Gotland – A Serene Escape to a Baltic Island Paradise

Gotland, Sweden’s largest island, is a haven for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a tranquil escape. Embrace its unique blend of natural beauty and fascinating heritage as you explore its charming towns, secluded beaches, and enigmatic rock formations.

Gotlandia is the largest island in the Baltic Sea, located 90 kilometers from the Scandinavian Peninsula. It has a surface area of 3,140 square kilometers and is 176 kilometers long and 50 kilometers wide. The island is home to over 57,000 people.

The island has a flat landscape with the highest point being 83 meters above sea level. Lakes are a characteristic feature of the island’s landscape, with the largest being Bästeträsk (6.3 square kilometers) and the deepest being Sigvalde träsk (maximum depth of 16 meters).

The island’s vegetation is mainly coniferous forests and meadows, where cattle are grazed. The main economic activities are fishing, agriculture, and handicrafts. The island’s mild climate and the many beaches and historical attractions make it a popular tourist destination.

The capital of Gotlandia is Visby, a city of 24,000 people with well-preserved medieval architecture. In the Middle Ages, Gotlandia was a trading center due to its unique location in the middle of the Baltic Sea. The island was initially part of the Hanseatic League, but in 1361 it came under Danish rule. In 1645, it became part of Sweden under the Treaty of Bromsebro. The Vikings ruled the island for centuries, leaving countless traces of their presence.

Gotland has a diverse coastline, with some parts resembling the shores of southern seas. On a good day, you can wade in crystal-clear water, casting your line for silver torpedoes that often jump out of the water after taking your bait. These are memories that will last a lifetime.

In some months, you can take a break from sea fishing on Gotland. Our partner on the island can organize fishing trips on a lake, where you can catch perch and pike. However, the lake may be covered in ice (especially in early spring), making it impossible to fish from a boat.

Accessibility of the fishing grounds

Trocie on Gotland are caught from the shore or wading in the water (neoprene waders are essential). There are many great spots, but if you’re visiting for the first time, it’s a good idea to get advice from a local guide or expert from the Eventur Fishing office. You will need a car to get around the island, as you can drive to many beaches in many places.

Recommended fishing methods

The best method for catching trout is spinning with lures or artificial flies (on a set with a sbirolino), as well as the classic fly fishing with a line. Detailed information on techniques and baits is available at the Eventur Fishing office.

Limits, restrictions, and fishing regulations

According to local custom, only as many fish as are needed for immediate consumption on the day of the catch may be taken from the fishing grounds. In Sweden, it is not customary to take fish as a reserve or to freeze them. The exception is marine salmonids or herring, which can be taken in larger quantities for processing in a smokehouse or in a marinade. So, in the case of trout, we can even take a few fish of the required size per person, but even here we appeal for moderation, common sense, and respect for nature. Locals do not practice taking keltics, which they consider unsportsmanlike (a fish weakened by spawning). Keltics are also protected, as there is certainty that they are able to reproduce in their natural environment. There is no such certainty for silverlings – many of them may be sterile.

Warning! During the operation of a boat in Sweden, the permissible blood alcohol limit for the boat’s helmsman is 0.1 per mille. A higher amount of alcohol in the exhaled air results in very high fines (even several to several tens of thousands of crowns), and after exceeding the value of 1 per mille, it can result in imprisonment. On many Swedish fishing grounds, there are temporarily (for example, during the breeding season of birds or during the spawning of fish) fishing areas that are excluded from fishing.

After fishing, you can enjoy a picnic on the beach. A hot fish soup or grilled sausage tastes better than ever on the fresh, crisp air. After your meal, you can take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the wild Scandinavian wilderness.

Here are some interesting attractions in Visby:

• Visby’s medieval city wall. This is one of the best-preserved medieval city walls in Europe, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• The Domkyrkan. This is a Gothic church that is one of the oldest buildings in Visby.

• The Gotland Museum. This museum has exhibits about the history, culture, and natural history of Gotland.
• The Högklint cliffs. These are high cliffs that offer stunning views of the Baltic Sea.
• The rauk fields. These are strange rock formations that are believed to have been created by glaciers.
• The Kvarntornet. This is a medieval tower that is one of the most iconic landmarks in Visby.
• The Almedalen Forum. This is an annual conference that is held in Visby each summer
• The Gotland Archipelago. This archipelago is made up of hundreds of islands, and it is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and kayaking.
• The fishing village of Fårösund. This village is located on the island of Fårö, and it is a popular destination for seafood lovers.

With its rich history, captivating culture, and stunning natural beauty, Gotland is a true gem of the Baltic Sea. From the well-preserved medieval city walls of Visby to the otherworldly rauk formations, there is something to captivate every traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a cultural immersion, Gotland promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing for its shores. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to Gotland, where the past and present intertwine to create a paradise like no other.