Öland by Car: A Complete Guide to Sweden's Island of Sun, Wind & Windmills

Welcome to Öland, Sweden's second-largest island and a cherished summer paradise. Connected to the mainland city of Kalmar by the impressive Öland Bridge, this long, narrow island offers a unique blend of sun-drenched beaches, ancient history, and a landscape unlike any other in the country. It’s the ultimate Swedish road trip destination, easily accessible without needing a ferry.

Öland is famous for its unique nature, particularly the vast, barren limestone plain of Stora Alvaret (a UNESCO World Heritage site), its iconic lighthouses guarding the northern and southern tips, and the hundreds of characteristic windmills that dot the countryside. This guide is based on our 4-night family road trip from Stockholm, sharing our experiences and tips to help you plan your own unforgettable adventure.

The best way to experience Öland is by car. Our 6.5-hour drive from Stockholm was a scenic journey south, culminating in the thrilling crossing of the 6-kilometer long Öland Bridge, which is free of charge. The view from the bridge as you approach the island is the perfect start to the adventure.

Once on the island, a car is not just a convenience—it's essential. Öland is over 130 km long, and its best attractions are spread out. A car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, from the sandy beaches of the north to the rugged nature reserves of the south. We particularly loved the drive itself; the nice views while driving near the sea, past charming villages and fields full of windmills, were a huge part of the experience.

For our 4-night stay, we rented a cottage via Airbnb, a very popular choice on Öland. It provided a perfect home base for our family, offering space, privacy, and the convenience of a kitchen. This allowed us to prepare our own breakfasts and some dinners, which is a great way to manage costs and relax after a long day of exploring. Booking well in advance is crucial, especially for the peak month of July.

With our car as our trusted companion, we explored the length of the island. Here are the highlights of what we visited, with Borgholm standing out as our favorite town!

• Borgholm Castle (Borgholms Slott): The majestic ruins of this former baroque palace are a must-see. The sheer scale is breathtaking, and wandering through the roofless halls offers a tangible connection to history. The views over the Kalmar Strait from the castle grounds are spectacular. The nearby town of Borgholm is the island's vibrant hub, with a lovely harbor, bustling shops, and great restaurants. We loved its lively atmosphere.
• The Lighthouses: Långe Erik & Långe Jan: No trip is complete without visiting the island's guardians. At the windswept northern tip, Långe Erik offers panoramic views of the sea. At the southern end, within the Ottenby nature reserve, stands Långe Jan, Sweden's tallest lighthouse. The reserve itself is a paradise for birdwatchers.
• Böda Sand Beach: In the north lies one of Sweden's most famous beaches. It’s a vast crescent of fine white sand, perfect for a family beach day. Even with the wind, we had a fantastic time enjoying the sand and the classic summer resort vibe.
• The Windmills: You will see windmills everywhere! These iconic wooden windmills are the symbol of Öland, especially in the southern half. They add a unique, historical charm to the landscape, and you'll find yourself stopping frequently to photograph them.
• Stora Alvaret (The Great Alvar): We drove through and stopped at parts of this UNESCO World Heritage site. It's a vast, otherworldly limestone plain with a unique, almost-lunar landscape. It supports rare plants, including wild orchids in late spring, and is a fantastic place for hiking.
• Eketorp Fort (Eketorps borg): Though we didn't get to it on this trip, this reconstructed Iron Age ringfort in southern Öland is highly recommended. During summer, it becomes a living history museum with actors and demonstrations.

One thing you'll quickly learn about Öland is that it's almost always windy. We visited in July, the warmest month, yet the wind was a constant and powerful companion. This is what makes the island a hotspot for wind- and kitesurfing, but it can catch new visitors by surprise.

The wind can make it feel significantly cooler than the temperature suggests, especially on exposed coastlines or at the lighthouses. Packing correctly is the key to staying comfortable and enjoying your time outdoors.

Öland's culinary scene is rooted in its local produce. For an authentic taste of the region, you must try "Kroppkakor." These are hearty potato dumplings, traditionally filled with a mixture of pork and onion, and served with melted butter and lingonberry jam. It’s a truly unique and filling dish.

The island's farm shops (gårdsbutiker) are also a highlight. We loved stopping at these to buy fresh local produce like new potatoes, sweet strawberries, and other regional specialties. For a classic Swedish break, find a charming café for fika and enjoy a coffee with a pastry, often made with local ingredients.

We visited in July, which is the absolute peak season. This means the best weather for swimming but also the biggest crowds and highest prices for accommodation and food. If you prioritize warm beach days, this is the time to go. For fewer crowds and a focus on nature (like the orchids on Alvaret in May) or cycling, consider the shoulder seasons of late spring or early autumn. When budgeting, remember that accommodation will be your biggest expense in summer. Booking a cottage and self-catering is a great strategy to manage costs.

A huge advantage of an Öland road trip is the proximity to the beautiful city of Kalmar. We planned a stop here on our way back, and highly recommend you do the same. The city's main attraction is the magnificent Kalmar Castle (Kalmar Slott), one of Sweden's best-preserved Renaissance castles. It’s a fantastic way to break up the long drive.

Our road trip to Öland was a truly memorable family adventure. Having a car was key to unlocking the island's treasures, from the dramatic castle ruins to the tranquil, windmill-dotted plains. We loved the lively atmosphere of Borgholm and the simple pleasure of the coastal drives.

Öland offers a captivating blend of history, unique nature, and classic summer fun. While the wind is a force to be reckoned with, it’s part of the island's wild charm. For anyone looking for a destination that is easy to reach by car and offers a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration, Öland is an unbeatable choice. Just don't forget that jacket!

Ready to plan your trip? Here are some helpful links:

• 🔗 Official Öland Tourism Website
• 🔗 Official Kalmar Tourism Website
• 🔗 Borgholm Castle Official Website
• 🔗 Eketorp Fort Information