Stora Karlsö
A limestone island where seabirds breed, with thousands of common guillemots and razorbills on the cliffs. Day boat trips available.
Stora Karlsö is a limestone island off Gotland’s southwest coast, often called one of the oldest nature reserves in the world. Its cliffs host the Baltic’s largest breeding colonies of common guillemots and razorbills. The island is also known for its carpets of orchids and its unique sheep. In summer, boats leave from Klintehamn and reach the island in about 30–40 minutes. You can join a guided day tour and then have free time to hike, or stay overnight at the island’s hostel. Boat places are limited, so book ahead, and boats don’t run in strong winds.
Opening hours
About May–Aug; boats depart about 10:00, return 16:00
Nearby sights
- Lilla Karlsö
- Tofta Strand
- Högklint
- Hoburgsgubben
- Kneippbyn (Villa Villekulla)
- Almedalen
- Gotland Museum (Fornsalen)
- Kruttornet (Powder Tower)