Puttes Camping in Åland – retro vibes and ruins
If you are planning camping in Åland, you can’t miss Puttes Camping. Nestled in the heart of one of Åland’s most captivating historical attractions, the Bomarsund Castle Ruins, Puttes Camping is a charming portal to the past.
Opened in 1976, this campsite is steeped in a retro spirit that has remained largely unchanged over the decades. If you’re seeking a luxurious glamping experience, this may not be your destination.
But if you’re a lover of history, simplicity, and natural beauty, Puttes Camping has an irresistible, nostalgic allure.
Arrival and first impressions
I arrived at Puttes Camping in early June, just before the summer rush. With only two other tents and a solitary camper in sight, the vast five-hectare grounds felt like my personal oasis. Choosing a spot to pitch my tent was a delightful dilemma. Naturally, I opted for a location near the sea.
The reception is housed in a little yellow building by the entrance to the campground. At 5 euros per tent, plus a modest 3 euros per person and an additional 2 euros for a car, this is arguably the most affordable camping spot in Åland. My stay cost a mere 10 euros—a bargain for such a prime location.
Exploring the grounds
The expansive layout of the campsite ensures plenty of space for everyone, also during busier times. However, there’s only one service building, so those camping on the periphery might face a bit of a trek to reach the facilities.
The service building itself is delightfully retro, offering all the essentials: toilets, showers, and a communal kitchen. Hot water comes at an additional cost—1 euro for a four-minute shower and 20 cents in the kitchen.
While I didn’t have coins on hand to test it, these modest fees are a small price to pay for the basics.
Below you can pictures of the services:
Other amenities include a rental sauna—a quintessentially Finnish experience that should be booked well in advance during peak season—and a laundry room.
Families will appreciate the children’s play area, although it is only a modest one, while communal barbecue spots near the service building and the beach provide opportunities for cooking your meal against a stunning sunset backdrop.
The adjacent guest marina, set among rugged cliffs, is another highlight, perfect for evening strolls and photography.
Café Furulundsgården
Next to the camping site is Café Furulundsgården, a fully licensed restaurant. Combining modern comfort with old-fashioned charm, the café features a spacious outdoor seating area that can accommodate up to 100 guests.
Whether you’re savouring a hearty meal or simply soaking up the atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to unwind.
Nature and activities
A small beach near the marina offers a refreshing spot for swimming, nestled at the base of a rocky bay. Nature enthusiasts will revel in the trails that weave through and around the campground.
A path leads to Notvarptornet, a defensive tower offering breathtaking views to the north. If you walk the trail to the other direction, it takes you to a hill with remnants of a second tower.
In 2022, the Bomarsund Visitor Centre opened in the area, offering a vivid look into the history of the fortress through videos and other engaging displays. It’s definitely worth a visit—the ruins come to life in a whole new way once you’ve learned about their past and seen the true scale of the construction efforts.
The old pilot building across the strait features also exhibition about the Bomarsund fortress, providing additional context to the ruins.
On the south side of the road, a sandy beach invites you to relax and soak up the sun when the weather is favourable. There are also bikes for rent.
Historical significance
The Bomarsund Castle Ruins are a short walk from the campground, making Puttes an ideal base for exploring this fascinating site.
The fortress, a grandiose Russian project, was never completed but offers a glimpse into its intended scale.
Wandering among the ruins, you can’t help but marvel at what might have been, had the English not thwarted Russian ambitions and destroyed the partially built structure.
Why choose Puttes Camping in Åland?
While Puttes Camping lacks the modern frills of more luxurious sites, its charm lies in its simplicity, affordability, and unparalleled location. The retro vibe, combined with its proximity to historical landmarks and natural beauty, makes it a unique destination for campers seeking an authentic and enriching experience.
Whether you’re here for a quiet retreat, a historical exploration, or a bit of both, Puttes Camping is well worth a couple of nights’ stay. Pack your tent, gather some coins for hot water, and immerse yourself in the beauty and rich history of Åland.
Practical information
Planning a stay at Puttes Camping in Åland? Here’s everything you need to know to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.
Reservations:
Tel: +358 45 7313 4177
Email: puttes.camping@aland.net
Location
You’ll find Puttes Camping at Bryggvägen 2, Bomarsund, 22530 Sund. Link to google maps
Facilities:
Campervan spaces: There are 50 spots available, with 20 offering electrical hookups for added convenience.
Cottages: If tents aren’t your thing, Puttes has 3 cosy cottages ready for a more comfortable stay.
Overnight cabins: 13 simple and affordable cabins for travellers seeking shelter under a roof.
Boat spaces: For those arriving by water, 30 boat spaces are available.
