GOTLAND
SWEDEN'S BALTIC ISLE
A beguiling patchwork of old meadows, woodlands, fens and meres marked at regular intervals by the tall spires of Gothic churches gives Gotland's countryside a reassuringly permanent feel.
A beguiling patchwork of old meadows, woodlands, fens and meres marked at regular intervals by the tall spires of Gothic churches gives Gotland's countryside a reassuringly permanent feel. Limestone pavement hosts profuse shows of Bloody Cranesbill amongst which fly Apollo butterflies. Cranes call from boggy woodlands decorated with prolific stands of elegant Lady's Slipper Orchid. Gotland is famous for its Orchids. There's abundant stately Military Orchids and many species of Marsh Orchid, Fly Orchids with ten flowers a spike, tiny Lesser Twayblades, rare Spitzel's Orchid and diminutive Coralroot Orchid. Birdseye Primrose and German Asphodel fringe lakes over which hunt Harriers, Hobbies and White-tailed Eagles. On fantastic Stora Karlso we'll find ourselves right in the heart of a twelve-thousand pair breeding colony of Guillemots and Razorbills and off Gotland's peaceful headlands nest Barnacle Geese, Ruff and Avocets.
Northern Chequered Skipper and Woodland Browns frequent woodland rides where lurk intriguing Viking Stone Boats. Picture Stones carved with runes are everywhere and so too are Viking forts - well-preserved examples of the former we'll also see in Visby's Museum. Visby is Gotland's capital and was once one of Europe's most important medieval cities. The results of a goldenage of trade under the Hanseatic League can still be seen today in a colourfully painted town centre dating from this period. Gotland's peaceful orchid-filled countryside and its evident links to its past make the island a fascinating and entrancing destination.
INFORMATION
Focus
Flowers, Birds, Butterflies and Viking and Medieval Sites of Antiquity.
Leaders
Terry Underhill , Phil Benstead
Walking
Relaxed and easy. Up to three or four miles a day and always at a slow pace, perfectly suited to flower and butterfly photographers.
Included in the Price
All flights. All transport, meals and accommodation in Gotland. Services of your leaders. Please note: drinks, tips and items of a personal nature including insurance, are not included.
Group Size
The minimum is 5 and the maximum is 15. Only one leader will accompany a group of 6 or less.
Accommodation
We start with four nights in wooden built chalets at Pensionat Lovangen in the lovely village of Ljugarn just five minutes walk from the Baltic’s eastern shore. Each chalet room has a bedroom, kitchenette, shower/WC and living area, so there’s plenty of space! For the second half of the holiday we move to the Tofta Strandpensionat, a comfortable hotel set in a tranquil spot by a beach and a small nature reserve on the Western Baltic shore. All rooms on this holiday have en suite facilities.
Climate
Generally warm and sunny with some showers and occasionally more prolonged cooler wet weather.
How To Book
Download a booking form (or contact us and we will send one to you)from the Booking Information section. Complete and send to us. You will receive confirmation of your place and then a detailed information pack will be dispatched to you about twelve weeks before departure. Flower, bird and butterfly checklists are available.
