The island offers a plethora of hiking trails, best explored outside of the hottest summer months when the sun is ablaze. Enthusiasts may thoroughly enjoy hiking up the “Ftera” terrain, with 20 different climbing routes to choose from.

Purana Quila (Old Fort), a massive fortress with three gateways, is located on the ancient part of the city and it allegedly stands on the site of the legendary city of Indraprastha, mentioned in the Mahabharata Hindu text. The fort was completed by the ruler Sher Shah in the mid-16th century.

The historic forts of Al Jalali and Mirani date back to the 16th century, and (although closed for entry to the general public) define the cityscape of the Omani capital. The forts were formerly used as defence fortresses and were constructed by the Portuguese during the colonial period. Come at sundown to capture the best views.

In 1832, Russia began construction of the fortress of Bomarsund. Since Åland then constituted the westernmost part of Czarist Russia and had a location of strategic importance, Russia desired a strong military presence and an impressive fortress there. During the Crimean War, in 1854, an Anglo-French naval force attacked the fortress, which resulted in the Battle of Bomarsund. The fortress was demolished and today only ruins (and the Bomarsund Museum) serve testament to Russian presence and the grandiose plans once wielded for Åland. If you wish to find out more about this part of the struggle between the great powers during the Crimean War, visit Bomarsund, and watch the film “Bomarsund, vägen till fred” ("the road to peace").