5 charming getaways to discover on Gotland

What is it? Just south of Visby, the Södra Hällarna nature and outdoor recreation area offers spectacular coastal scenery. Once a military firing range, the site has been restored and made more accessible so that as many people as possible can enjoy it. There are walking and cycling paths, benches, barbecue areas and stairways that make it possible to reach the sea even where the terrain is steep.

Why go? Södra Hällarna is perfect for running, walking or cycling through varied landscapes of dramatic cliffs, enchanting woodland and a pebble beach. For Visby locals, it’s a favourite spot for a lunchtime stroll, an evening picnic, a bike ride or a walk with the dog. Its proximity to Visby also makes it incredibly easy to reach.

Time Out tip: Cycle here from Visby in the evening and time your visit for sunset. The uninterrupted horizon makes for stunning photographs. Bring a picnic, make use of the barbecue areas and let nature provide the entertainment.

Södra Hällarna Nature Reserve. The easiest access is via Kvarnåkersgatan or Gutamålsgatan, where parking is available beside the reserve.

What is it? A hugely popular bakery and café just a few minutes’ drive north of Visby. Its garden terrace overlooks the Baltic Sea and the picturesque harbour of Själsö, while the aroma of freshly baked bread is never far away.

Why go? Fresh buns, pastries, cakes and bread are baked here every day throughout the summer. The wood-fired stone oven gives the bread its distinctive character, while real butter and organic flour make all the difference in flavour. The hardest part is deciding what to choose, though you can rarely go wrong with one of the bakery’s soft, fluffy buns.

Time Out tip: After your coffee break, head down to Själsö harbour just below the bakery. It’s a welcoming little harbour with charming fishing huts and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. You can also take a swim from the jetty or dive in from the harbour pier.

Själsövägen 10, Visby. Open daily 08.00-17.00.

What is it? A 30-minute boat ride from Klintehamn, Stora Karlsö is an island that many describe as a paradise in the Baltic Sea. Expect tranquillity, nature and adventure. Visit for the day or stay overnight.

Why go? The sense of seclusion is immediate as soon as you step ashore. Join a guided tour, included in your boat ticket, and spot the common murres, sometimes referred to as Sweden’s own penguins. There’s also a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and fika, with breathtaking sea views that make it easy to linger a little longer.

Time Out tip: Get even closer to nature by spending the night in one of Camp Karlsö’s glamping tents. They combine comfort with simplicity, and each tent comes equipped with slippers and bathrobes, making that early morning swim all the more tempting.

Return boat tickets, including the guided tour, cost SEK 465 for adults and SEK 195 for children aged 6-15. Book at https://storakarlso.se/resa-till-stora-karlso/turlista-och-priser/.

What is it? Set inside a former chapel in Tofta, Berså is a charming stop for anyone who loves good coffee and beautiful interiors. Settle into the lush garden with a freshly baked bun, other pastries or a simple sandwich before browsing the carefully selected homeware inside.

Why go? As well as its charming setting, Berså is perfectly placed if you’re heading south from Visby. It makes an ideal extra stop before or after a day at Tofta Beach, or if you’re looking for something to do on a cloudy day.

Time Out tip: Keep an eye out along the road between Visby and Tofta. You’ll find, among other things, a classic flea market and another inspiring interiors shop, both well worth a visit.

Tofta Licksarve 110, Gotlands Tofta. Open daily 11.00-17.00 during the summer. Limited opening hours in spring and autumn. Closed during winter.

What is it? Kutens Bensin and Crêperie Tati on Fårö is more than just a café and restaurant – it’s a place with cult status. Vintage cars and old neon signs share the courtyard with fridges and oil drums. The late founder Thomas Lindholm had a passion for James Dean and Elvis, and the interiors are steeped in the spirit of the ’50s and ’60s.

Why go? Kutens Bensin is truly one of a kind. Wander among vintage cars, retro fridges and other nostalgic memorabilia before sitting down for a crêpe or a galette.

Time Out tip: Don’t miss Kuten’s live music evenings. You never know who might take to the stage, and over the years plenty of major bands and artists have performed here.

Fårö Broskogs 1156, Fårö. Open daily during the peak season. A free car ferry runs from Fårösund in northern Gotland. Timetable: https://www.trafikverket.se/resa-och-trafik/farjetrafik/farosundsleden/.