3 Best Sights in Mariehamn and the Åland Islands, Finland

The Pommern is one of the last existing grain ships in the world and the only four-masted steel barque remaining anywhere. Once owned by the sailing fleet of the Mariehamn shipping magnate Gustaf Erikson, the ship carried wheat between Australia and England from 1923 to 1939. The ship has reopened after extensive restoration work at a new, more accessible dock just below the Åland Maritime Museum, where you'll find a fascinating collection of seafaring items and a great children's section. The Pommern includes interactive aspects that describe the hardships of life onboard the ship as well as an audio tale for children by Karin Erlandsson called Ruby's Voyage.

At this popular museum near Kastelholm, the buildings and outhouses from the 18th century show what farming life was like on the island 200 years ago. A traditional maypole, which is a typical feature of the Åland landscape, is erected here on Midsummer Eve.

Kastelholm is a wonderfully preserved medieval castle, with 14th-century origins, built by the Swedes to strengthen their presence on Åland. The nearby 18th-century Vita Björn prison is also worth a visit, and there is a treasure hunt and period costumes for the children, making this a great family destination. By turns, the castle has been a seat of Swedish royal bailiffs and a hunting lodge as well as the victim of damaging fires and sieges. Visits out of season can be made by arrangement.