PAID CONTENT FOR BENGTSKÄR LIGHTHOUSE ISLAND & KIMITOÖN ISLANDS
PAID CONTENT FOR BENGTSKÄR LIGHTHOUSE ISLAND & KIMITOÖN ISLANDS
PAID CONTENT FOR BENGTSKÄR LIGHTHOUSE ISLAND & KIMITOÖN ISLANDS
Bengtskär Lighthouse Island & Kimitoön Islands SOUTHWEST FINLAND, FINLAND
AT THE OUTER EDGE OF FINLAND’S ARCHIPELAGO, BENGTSKÄR LIGHTHOUSE AND THE KIMITOÖN ISLANDS REVEAL A LANDSCAPE SHAPED BY WIND AND WATER
In the southwest reaches of Finland, where the Baltic fragments into thousands of islands, bays and skerries, the Kimitoön Islands offer a rare encounter with Nordic stillness. Forming part of the Archipelago Sea National Park and the Unesco Archipelago Sea Biosphere Reserve, the region balances untouched coastal wilderness with a living island culture. Pine forests lean towards the shore, waves polish ancient granite and the horizon opens towards the outer archipelago. Time slows naturally in this environment, inviting travellers to observe, breathe and settle into the rhythm of island life.
Bengtskär Lighthouse: a maritime icon Standing at the threshold of the open sea, Bengtskär Lighthouse Island is the southern archipelago’s most recognisable landmark. Rising from bare rock, Bengtskär is home to the tallest lighthouse in the Nordic countries and marks its 120-year anniversary in 2026. A climb of 252 steps and two final ladders leads to the lantern room,
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where sweeping views stretch across the Baltic in every direction. Although the island is only around four acres in size, its impact is profound. Wind, waves and shifting light define an atmosphere that lingers long after departure. Built in 1906 following a tragic shipwreck,
Bengtskär became a monument to safety and human perseverance. Lighthouse keepers and their families once endured frozen winters, violent storms and long periods of isolation. During the Second World War, the island stood on the frontline and witnessed the Battle of Bengtskär in 1941. Today, these layers of history remain visible throughout the lighthouse, from former living quarters to the worn steps climbed by previous generations.
Exploring Kimitoön by land and sea Back on the main island of Kimitoön, the landscape unfolds through coastal forests, meadows and quiet village roads. Walking trails such as the Purunpää Nature Trail reveal ancient geological formations
and expansive shorelines, ideal for unhurried exploration. Cycling is equally rewarding, with peaceful roads linking harbours, cafes, viewpoints and traditional archipelago villages. The sea remains central to daily life. Sailing,
boating and paddling provide immersive ways to experience the islands, supported by a well- developed network of guest harbours and marinas. Many visitors combine island-hopping with cultural visits or nights spent at anchor beneath the lingering northern twilight.
Islands of nature and history Kasnäs serves as a key gateway to the Archipelago Sea National Park, offering boat connections to Bengtskär and Örö Island. Once a closed military area, Örö is now a protected national park known for exceptional biodiversity and layered coastal history. Visitors explore artillery roads, windswept dunes and rare flora, with accommodation ranging from a hotel and guesthouses to nature-focused tent sites.
On the eastern side of the region, the former
ironworks village of Dalsbruk reveals another chapter of local heritage. Once an industrial centre supplying goods across the Baltic, it’s evolved into a lively cultural hub where historic buildings sit alongside cafes, artisan workshops and a summer marina.
Wellness, sauna and slow living Wellness in the Kimitoön Islands is shaped by nature rather than schedules. The rhythm of the sea, clean air and ever-changing light create a setting that naturally encourages rest and reflection. Traditional Finnish sauna culture plays a central role, with many seaside saunas offering direct access to the Baltic for invigorating dips. Incorporating everything from wood-fired saunas tucked into forest edges to contemporary spa facilities in Kasnäs, the experience is deeply rooted in local life. Foraging, swimming, hiking and spending time
outdoors form part of a slower, more mindful way of living. Silence isn’t an absence here but a presence,
broken only by wind through pines or distant seabirds. Whether enjoyed after a day on the water or as a quiet ritual at dusk, these moments of simplicity offer visitors a profound sense of calm and connection to the archipelago environment.
A living island culture Across the Kimitoön Islands, maritime traditions continue to shape everyday life. Pilot stations, small harbours and wooden villages reflect centuries of navigation and craftsmanship. Markets, festivals and seasonal events connect visitors with local communities, creating genuine encounters rooted in place. While summer brings activity and long daylight
hours, autumn offers rich colours, harvest events and ideal conditions for hiking and photography. Winter reveals crisp air, star-filled skies and complete quiet, while spring welcomes returning birdlife and renewed coastal landscapes. In every season, Bengtskär and the Kimitoön Islands offer an authentic experience of Nordic nature, culture and maritime history.
DON’T MISS Take a boat trip to Bengtskär Lighthouse, where wind- sculpted rocks reveal the raw, elemental beauty of the outer archipelago
This content is brought to you by our sponsor. It does not necessarily reflect the views of National Geographic, National Geographic Traveller (UK) or their editorial staffs. Need to know
KEY ACTIVITIES • Explore the Moss Giants in Söderlångvik & contemporary shows at KUBU
• Cycle through ironworks villages, coastal trails & island landscapes
• See the Rosala Viking Centre • Enjoy sea views, spa facilities & services in Kasnäs
• Combine protected coastal landscapes with accommodation on Örö Island
• Visit the Sagalund Museum area to explore the history of Kimitoön
• Book a cruise on the Archipelago Sights Route or sail into the outer archipelago
• Archipelago Sea National Park & Unesco Biosphere Reserve
GET IN TOUCH
visitkimitoon.fi +358 40 144 8591
kimitoon@kimitoon.fi
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IMAGES: PEPPI WILSON; EVA LINDMAN & DAMON BECKFORD IMAGES: PEPPI WILSON; EVA LINDMAN & DAMON BECKFORD
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