Finland, Åland & Mariehamn

Special Status in the EU

The Åland Islands have had a special status in Europe since 1921. They are an autonomous, Swedish-speaking region of Finland. After two separate referendums and after Åland’s parliament gave its consent, Åland joined the EU in 1995, together with Finland, on the condition that Åland’s relationship with the EU would be regulated in a special protocol.

Demilitarized

The islands are demilitarized in the sense that no fortifications or permanent military structures are allowed in the area. They are neutralized, meaning that no war operations may take place there. The inhabitants of Åland have the right of domicile (regional citizenship), which, among other things, exempts them from military service and assures them of exclusive rights to own real estate.

Autonomy

In practice, Åland functions almost like an independent country. It has its own parliament (Lagting) with its own political parties and government (Landskapsregering). There are certain areas related to internal affairs in which Åland has the right to make its own decisions, such as education, health services, media, etc.

Åland has had its own flag since 1954. The province has been a member of the Nordic Council, in which all the Scandinavian countries are represented, since 1970.

Finland is famous for its 188,000 lakes and 30,000 islands and is sometimes called ‘The land of a thousand lakes’.

Finland is the sixth largest country in Europe in terms of geographic area (338,000 km2). Forest covers 68 per cent of its land area – the highest proportion of any country in the world. Its population is about 5.5 million. Finland’s capital city is Helsinki, which has a population of 613,000.

The Republic of Finland elects its president for a period of four years. Its official languages are Finnish and Swedish. Five per cent of the population are native Swedish-speakers. Swedish is mainly spoken along the coast.

Climate and the Four Seasons

Although Finland is the second northernmost country in the world (a quarter of its total area lies north of the Arctic Circle), its climate is milder than many other areas of the same latitude, partly because of the influence of the warm Gulf Stream.

Finland’s winter climate can be harsh. January and February are the coldest months, but provide all the excitement of winter sports. Temperatures of -20 degrees Celsius are not uncommon in the wintertime. The spring is long, light and cool. The summer months of June to August are mostly delightful, with temperatures of 15-30 degrees Celsius. The early autumn can be beautiful, with fiery bright yellow and red hues.

Light and Dark

It never gets completely dark during the summer and, in the far north, beyond the Arctic Circle, the sun does not set at all for about 73 days. During the dark winter period in the same region, the sun remains below the horizon for 51 days. However, the snow on the ground enhances the light of the moon and stars, and sometimes the northern lights paint the sky green, red and yellow.

The Western Harbour (Västra Hamnen) is the historical maritime heart of the city and the main port for large ferries.

A magnificent four-masted steel barque and one of the last sailing ships of its kind in the world. Visitors can go onboard for an immersive, audio-guided experience of life at sea.

Located right next to Pommern, this museum is often ranked as one of the best in Finland, showcasing the islands’ rich seafaring history – from Viking times to modern ferries. They even have one of the world’s only two authentic pirate flags on display!

A beautiful park area with a coastal promenade. Walk up the nearby hill, Badhusberget, for a fantastic view over the Western Harbour and the sea.

The heart of shopping, cafés, and restaurants. In the summer, it comes alive with terraces, food trucks, and kiosks.

Surrounded by key buildings like the City Hall (Stadshuset), the Gouvernment Building (Lagtinget/Självstyrelsegården), and the Åland Museum/Art Museum (two museums under one roof, offering cultural history and local art).

A charming cultural-historical area with traditional boat houses, workshops, and a picturesque maritime environment. You can see boat builders at work and browse the local handicraft shop SALT.

Located just offshore in the Eastern Harbour (accessible by a footbridge), this is a favourite spot for families. It features a sandy beach, a playground (with a pirate ship), and a small bird sanctuary where you can often see free-roaming peacocks.

The Nabben area is slightly north-east of the immediate centre (about a 20 to 30 minute walk from the Town Square) and is known for its natural features and relaxation.

Beach: A large, family-friendly, shallow sandy beach perfect for children. In summer, there’s usually a kiosk and a beach volleyball court.

Wetland: An award-winning, constructed wetland (reopened 2023) designed to clean water and promote biodiversity. There are wooden walkways (spångar) and information boards, making it a great place for nature observation, birdwatching, and a peaceful walk.