Sanda: Church, Railway Path and Beach

When choosing a hotel in Sanda, your interests can make all the difference: the church brings together several historical periods, a walking trail follows the old railway embankment, and Vivesholm combines castle ruins with a nature reserve. Björkhaga Beach and the parish’s horse-riding opportunities also offer their own attractions. You can tailor your stay to culture, outdoor activities or time at the beach.

The church and local history

Several building phases can be distinguished at Sanda Church. Stone frieze slabs dating from around 1030 to 1070 AD are set into the façade. The tower is the oldest part of the church and was built in the 13th century; the nave features wall paintings from around 1300. The frieze slabs are therefore significantly older than the tower and paintings. Anyone interested in architecture will find several specific historical points of interest in this one building.

There is evidence of local history beyond the church, too. A total of eleven picture stones have been found in Sanda parish, apparently spanning the entire period of the picture-stone tradition. In August 2001, the Petarve water saw and sawmill farmstead were designated listed buildings. The Kovik Fishing Museum preserves part of the fishing culture from the pre-motorisation era. Together, these places offer a range of themes: picture stones, architectural history and fishing.

Walking trail and railway museums

The 3.5-kilometre walking trail from Sanda to Tjuls follows the old railway embankment from Sanda station to Tjuls station. Its stated length is a useful guide for planning your day. Sanda station house is home to a museum dedicated to Lars Gullin. He was born there, and an exhibition presents his life and music. Tjuls station is a railway museum. The two museums focus on different subjects: Sanda on Lars Gullin’s life and music, and Tjuls on the railway.

Vivesholm: castle ruins and nature reserve

The remains of a castle built by Duke Erik in 1396 have been preserved on Vivesholm. Located in Sanda parish, Vivesholm is a nature reserve of about 100 hectares, with a diverse bird population and rare plants. Here, natural and cultural heritage come together. The castle is about 500 metres from the Vivesholm car park. A gravel path leads to the information board.

Swimming and horse riding in Sanda parish

Björkhaga bathing beach is in a small bay in Sanda parish and is about 200 metres long. The beach slopes gently, and the sandy bottom has occasional stones. There is also an accessible bathing jetty at the beach. As seasonal conditions can vary and facilities may change, check the current conditions and the jetty’s status before your visit.

If you are interested in horses, Sanda parish has several horse farms with indoor riding arenas, as well as a riding school offering lessons. Lesson arrangements may change, so check the specific options in advance.

Discover more destinations: Hemse, Tingstäde, Eksta, Hejde, Romakloster, Kappelshamn, Fröjel, Burgsvik

For the overview of the wider destination: Gotland.