Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Swedish 2016 Must-See Destinations
The plant Viper’s bugloss is just one of many beautiful species here.
The Swedish island where the sun always shines Head to the island of Öland in the southwest of Sweden, where the town of Borgholm celebrates its 200th anniversary in 2016. This gem had more than 460 hours of sunshine last summer and offers the perfect mix of small-town charm, vast landscapes and family-friendly events. By Ellinor Thunberg | Photos: Press photos
“It’s a beautiful day! The sun always shines here,” says Stefan Ahlgren, acting destination developer, when we catch him over the phone on a December morning before Christmas.
tions in the country, according to the annual survey, Solligan. No wonder it is a popular holiday destination for Swedes. Even the Swedish Royal Family spend their summers here.
In summertime, Sweden’s second largest island is one of the sunniest destina-
“I’m always amazed by the open landscape. You can see the sea, horizon and sky meet. Öland offers a great sense of freedom,” says Ahlgren, adding: “The scenery is full of unique plants and nature. It’s calm and peaceful and, during the summer months, bustling with life.”
Borgholm celebrates 200 years The main town, Borgholm, celebrates 200 years in 2016 with a festive cele78 | Issue 84 | January 2016
bration, particularly around the jubilee weekend in August. This also coincides with the Swedish King’s vintage car race, Svenska Kungsrallyt, where you can spot H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf driving his Volvo PV 60 from 1946. Another good day for catching a glimpse of the Royal Family is around H.R.H. Crown Princess Victoria’s birthday in July. The public celebration, Victoriadagen, starts at the family’s summer residence, Solliden, and ends in the afternoon in Borgholm, where live performances and music are broadcasted to a national audience. Solliden is an essential destination between May and September for anyone interested in gardens, handicraft and local produce. Jam, herbs and quirky brown-bean crisps are just some of the local artisan produce on the island. It is even sunny enough for vineyards, and