Burgsvik: Sandstone, Nature and Sea

Burgsvik combines open landscapes with clear traces of its sandstone history and unique nature experiences. The village offers pleasant views of the sea to the north and an open landscape to the south. The northern seafront and the southern openness give the village different landscape perspectives. The open southern landscape is thus contrasted by the sea views on the northern side.

Moorland near Burgsvik

The Muskmyr nature reserve is located near Burgsvik, along the road between Burgsvik and Hoburgen, immediately north of Sundre Church. A nature trail just under 4 kilometres long runs through the moorland. The route follows a clockwise loop around Muskmyr, forming a continuous circuit around the moor.

There is also an accessible boardwalk with a picnic table to help visitors find their way around the nature reserve. The boardwalk provides a second type of path in the protected area, complementing the nature trail. The two facilities differ in their design: the nature trail runs for just under four kilometres clockwise around Muskmyr, while the boardwalk is accessible and has a picnic table.

Sandstone as Part of the Village’s History

Burgsvik’s history is closely linked to large-scale sandstone quarrying. This extraction began in Burgsvik in the 17th century. The sandstone quarried there was in demand for major castles and palaces in Denmark, northern Germany and Sweden. Its significance therefore extends beyond the village and connects Burgsvik with major castles and palaces in several countries.

In the mid-17th century, a workshop employing Dutch stonemasons was established in Burgsvik. The history of the village thus includes not only the extraction but also the processing of the material. The workshop expanded the quarrying operations to include stone processing. The timeline extends from the start of quarrying in the 17th century to the establishment of the workshop in the middle of the same century. The history of Burgsvik’s sandstone therefore encompasses extraction, workshop production and the skills of Dutch stonemasons. In the workshop, local sandstone met Dutch stonemasonry.

Crafts and Culture at Hantverkshuset

Hantverkshuset in Burgsvik is a cultural centre and meeting place. Pottery classes are offered there. In the “Prova på drejning” session, a pottery wheel and 300 grams of clay are provided. The activity combines a venue for culture and social interaction with a practical pursuit: the pottery wheel and clay are provided as part of the same session. Hantverkshuset complements Burgsvik’s historic sandstone industry with a craft offering.

Sauna by the Sea

Another special place is Burgsviks Havsbastu. It is a wood-fired sauna with a sun deck and steps leading directly into the sea. The combination of sauna, sun deck and steps into the sea brings together sauna bathing, time outdoors and a location right by the water.

For more village profiles, you can select Dalhem, Slite, Romakloster, Fårö, Kappelshamn, Stånga, Ronehamn and Lau.

For the overview of the wider travel area: Gotland.