Öland in Spring 2026
- Speyside Wildlife
- Jun 10
- 2 min read
By Roy Atkins
Our first spring visit to the delightful Swedish island of Öland proved to be a tremendous success. The weather was glorious throughout the week, making for a very enjoyable holiday, although such settled conditions can sometimes mean fewer migrant birds. Happily, Öland has so much more to offer in spring that there was never a shortage of wildlife to enjoy.
From the moment we arrived on the island, we were reminded just how varied Öland is, from limestone grasslands and ancient woodland to rich wetlands and an extensive coastline. Our comfortable guest house provided a wonderful base for the week, with Susanne and Stephan making us feel incredibly welcome and serving what must surely rank amongst the finest food we have enjoyed on any Speyside Wildlife holiday.
The birds certainly lived up to expectations. Montagu's Harriers were undoubtedly the stars of the trip, seen on most days and providing exceptional views, including memorable food-passing displays, while we enjoyed lunch in a friends' greenhouse overlooking the surrounding fields.
Other memorable sightings included Collared Flycatchers, Wood Warblers, Marsh Warblers, Slavonian and Red-necked Grebes, with brief but rewarding views of Red-breasted Flycatcher, Thrush Nightingale and Nightjar. Every day produced something different, as we explored this wonderfully varied island.
One particular highlight was our visit to the bird observatory near the southern lighthouse, where we enjoyed a fascinating behind-the-scenes tour. Seeing birds in the hand offered a completely different perspective, with Barred Warbler, Whitethroat, Lesser Whitethroat, a pair of Blackcaps, Garden Warbler and Chiffchaff all allowing close views before being safely released.
The flowers were equally spectacular. Military Orchids impressed everyone with their striking flower spikes, although many of the group declared the diminutive Burnt-tip Orchid their favourite. Alongside these we found Early Marsh, Fly, Green-winged, Elder-flowered and Bird's-nest Orchids, together with the elegant Sword-leaved Helleborine.
The famous limestone pavement was carpeted with flowers, including Öland Rockrose, Meadow Saxifrage, Sticky Catchfly, Alpine Catchfly, Fen Violet, Globularia and the last remaining Pasque Flowers. Woodland walks produced Solomon's Seal, Lily-of-the-Valley, May Lily and Herb Paris, while the coast was brightened by the large golden flowers of Spring Adonis.
There were plenty of memorable moments away from the target species too. The island's picturesque villages, sweeping coastal landscapes and historic lighthouse all added to the experience, while one particularly observant guest noticed a Mute Swan caring not only for its own cygnets but also two adopted Greylag Goose goslings, a fascinating sight that prompted much discussion amongst the group.
Our first spring tour to Öland exceeded expectations in every way. Outstanding wildlife, wonderful flowers, excellent food, superb accommodation and warm sunshine, combined to create a thoroughly enjoyable week. We are already looking forward to returning next spring.
If you would like to join our next trip to Öland, you’ll find further information and bookings here. Please email us or phone 01479 812498 if you have any queries.
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