Kumlinge is a group of islands in the middle part of the Åland archipelago, with a population of about 320. Kumlinge consists of more than 800 islands, four of them inhabited. Businesses and places to visit are spread out on the four islands of Kumlinge, Seglinge, Enklinge and Snäckö. Small ferries go between the islands and to Kumlinge from Hummelvik and from Brändö.
The Kumlinge church is dedicated to the Saint Anne, mother of the Virgin Mary. The church was built of stone during the 14th century and is famous for the beautiful and unique limewash paintings in the vault of the church. These paintings date back to the 16th century. Inside the church there are several artifacts, including an early Gothic altarpiece and a font from the 13th century.
Sjölund's yard museum is found in the Kumlinge cultural centre where various old objects are exhibited. This is also a place for cultural events and concerts.
This yacht marina is found in one of the most beautiful bays in Kumlinge. Not only a marina is found here, but also accommodation in chalets, and the Kastören restaurant. A very nice destination for a bike excursion!
Limewash paintings in Kumlinge church
The only remaining aeronautical beacon of Åland stands on Kumlinge island. These beacons were constructed during the end of the 1930's to aid the nightly flight traffic between Stockholm and Helsinki until they were made obsolete by radio navigation. The flights carried post between the capitals at much greater speed than the steamboats before them.
The post between Sweden and Finland had been carried by sea through Åland since the 14th century and was conducted by "post peasants" who each had responsibility for part of the route. The post needed to be carried forward regardless of weather and many brave mail rowers have perished at sea or under the ice throughout the ages.
This small airfield was constructed in 1975 on Gunnarholm - unique in the archipelago. The 600 meter long strip is suitable for smaller private airplanes.
Kumlinge flygfyr
From Hummelvik in Vårdö ferries on the Northern Line (Norra Linjen) depart for Enklinge and Kumlinge, and continuing to Lappo and Brändö. Departures are reserved with Ålandstrafiken. Travelers with vehicles need to take special care with reservations and tickets. The views on this sea voyage are wonderful.
Note that no ferries go between Hummelvik and Snäckö, this is an error on Google Maps. There are also no more ferries between Snäckö and Överö or between Snäckö and Sottunga, since the regional government of Åland in 2025 implemented measures designed to crush the islanders.
In Kumlinge there are two hiking trails. The first begins by Kumlinge church and is split into one part of 3 km and one part of 3,4 km. This trail has three viewpoints and it is not uncommon to be able to spot elks and other animals.
The second trail is located in Seglinge with a length of about 7 km. It begins by the old smithy and continues through forests and over rocks to Delet beach. On the way you can see rock formations called "giant cauldrons", presumably created by the movement of water and ice during the ice age.
Seglinge is located in the southernmost part of Kumlinge. Here you’ll find a guest harbor, a shop, a short hiking trail, and a disc golf course. A small ferry runs from Snäckö in southern Kumlinge to Seglinge. The company Sagolik Service offers water taxis, which can come in handy here in the middle of the Åland archipelago.
