köpingsvik and Böda. Booking accommodation early is sensible if you plan to visit during the school holidays.
September and early October are excellent for hiking and photography. The crowds thin out, the light becomes softer and the forests begin to change colour. Some visitor facilities reduce their hours after summer, but the natural areas remain enjoyable whenever conditions are suitable.
How to build an outdoor day in Borgholm
For a convenient day close to town, start with a morning walk around Borgholm Castle and continue to Solliden’s gardens. Have lunch in Borgholm, then spend the afternoon at Köpingsvik beach or along the harbour. This itinerary combines history, parks, coastal scenery and time to relax without a long drive.
For a nature-focused day, head north to Byrum’s raukar and continue towards Bödaskogen or Trollskogen. The distances are greater, but the contrast between limestone coast, pine forest and wind-shaped trees makes the journey worthwhile. Bring a packed lunch and allow extra time for stops along the road.
If you prefer a slower schedule, choose one reserve and explore it thoroughly rather than trying to see everything. Öland’s outdoor landscapes reward attention to small details, including bird calls, lichen-covered rocks, old trees and changing coastal light. With comfortable shoes and a flexible plan, the outdoor attractions in Borgholm can provide some of the most memorable experiences on northern Öland.