Bengtskär Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know about Bengtskär, including the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more with our travel guide.


Introduction to Bengtskär

Bengtskär is an island situated in the Archipelago Sea of Finland Proper, in the West Coast of Finland. It is the southernmost inhabited island in Finland and is known for its historical lighthouse, which is the tallest in the Nordic countries. Bengtskär island has a rich maritime history, and it’s an ideal place for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers.

List of Places to Visit in Bengtskär

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bengtskär Lighthouse and Museum is the primary attraction on the island. The lighthouse was built in 1906, and it now serves as a museum that highlights the history of the island. Visitors can climb the lighthouse to get a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The museum showcases artifacts such as original lighthouse lenses, maps, and old photographs.

Natural Attractions of Bengtskär: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The island is surrounded by the vast blue sea and is home to a variety of bird species. There are several hiking trails on the island that provide stunning views of the Finnish Archipelago Sea. The forested trails lead to cliffs and rocky beaches, providing an idyllic setting for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bengtskär

Bengtskär has several hiking routes that provide an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the island. The trails are well-marked and range from easy to difficult. The popular routes include Rövarstigen, which is a challenging trail through the forest, and the coastal trail, which provides stunning views of the sea. Biking is also a popular activity, and visitors can rent bicycles on the island.

Best Things to Do in Bengtskär: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Bengtskär offers a range of activities and tours for visitors. The island has a sauna that visitors can rent to experience authentic Finnish sauna culture. There are also guided boat tours that take you around the island and show you its natural beauty. Fishing is another popular activity, and visitors can try their luck at catching salmon.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bengtskär

Day 1: Arrive at Bengtskär and check into your accommodation. Spend the day exploring the island and its natural beauty.

Day 2: Take a guided boat tour around the island and learn about its history and culture.

Day 3: Go hiking on one of the trails on the island and have a picnic lunch on one of the rocky beaches.

Day 4: Rent a bicycle and explore the island at your leisure.

Day 5: Experience authentic Finnish sauna culture by renting a sauna and relaxing.

Day 6: Try fishing and see if you can catch salmon.

Day 7: Depart from Bengtskär and head to your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Bengtskär

Must-Try Dishes

Bengtskär is known for its freshly caught seafood that is served in local restaurants. Some of the must-try dishes include smoked salmon, herring, and crayfish. The island has its own bakery where visitors can buy freshly baked bread and pastries.

Local Beverages

The island has its own brewery that produces a range of beers, including IPAs and stouts. Visitors can try these beers at the local bar and enjoy the stunning sea views.

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

There are several accommodation options on the island, including cottages, guesthouses, and hostels. Bengtskär Guest House and Lighthouse Cafe offers affordable accommodation with sea views.

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

Visitors can buy locally made souvenirs, including handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, and textiles. The island’s bakery also sells locally made jams and preserves.

Local Culture and Customs of Bengtskär

Bengtskär has a rich maritime history, and its culture is heavily influenced by the sea. The island has a Finnish-speaking population, and visitors can experience authentic Finnish culture by renting a sauna and trying local dishes and beverages.

Best Time to Visit Bengtskär

The best time to visit Bengtskär is from May to September when the weather is mild, and the island is buzzing with activities and events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bengtskär

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take care of the island’s natural beauty, and don’t litter.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather as it can be unpredictable.

Don’t:

  • Disturb the local wildlife.
  • Take anything from the island, including rocks and plants.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bengtskär

Bengtskär is a safe place to visit, but visitors should take basic safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Bengtskär

There are no medical facilities on the island, and visitors should bring any necessary medication with them.

Getting to Bengtskär: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach Bengtskär by boat from Kasnäs, which is around 50 kilometers away. Kasnäs can be reached by car, and there are several parking options available. There are also bus services from Helsinki to Kasnäs. The boat ride to Bengtskär takes around 2 hours.

Airports Near Bengtskär

The closest airport to Bengtskär is Turku Airport, which is around 150 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Bengtskär

The closest bus station to Bengtskär is Kasnäs Bus Station, which is around 50 kilometers away.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Bengtskär by private yacht or boat.

How to Get Around in Bengtskär

The island is small and can be easily explored on foot or by bicycle. There is also a luggage transport service available for visitors who need help with their bags.

Where to Go Next from Bengtskär: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore the nearby archipelago islands or head to cities like Turku or Helsinki for a city break.

Conclusion

Bengtskär is a unique island that offers a range of experiences for visitors. From its rich maritime history to its natural beauty and seafood, the island has something for everyone. Plan your trip, and experience the authentic Finnish culture and natural beauty of Bengtskär.

The lighthouse The lighthouse Rocks by Bengtskär Rocks by Bengtskär The connecting vessel at the jetty The connecting vessel at the jetty The lens system The lens system View from the lighthouse chapel View from the lighthouse chapel