History

The Bondestugan Project – a unique collaboration between agriculture and tourism

In 2000, GotlandsResor, LRF Gotland and local Gotland farmers began working together in a unique partnership between agriculture and tourism on Gotland. The idea was to build and rent out high-quality holiday cottages to improve the standard of holiday accommodation on the island. Together, they developed several cottage designs known as “Bondestugor”, inspired by Gotland’s local traditions and architecture. Farmers build the cottages on their own land, using materials from their own forests wherever possible and furnishings from local Gotland businesses.

The Bondestugan Association

Through the Bondestugan economic association, the project continues to develop more Bondestugan cottages across Gotland. By increasing the number of attractive holiday cottages around the island, we aim to support rural development and encourage activities and services in local communities. Our goal is to keep Gotland’s countryside thriving all year round!

Agreements

The concept is based on farmers building holiday cottages on their own land, using architect-designed models inspired by traditional wooden or stone houses. Using local materials, such as timber or stone, is a natural part of the building process. The cottages are designed to blend in with Gotland’s natural landscape. Furniture can often be purchased collectively.

Many international guests

Many years on, we can say that the project has been very successful and has brought many new visitors to Gotland’s countryside. Visitors from Sweden and abroad have fallen in love with the beautiful Bondestugan cottages, returning to Gotland year after year and booking their favourite cottage again.

The project continues

Bondestugan cottages can be found in many locations across Gotland. Since the project began, GotlandsResor has been responsible for arranging accommodation for guests. Since 2015, however, the entire Bondestugan project has been managed by the cottage hosts themselves through their joint association.

Contact Bondestugan

If you are interested in working with us, have ideas to share or have any questions, please feel free to email Cecilia Hammander at info@bondestugan.se. You can also call her on +46 73 500 04 14.