Along Gotland's rugged coastline, few sights are as memorable as the raukar — the ancient limestone sea stacks that rise dramatically from the shoreline. At Lickershamn, a quiet harbour village on the northwest coast of the island, you will find Jungfrun ("the Maiden"), one of the most celebrated raukar on all of Gotland. If you are planning a trip to the island and want to experience its most distinctive natural scenery, Lickershamn belongs on your itinerary.
What Are Raukar and Why Is Jungfrun Special?
Raukar are pillars and formations of limestone that were shaped over millions of years by the sea. As softer rock eroded away, harder limestone columns were left standing — some reaching considerable heights, others taking on remarkable sculptural silhouettes. Gotland's coastline, stretching approximately 800 kilometres including the island of Faaro, is dotted with these formations, and they have long been one of the island's most iconic natural attractions.
Jungfrun at Lickershamn is locally regarded as one of the tallest and most visually striking raukar on Gotland. Its slender, towering form rising directly from the coastal landscape has made it a favourite subject for photographers and a rewarding destination for walkers exploring the northwest of the island.
Getting to Lickershamn
Lickershamn is located on the northwest coast of Gotland, within driving distance of Visby, the island's capital on the west coast. Most visitors arrive by car, and the drive from Visby takes you through Gotland's characteristic rural landscape of open farmland, limestone outcrops and traditional buildings. The area feels genuinely quiet and unspoiled, particularly outside the peak summer months.
Public transport connections to Lickershamn may be limited, so it is worth checking local bus routes before you travel. If you are based in Visby without a car, consider hiring a vehicle or looking into available local transport options.
What to Do at Lickershamn
The main draw is the coastal walk that leads you along the shoreline to Jungfrun itself. The path passes other smaller raukar along the way, giving a real sense of how these formations cluster in certain stretches of Gotland's coast. The area is particularly beautiful in the long light of a Gotland summer evening.
- Walk the coastal path to view Jungfrun and the surrounding raukar up close.
- Bring a camera — the formations are most atmospheric in morning or evening light.
- Explore the small harbour at Lickershamn, which has a relaxed character typical of Gotland's quieter fishing villages.
- Combine with other stops on the northwest coast for a rewarding day of exploration beyond the main tourist routes.
Facilities in the area are modest. It is worth bringing water and snacks, and checking locally about seasonal services before you visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lickershamn worth visiting if I have already seen the raukar at Faaro?A: Yes. While Faaro's raukar at Langhammars are justly famous, Jungfrun at Lickershamn has its own distinct character and is often less crowded. Gotland's raukar vary considerably in shape and setting, so visiting more than one site gives you a much richer experience of this unique natural phenomenon.
Q: Can I visit Lickershamn as a day trip from Visby?A: Yes, a day trip is very manageable. The drive from Visby is straightforward, and combining Lickershamn with other points of interest along the northwest coast makes for a full and varied day out. Allow plenty of time to walk the coastal path at a relaxed pace.