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Stora Karlsö and Lilla Karlsö (Swedish:"Large" and "Small" "Island of Carl", respectively) are two islands and natural reserves west of the Swedish island Gotland in the Baltic Sea. Karlsöarna are their collective (definite plural) name. Stora Karlsö one of the oldest protected natural areas in the world, second only to Yellowstone National Park. The islands are also renowned for their rich birdlife.
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One of the few artificial sights on Lilla Karlsö is an exhibition with different fossils.
Inaugurated in 1966, this museum deals with the local geological and human history, as well as the local flora and fauna.
Built in 1887 from rocks which were quarried from Stora Karlsö. It was automated in 1974, and is today listed. Those who stay on the island over night may also get a guided tour of the lighthouse.
They always has vegetarian options. In addition to the restaurant there is also an adjoined cafe and kiosk.
The Lighthouse Village
Offer doubles and quadruples. The old houses surrounding the lighthouse, and rooms in the lighthouse itself, can be rented. There is a WC, shower and kitchen on the site, perhaps making it the more luxurious lodging alternative on the island.
Lilla Karlsön Beach Hut
A small unmanned beach hut. There are basic cooking utilities by the cabin. There is however no serving on the island so make sure that you bring enough provisions yourself.
The Beach House
Offer doubles and quadruples. A newly constructed house, constructed in a traditional Gotland post-and-plank technique. There is a WC, shower and kitchen in connection to the rooms.
The Hostel
There are hostel lodgings scattered around Stora Karlsö, in Norderhamn, Hien and Bergshyddan. It was named hostel of the year in 2003 by the Swedish Tourist Association. Sheets must be brought or rented for an additional fee.
There is a kiosk by the restaurant in Norderhamn. They sell ice cream, candy, soda, books, maps souvenirs and the like. Note however that they, or anyone else on the islands for that matter, do not sell any groceries.
During summer the islands can be reached by transportation boats from Klintehamn on the nearby Gotland mainland.se. The ticket is 355 kr per person, which also includes a guided tour on the island.
Read in the guideYou will have to get by on foot, but considering that the largest island has a diameter of no more than 2 km, there will be little need for any additional means of transportation.
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