Discover Eksta: Coast, Nature and History

Eksta combines a distinctive coastal landscape with historical traces and special nature experiences. Those looking for a holiday apartment can compare different focuses here: protected landscapes, bird colonies, a historic fishing village, church architecture and regional farm products create a diverse picture of the area.

Coast, nature reserve and special plants

The Ekstakusten nature reserve covers a coastal stretch of around four kilometres. Kronvall, a historic fishing village, lies in the central section of this protected area. Immediately north of Kronvall, a small population of the protected plant sea holly grows. For nature enthusiasts, this combination of coastal scenery, local history and rare vegetation is reason enough to get to know Eksta more closely.

Kronvall used to be significantly larger than it is today. This historical change is just as much a part of the fishing village’s character as its location within the nature reserve. You can therefore include the village in your travel plans not only as a scenic destination, but also as an indication of the region’s earlier development.

Historical traces around Skansudd and the church

At Skansudd stands a defensive installation built in 1712–1713. The rampart made of gravel and sand is around 130 metres long, 4–6 metres wide and 1–1.5 metres high. Skansudd was named after the redoubt located there. These dimensions make the site a tangible historical monument, so you do not have to limit yourself to a mere place name.

The church of Eksta also offers an interesting architectural contrast. It was extensively altered after the Middle Ages. Its exterior therefore features neoclassical characteristics alongside clear medieval elements. Fred Pettersson’s Mekaniska verkstad is located near the church. During the first third of the 20th century, the workshop was one of the largest and most modern facilities of its kind in rural Gotland. Those wishing to combine nature and culture on holiday will find a range of themes to explore here.

Birdlife and island experiences

Large colonies of common guillemots and razorbills breed on Stora Karlsö, with thousands of pairs of each species. Guided tours are offered on the island. Ferries to Lilla Karlsö operate from Klintehamn. You can include these two island destinations as additional excursions in your travel plans if you would like to complement your stay with wildlife observation and guided experiences.

Regional products for your travel plans

The unattended farm shop at Käbbe Gård is also part of the local character. It is open around the clock every day and sells cider as well as other products grown on the farm and by other Gotland producers. Payment can be made via Swish or in cash.

Which accommodation suits your plans?

When looking for a holiday apartment in Eksta, it is worth deciding on your preferred focus for the trip. Would you mainly like to experience coastal landscapes and the nature reserve, are you interested in historic places and architecture, or should birdlife and the islands play a greater role? For a trip combining several interests, Eksta offers enough specific themes to choose from, allowing you to switch between them depending on your mood each day.

If you would like to compare other places for your trip to Gotland, you can find Ljugarn, Fårö, Väte, Ronehamn, Lärbro, Katthammarsvik, Slite and Sanda here.

For the higher-level travel overview: Gotland.