Birdwatching in southeastern Öland
Stay in the bird kingdom at Stenåsa
Plan your visit according to the season
- Plan your visit according to the season
April–May: Experience the intense spring migration and the arrival of the first waders. - Autumn (September–October): Witness the enormous numbers of geese, birds of prey, and small birds moving south. This is when chances for rarities are at their greatest!
- Winter: Behold sea eagles and the characteristic winter visitors that linger in the open landscape.
- Book your accommodation for the birdwatching season at Stenåsa Stugby & Camping today and secure your spot in the heart of Öland's bird paradise!
Why choose Stenåsa for your birding trip?
Southeastern Öland is known as one of Sweden's absolute best areas for birdwatching. In Stenåsa, you live right next to the famous coastal meadows where waders, geese, and birds of prey flock during migration periods. From here, you are close to both the southern peninsulas and the magical Alvar.
A home among rare species
When you stay with us at Stenåsa Stugby & Camping, you often don't need to go any further than the campsite's beach to make exciting observations. During spring and autumn, the air is filled with migrating birds, and rarities often rest in the scrub around the cottages.
- Proximity to Ottenby: Just a short drive south takes you to Ottenby Bird Observatory, one of Europe's foremost locations for bird research and observation.
- Meadowlands and The Alvar: We are perfectly situated between the rich riverside meadows by the Baltic Sea and the barren Great Alvar, where you can see everything from sea eagles to marsh harriers and yellowhammers.
- On-site bird shop: The grounds feature a well-stocked shop specialising in binoculars, spotting scopes, and literature – perfect if you need to upgrade your equipment during your stay.
- Comfortable accommodation for ornithologists
We understand that birdwatchers have special needs. The hobby often involves early mornings and long days out in the field. With us, you can choose between: - Self-catering cottages: For those who want to be independent and have plenty of space for equipment.
- Camping & Pitches: Stay in your own motorhome or caravan with a view of the fields where the birds thrive best.
- Calm environment: After a day with the spotting scope, you can relax in a quiet and peaceful environment, surrounded by the unique nature of Öland.
Can't find the answer you're looking for?
Please get in touch with us, we'll be happy to help.
What bird species can be seen directly from the campsite?
Thanks to our location by the salt marshes, you can see a variety of waders, ducks, and geese directly from the beach. Sea eagles are seen daily year-round, and during the migration periods, rarities are common in the thickets around the cottages. The adjacent meadows are home to breeding species such as the redshank and lapwing.
How far is it from Stenåsa to Ottenby Bird Observatory?
It takes approximately 25–30 minutes by car (approx. 35 km) from Stenåsa Stugby & Camping to Ottenby on the southern tip of Öland. This makes Stenåsa a perfect base for those who want to stay in a quiet location but still be close to one of Sweden's premier birding sites.
The best time for birdwatching in Öland is during the spring and autumn migration seasons.
Birdwatching is fantastic all year round, but the highlights are the spring migration in April–May and the autumn migration from the end of August to October. During autumn, there's the greatest chance of seeing rare species such as the Bluethroat, Taiga Flycatcher, or exciting birds of prey.
Is there a shop for binoculars and equipment nearby?
Yes, we have the unique advantage that the Nature Bookshop (the Swedish Ornithological Society's shop) is located right at the entrance to the campsite. There you will find one of the market's widest selections of binoculars, spotting scopes, tripods, and bird books.
Is the accommodation suitable for large groups of birdwatchers?
Absolutely! We have extensive experience hosting both smaller groups of friends and larger birding clubs. Our self-catering cottages are very popular with groups who want to stay together and have the opportunity to prepare their own meals after long days out in the field.
Are there guided birdwatching tours in the area?
Excursions and guided tours are often organised on southern Öland, especially during Bird Day and other events. We recommend looking at "The Bird Guide for Öland" or contacting local guides via Naturbokhandeln for current tours.