Much of the island of Öland has been designated a world heritage site by UNESCO in the form of the Stora Alvaret nature reserve. This reserve is home to a vast number of rare and endangered species due to the presence of an enormous limestone barren, which is the largest such formation in Europe. Route 136 is virtually the only spinal link allowing vehicle access to all parts of the Stora Alvaret.
The designation of Öland's island by UNESCO has led to the creation of the Stora Alvaret nature reserve, a world heritage site that encompasses much of the island. This reserve is home to an incredible variety of rare and endangered species, thanks in part to its distinctive limestone landscape, which dominates Europe. Route 136 provides the sole means of accessing all areas of the Stora Alvaret.