The journey to Ismantorps Borg near Borgholm, Sweden’s largest city on Öland Island, isn’t difficult. The last small portion of road to the medieval ruin presents the biggest challenge, as it is not paved. On arriving at the huge fortress you will be able to absorb the immensity of the structure surrounded by forest without distraction. The purity of the site allows for unhindered reflection. Ponder the difficulties of building such a massive structure in olden times. Today only its foundation walls remain visible.
For a more tourist-oriented attraction, Borgholms Slott is the island’s most famous ruin, with a museum and tours describing the castle’s colorful and violent past. Enjoy a snack at a café just outside its massive walls and breathe in the sea air. Look for the road in this area that leads to Solliden Slott, the summer palace for Sweden’s royal family. Although entrance to the building is restricted, the open grounds resemble a park, with manicured lawns and hedges including incredible rose and flower gardens.
Get a perspective of what it must have been like to live here in the 19th century by visiting Ölands Museum Himmelsberga and its traditional long houses with their thatched or tiled roofs. For a taste of how Swedish nobility lived you’ll want to tour the Borgholms Stadsmuseum mansion located on manicured grounds.
In a peaceful setting by the sea, the modern Vida Museum features creative glass sculptures and provides informative displays on subjects such as Swedish furniture . Find Borgholms Kyrka, a brightly colored church in the town’s central area.
A short distance from Borgholm is a nature reserve, Halltorps Hage, with paths through wooded areas and along the coast.
Enjoy this part of Sweden’s natural charm, interesting cuisine and stark contrast of old and new. In the southern portion of the country, Borgholm gives you an excellent perspective of this Nordic nation while having a good variety of accommodations.
