The Right of Public Access
Freedom to move around in nature, such as in the forest and on the
water, has been a public right in the Nordic countries since ancient
times. This right is called The Right of Public Access and is a benefit
and possibility that should be safeguarded. The essence of the right is
“Do not disturb and Do not destroy”. This means that you are personally
responsible for your actions in nature. Show good judgement and
remember that you’re visiting somebody else’s land.
Åland’s definition of the Right of Public Access is slightly more
restricted than in Sweden and the rest of Finland. This is because we
have so many visitors and our archipelago landscape is more susceptible
to damage.
You may freely travel around by foot or on bicycle, but avoid
private residence, jetties and cultivated areas. Remember to always
close gates behind you.
Using natural harbours for temporary mooring and a harbour of
refuge is permitted. We recommend guest harbours for overnight stays,
as most piers and jetties on Åland are private and not allowed for use
by visitors.
You may swim, row, sail, paddle and drive a motor boat on private
waters. However, official fairways should be used if possible, mainly
because there is a great risk to run aground outside the fairways. When
you travel by boat outside the fairways – in the local’s fishing
grounds – you should be especially careful not to damage fishing
tackle. Respect waterfowl and their ducklings by slowing down.
It’s prohibited to make a fire without the landowner’s permission.
The dry forests in Åland easily catch fire and a campfire may destroy
bedrock forever. It’s important to be careful and make sure that the
fire is properly extinguished before you leave.
You may bring a dog with you if it’s leashed. It’s prohibited by
law to let dogs run loose, in consideration of breeding waterfowl and
other wild animals. During their breeding season it’s also forbidden to
go ashore on some islands.
The fishing in Åland is regulated by a law about fishing. You must
first buy a fishing license for the fishing ground where you intend to
fish. The protection of breeding waterfowls prohibits fishing from the
shore 15.4–15.6.
You may temporarily stay in the countryside, but setting up a tent
or an overnight stay in a caravan or mobile home on somebody else’s
property requires permission from the landowner. We recommend camping
grounds, holiday cottages and guest houses for your stay.
Help us keep the nature clean! Take back everything you brought
with you or take it to the nearest rubbish bin. It is prohibited by law
to dump wastewater from boats into the sea.