Blå Jungfrun is an island national park in the Kalmar Sound, known for its granite bedrock, glacial features and stories of witchcraft. Visitors can look for birds and see the island’s forests, rock formations and the labyrinth called Trojeborg.

Most of the island’s bedrock is granite, alongside younger rock types that have interested researchers. The ice sheet gave the island its round shape and formed its giant’s kettles. South of the summit, deciduous woodland has varied plant life, rare lichens and unusual beetles. The park’s birdlife includes white-tailed eagles, rock pipits and black guillemots. Binoculars may help you spot them.

Stories of witches and sorcery surrounded the island as early as the 15th century. Visit Sweden says that Carl von Linné landed there in 1741, when Trojeborg was already visible in the island’s southern part.

The wind shelters are open while the park is staffed by guides, from late June to the end of August. A return trip can be delayed until the following day if the weather is unsuitable. Bring food for an extra day and your own water. You may cook on your own camping stove at a designated spot by the shelters, but grilling and open fires are not allowed.