No one goes to Gotland to shop. But, once here, you'll find some pleasant surprises if you're in the mood to buy. The most memorable goods are produced on the island, usually by individual craftspeople working in highly detailed, small-scale productions. One fave store at which you can find such products is Yllet, St. Hansgatan 19, Visby (tel. 0498/21-40-44), where clothing made from wool sheared from local sheep is sold in the form of sweaters, scarves, hats, gloves, coats, and other winter wear for men, women, and children. We've found that goods here tend to be natural and soft, deriving from the untinted, unbleached fibers originally produced by the sheep themselves. Also, don't overlook the gift shop that's showcased within the island's historical museum, Gotlands Fornsal, Strandgatan 14, Visby (tel. 0498/29-27-00), where reproductions of some of the museum's art objects are for sale, as well as handicrafts and textiles made on the island. It's open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm.
As Gotland is home to highly skilled, independent artists, many of whom mostly work out of their own houses or studios, ceramics, textiles, woodcarvings, or examples of metalwork are also on offer. Their merchandise tends to be marketed by cooperatives -- loosely organized networks that publicize and display the works of artists. The artists' work is judged by a panel that decides whether their products are qualified to represent the local art and handicraft scene. Objects are displayed and can be purchased at Galerie Kvinnfolki, Donnersplats 4 (tel. 0498/21-00-51). Kvinnfolki limits its merchandise to items crafted by women, which includes jam made from local berries, textiles, children's clothing, and a line of cosmetics made on the island from all-natural oils, emollients, and pigments.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
