Lake Bästeträsk
Lake Gotland's largest lake, important freshwater resource
Gotland’s largest lake, Bästeträsk attracts anglers and swimmers; its waterfront trails and birdlife make it a regular stop for island visitors exploring northern Gotland.
Lake Bästeträsk is a freshwater lake on the Swedish island of Gotland in Gotland County. It is the island’s largest inland lake and an important local freshwater habitat.
The shoreline and shallow waters attract birdwatchers and anglers; the lake’s open areas and reed margins support waterfowl and other wetland species. There are informal access points for walking along sections of the shore.
The lake is a natural coastal plain lake formed in the post-glacial landscape of Gotland and has been used locally for fishing and as a freshwater resource for nearby farms and settlements.
Geographically it lies in the northern part of Gotland, within Gotland County, surrounded by low limestone fields and farmland rather than mountainous terrain.
- Largest lake on Gotland: It is the largest freshwater lake on the island of Gotland and an important local site for birdlife.
How to Get to Lake Bästeträsk #
Gotland is reached by ferry from mainland Sweden (Oskarshamn or Nynäshamn) to Visby. From Visby, Bästeträsk is accessible by county roads and minor routes around the island; cycling or driving from Visby takes under an hour depending on stops.
Tips for Visiting Lake Bästeträsk #
- Gotland's roads are narrow and can be busy in summer - start early to secure parking at trailheads.
- Combine a lake visit with walks to nearby quarries and the island's limestone features for a fuller sense of the geology.
- Cycling is a popular and pleasant way to explore the area around the lake; rent a bike in Visby.
Best Time to Visit Lake Bästeträsk #
Best in summer for accessibility and outdoor activities; shoulder seasons suit quieter visits.
Weather & Climate near Lake Bästeträsk #
Lake Bästeträsk's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -3°C to 20°C. Moderate rainfall (524 mm/year).
January
January is freezing with highs of 1°C and lows of -3°C. Moderate rainfall (44 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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February
February is the coldest month with highs of 1°C and lows of -3°C. Moderate rainfall (30 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 3°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (35 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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April
April is cold with highs of 7°C and lows of 1°C. Moderate rainfall (30 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 5°C. The driest month with just 26 mm and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (35 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 13°C. The wettest month with 65 mm of rain and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 2°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (50 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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