Kobba Klintar
The old pilot station at the entrance to Mariehamn
Kobba Klintar is the historic pilot station at the entrance to Mariehamn and one of the best-known places in the Åland archipelago. For generations, the islands were a familiar sight for Ålanders returning home from the sea – a sign that home was close.
Today, the old pilot station is open to visitors and offers a glimpse into the history of pilotage and life on these small islands. Its location just outside Mariehamn also makes Kobba Klintar a natural destination for a shorter visit or as one of several stops on an island-hopping tour.
The History
Kobba Klintar became a pilot station in 1862, helping ships navigate safely into Mariehamn. The old pilot cabin from 1862 still remains, as does the later pilot house from 1910 with its old foghorn. The pilot station remained in operation until 1972.
For generations of Ålanders returning from sea, Kobba Klintar was also a familiar sign that home was close. This is why the islands are sometimes referred to as Åland’s own Statue of Liberty.
Kobba Klintar Today
By the end of the 1990s, the old pilot station had begun to deteriorate. Kobba Klintars Vänner was founded in 2002 to save and preserve the historic site.
Today, the association looks after Kobba Klintar and keeps the islands accessible to the public. Visitors are always welcome, and during the summer season the association runs a café and opens the historic buildings to visitors.
The distinctive pyramid-shaped beacon, known as the båk, can also be rented through Kobba Klintars Vänner for meetings, weddings and other gatherings.
Visit Kobba Klintar with Shipland
Kobba Klintar is a good place to get a sense of the historic side of the Åland archipelago. The old pilot station, its location at the entrance to Mariehamn and the shipping passing close by all help connect the history of the islands with life in the archipelago today.
Kobba Klintar is close to Mariehamn and works well both as a destination for a shorter visit and as one of several stops on an island-hopping tour. When visiting Kobba Klintar with Shipland, I have access to the historic buildings, and the visit normally includes a guided visit inside the old pilot station. Kobba Klintar is always one of the stops on Archipelago Explorer and can also be included in a Private Tour.