S:t Olofsholm, Nature reserve in Hellvi, Sweden
S:t Olofsholm is a nature reserve on the eastern coast of Gotland featuring limestone rock formations called rauks. Approximately 15 of these stone towers rise from the landscape and some reach considerable heights.
The site is connected to Norwegian King Olof Haraldson who arrived around 1029 and influenced the spread of Christianity to Gotland. In the early 1600s a major lime kiln was built here, which shaped the region's economic growth.
The chapel ruins date from medieval times and were dedicated to Saint Olof. Today the three remaining walls stand as reminders of the religious history rooted in this location.
The reserve can be explored on foot with parking available near the entrance area for visitors. The paths are straightforward to navigate and lead through the rocky coastal landscape with good views of the limestone formations.
The site was a major production center for lime, a material that powered medieval and later economic activity across Sweden. The link between religious history and industrial craft at this location often surprises visitors who expect only natural landscape.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
