Långe Jan

Långe Jan stands at the very southern tip of Öland, at "Ölands södra udde". At 42 metres, it's Sweden's tallest lighthouse and the landmark that marks the island's southern point from far out to sea. The tower stands where the narrow island tapers away and the open sea begins, surrounded by the Ottenby nature reserve, one of the country's best-known birdwatching areas.

197 steps above the Baltic

Anyone who makes the climb during the season goes up 197 steps to the viewing platform. From the top, the view stretches across the flat, treeless southern tip, the bird reserve and the open Baltic Sea, on a clear day with good visibility, far out over the water. The climb costs 50 SEK for adults and 30 SEK for children. In spring and autumn, entry is on the hour; in peak summer the tower is open continuously. Since the last entry ends in the late afternoon at the latest, a sunset climb isn't possible even in high summer.

Owner and bird observatory

The lighthouse is owned by the Swedish Maritime Administration (Sjöfartsverket). Day-to-day operations are run by the Ottenby bird observatory (BirdLife Sverige), admission income from the lighthouse goes towards their work. Right next door is the Naturum Ottenby, the nature reserve's visitor centre. It has been run since 1997 by SOF BirdLife Sverige on behalf of the Kalmar County Administrative Board, is free to enter, and hosts exhibitions and activities from Easter to All Saints' Day. During peak season, the Naturum is open daily from 10:30 to 17:00.

Visiting: the practicalities

• Season: early April to late October; closed in winter. The lighthouse also stays closed on Midsummer's Eve.
• Tickets: no advance booking needed. Pay at the lighthouse by Swish or card via the web shop, or at the Naturum with any payment method.
• Duration: an hour is enough for the lighthouse itself. With the Naturum and a walk out to the point, the southern tip fills a good half day.
• Parking: two large car parks at the southern tip, one at the point itself and one at Kungsgården. Only day parking is permitted within the nature reserve.

In the area

Långe Jan and the southern tip belong to the Ottenby nature reserve, well worth a visit for birdwatching in particular; more on that in the birdwatching guide. At the island's northern end stands its black-and-white sister lighthouse, Långe Erik, the two towers mark Öland's northern and southern tips. A few kilometres away lies the quiet seaside village of Grönhögen, with its harbour and limestone quarry, which combines well with a stop at the southern tip. For an overview of the island's landscapes, see the nature guide; general advice on getting there and planning your trip is in the trip planning guide.