Tofta

The beach resort just outside Visby

Tofta lies on the west coast, about twenty kilometres south of Visby - and in summer it's the island's liveliest beach resort. The reason is the Tofta Beach: a long, pale sand beach with dunes and shallow water that warms up quickly. Its closeness to the city makes it a classic day-trip destination; in peak season the beach club, kiosks and watersports rental keep things busy, while the edges of the beach are noticeably quieter.

What to expect

Beyond the beach, Tofta has more history to offer than first impressions suggest. In the woodland by the old fishing village of Gnisvärd, the beach's northern neighbour, lies Gotland's largest ship setting: a Bronze Age burial monument in the shape of a 45-metre-long ship made of around a hundred stones. A flat coastal path links Gnisvärd with Tofta beach - a good hour's walk through pines and dunes. In Gnisvärd itself, boat sheds cluster around a small harbour with a smokehouse.

Inland stands Tofta's medieval church, and the Viking Village (Vikingebyn) brings the Viking age to life with reconstructed houses and hands-on activities - a worthwhile stop for families, more in the guide Gotland with Kids. Halfway to Visby is also the water park Kneippbyn, home to Villa Villekulla.

Practicalities & getting there

By car, Tofta is about twenty minutes from Visby; bus route 10 towards Klintehamn takes around 25 minutes and stops near the beach. Accommodation options include the beach hotel, holiday homes and one of the island's largest campsites - book early during school holidays. As a base, Tofta combines a beach holiday with short trips to Visby and the west coast.