Kastelholm

We set off motoring with the sun shining.
We passed through the smallest of canals, just 0.2nm, (Lemströms Kanal) with the hourly opening bridge ready for the rush hour - just 2 boats going through each end. This opened into Lumparn Bay (5.5 nm x 4.5nm)
The north easterly winds were building as we headed into the heart of Åland for shelter tonight. Mooring up here with bow hook up on the buoy and stern to was a bit of a challenge with the wind and protecting the rudder and prop from Whispers desire to swing in the wind.

Once ashore we had fun exploring the medieval castle, one of only five surviving Finnish medieval fortresses .First constructed in the 1380s, Kastelholm Castle was a military and administrative centre for the region, which then formed part of the Swedish Empire. Successive Swedish and Danish governors continued to maintain and expand Kastelholm Castle over the next two hundred years and the castle was briefly home to Swedish King Gustav I, before he became the monarch.
Kastelholm Castle later lost its position as the administrative centre of the region and in 1745 a fire devastated the structure.
Since the early 20th century, the site was transformed into a museum.
We were fascinated by the Vita Björn (White Bear) prison which was built next to the castle in 1784. The prison was in use for almost two centuries - last in use in 1975 !
Also next to the castle is the Jan Karlsgården whuch is an outdoor museum consisting of several old farm buildings that have been transported here from different parts of Åland which recreates 19th century life in the region.
The whole setting was a step back in time. The magnificent midsummer pole still beautifully adorned surrounded by granary, boat house, farmhouses and stabling for ox and horses . Gorgeous yet simple boundary fencing to keep the grey fleecy Åland sheep from straying. I was lucky enough to find the exquisite wild orchids .

Back at the harbour we enjoyed a lovely meal in the giant glass house at the watersedge with all the other Fin's sheltering from the breeze. We had an evening stoll and watched a young group playing Frisby golf - quite a challenge with so many trees to navigate!

We had such a great day and it was such a well organised harbour with very welcoming staff with good facilities.Read more