Jomala Travel Guide

Explore the best of Jomala with our comprehensive travel guide. From must-visit attractions to local culture and customs, we've got you covered.


Introduction to Jomala

Jomala is a municipality and a town located in the scenic archipelago of Åland, Finland. With a population of around 5,500, Jomala is a quiet and peaceful destination that offers a glimpse into the unique culture and natural beauty of the Nordic countries. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in local history and tradition, explore the great outdoors or simply unwind and relax, Jomala has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Jomala

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jomala Church - This beautiful medieval church dates back to the 13th century and is the oldest surviving church in Åland.

  • Jan Karlsgården Open-Air Museum - Experience life in rural Åland during the 1800s at this living museum.

  • The Åland Hunting and Fishing Museum - Learn about the hunting and fishing traditions of Åland and see a wide range of hunting and fishing equipment.

Natural Attractions of Jomala: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kungsö Battery - Explore this historic fortification complex dating back to the 1700s and take in stunning panoramic views of the archipelago.

  • Söderby Träsk Nature Reserve - This beautiful nature reserve offers hiking trails, birdwatching and scenic views of the wetlands.

  • Ramsholmen Nature Reserve - Take a walk through the beautiful forest of Ramsholmen and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the archipelago.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jomala

  • The Archipelago Trail - This 250-kilometer-long trail takes you through the stunning archipelago of Åland, with plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking along the way.

  • Jomalaleden Trail - This 10-kilometer-long trail takes you through the beautiful natural landscapes of Jomala, with plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Jomala: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking in the Archipelago - Explore the tranquil waters of the Åland archipelago with a guided kayaking tour.

  • Fishing Tours - Try your hand at fishing in the beautiful fishing waters surrounding Jomala.

  • Horse Riding - Explore the scenic countryside of Jomala on horseback with a guided trail ride.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jomala

Day Activity
1 Visit Jomala Church and Jan Karlsgården Open-Air Museum
2 Explore Kungsö Battery and Ramsholmen Nature Reserve
3 Enjoy a guided kayaking tour of the archipelago
4 Visit The Åland Hunting and Fishing Museum and explore Söderby Träsk Nature Reserve
5 Go horse riding through the scenic countryside
6 Take a fishing tour and try your hand at local fishing
7 Relax, unwind and take in the beautiful scenery of Jomala

Food and Drink Scene of Jomala

Must-Try Dishes

  • Smoked Fish - A traditional dish in Åland, smoked fish is a must-try for seafood lovers.

  • Almond Cake - This delicious dessert is a popular traditional dessert in Åland.

  • Åland Pancakes - A delicious Nordic twist on the classic pancake, these are a local favourite in Åland.

Local Beverages

  • Åland Beer - Brewed locally in Åland, this beer is a local favourite.

  • Åland Apple Cider - Made from locally grown apples, this refreshing cider is a must-try.

Where to Stay in Jomala: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Pommern - Located in the heart of Mariehamn, Jomala’s neighbouring town, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and convenient access to local attractions.

  • Guesthouse Enigheten - This charming guesthouse offers traditional accommodations in the scenic countryside of Jomala.

  • Övernäsgården Guesthouse - This beautiful guesthouse is located in the stunning natural landscapes of Jomala and offers comfortable accommodations and a peaceful retreat.

What to Buy in Jomala: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Åland Wool Products - Made from locally sourced wool, these products make for a perfect souvenir and are a great way to support local artisans.

  • Åland Silver Jewelry - A popular local craft, beautifully crafted silver jewelry makes for a unique and special souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Jomala

Jomala is known for its unique mix of Nordic and Scandinavian cultures, with influences from local traditions, Germanic culture, and Swedish heritage. Visitors can enjoy local festivals and events celebrating the region’s rich history and culture, including the Åland Sea Days Festival, the Tall Ships Races and the Åland Harvest Festival.

Best Time to Visit Jomala

The best time to visit Jomala is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and pleasant for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jomala

Do:

  • Respect local traditions and customs

  • Try local foods and drinks

  • Explore the great outdoors

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave trash behind

  • Ignore safety guidelines

Safety and Health

Safety in Jomala

Jomala is generally a very safe destination for visitors, with low crime rates and a friendly local population. Visitors should take standard safety precautions, such as avoiding unlit areas at night and taking care of personal belongings in public areas.

Health in Jomala

Jomala has a good standard of healthcare, with modern hospitals and clinics located in nearby Mariehamn. Visitors should have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies to ensure they will receive prompt care and attention if needed.

Getting to Jomala: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Jomala

The nearest airport to Jomala is Mariehamn Airport, located just over 10 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Jomala

There are regular buses running to and from Jomala, with connections to other destinations on the Åland archipelago.

Other Options

Ferry services connect Åland with the mainland of Sweden, Finland, and Estonia, offering a beautiful and scenic way to travel to the island.

How to Get Around in Jomala

The best way to get around in Jomala is by bike or car. Bike rentals are available from local outfitters, and car rentals are available from Mariehamn and other nearby towns.

Where to Go Next from Jomala: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mariehamn - This charming coastal town is the capital of Åland and offers plenty of attractions and activities to explore.

  • Eckerö - A popular destination for fishing and boating, Eckerö is a beautiful coastal town just a short drive from Jomala.

  • Lemland - Explore the scenic landscapes and charming villages of Lemland, located just a short drive from Jomala.

Conclusion

Jomala is a hidden gem located in the heart of beautiful Åland. With its unique blend of local culture, natural beauty and charming small towns, Jomala is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a peaceful retreat and a chance to experience the Nordic way of life. Whether you’re here for the history, the great outdoors or the local cuisine, Jomala is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a desire to return.

St. Olof's Church from the 13th century St. Olof's Church from the 13th century