The Mightiest Ruin in the Nordics
Borgholms slottsruin is a dramatic castle ruin perched on a hill just a short walk from the house — about 1 km on foot or 2-3 km by road. With over 900 years of history, it is often called “the mightiest ruin in the Nordic countries” and is one of Öland’s most visited landmarks.
The castle began as a defensive tower in the 12th century and was rebuilt several times — from medieval fortress to Renaissance castle to a magnificent Baroque palace under King Karl X Gustav in the mid-1600s. After losing its strategic importance when peace with Denmark held, the castle slowly fell into disuse. A devastating fire in 1806 left only the massive stone walls standing, creating the hauntingly beautiful ruin you see today.
What to See
Wander through roofless halls, climb staircases, and look out through empty window frames across the Kalmar Strait and Stora Alvaret. The foundations of the original medieval tower are visible in the courtyard.
Inside the entrance building, the permanent exhibition “Uppgång & Fall” (Rise & Fall) tells the castle’s story through excavation finds, scale models, and tales of royals, pirates, and wars. In summer, “Barnens Slott” (Children’s Castle) offers knight school, shield painting, and bow & arrow for ages 4-12, included in the ticket.
The castle courtyard also hosts major summer concerts — the annual Victoria Concert on Crown Princess Victoria’s birthday (13-14 July) and acts like Veronica Maggio and Miss Li.
Practical Details
- Distance from the house: ~1 km walk, 2-3 km by car
- Address: Sollidenvägen 5, 387 94 Borgholm
- Season: Late March through early November
Opening Hours (2026)
| Period | Hours |
|---|---|
| 28 Mar - 30 Apr | 10:00-16:00 |
| 1 May - 31 Aug | 10:00-18:00 |
| 1 - 30 Sep | 10:00-17:00 |
| 1 Oct - 1 Nov | 10:00-16:00 |
Prices (2026)
| Low season (Mar-Jun, Aug-Nov) | High season (22 Jun - 8 Aug) | |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (18+) | 140 SEK | 150 SEK |
| Senior | 130 SEK | 130 SEK |
| Youth (12-17) | 90 SEK | 90 SEK |
| Children (5-11) | 45 SEK | 90 SEK |
| Under 5 | Free | Free |
Annual pass available for 250 SEK. Card payments only (no cash).
Good to Know
- Plan for 1-2 hours. Longer if you catch a guided tour or the kids dive into the Children’s Castle.
- Dogs welcome on leash — water station outside the entrance.
- Picnics allowed. Smoke-free facility.
- Partially wheelchair accessible (ground floors and courtyard, but upper levels require stairs).
- Guided tours available in Swedish and English (group tours from 750 SEK + admission).
The castle is right next to Solliden Palace — you can easily visit both in the same outing.
Website: borgholmsslott.se