National Parks in the Coast and Archipelago

Take a deep breath and enjoy the sea breeze! The optimal time to visit the national parks of the Coast and Archipelago of Finland is during the summer when the weather is at its finest, and transportation, as well as other services, are available.

There are more than 50,000 beautiful islands scattered across the sea, so the area is best explored by boat. Yet, there are plenty of places to visit on land, too. Perhaps you want to visit the vibrant artisan villages or stay overnight at a lighthouse hotel? Unless you are traveling by your own or hired boat, make sure to schedule ferry service or boat taxis in advance. Unfortunately, there are no services available in the area, in case you have mobility difficulties.

The breathtakingly beautiful Archipelago Sea, off Southwestern Finland, has more islands than any other archipelago. The landscape in the Archipelago National Park varies from larger islands with rural meadows and lively villages to desolate rocky isles.

You can get to the main islands by scheduled ferry services that operate all year round. A good idea in the summertime is to roam around islands on a rental bike and stop over for a refreshing dip in the sea.

Bothnian Bay National Park is a fantastic summer destination, particularly if you are into boating or hiking. Wander off-trail and pick some berries! You are allowed to pick sea-buckthorn (Hippophaë rhamnoides) berries from 20th August onwards, and if you are lucky, you might also find arctic brambles (Rubus arcticus). In case you are interested in the history of fishing and maritime culture, visit the Selkä-Sarvi fishing base from the 16th century.

As some of Finland's most pristine marine waters, the Bothnian Sea invites divers to discover the underwater flora and fauna in the area. A great way to explore The Bothnian Sea National Park and its remote islands is through day trips and weekend excursions.  In case you have mobility difficulties, there are suitable observation platforms on the Preiviikinlahti Bay in Pori.

If you enjoy fishing or birdwatching, the Gulf of Finland National Park is a dream come true. The best way to explore the park is by boat.

If you prefer cultural activities, there is also a 1.6-km-long cultural heritage nature trail around Mustaviiri Island. For those interested in war history, there is a fortification from the days of the Continuation War (1941-1944) on Ulko-Tammio Island. The hardest thing might be choosing where to go!

The national park of Ekenäs Archipelago is the perfect summer destination for all fans of the Baltic Sea and rugged nature. Enjoy the beautiful scenery canoeing or go underwater for a dive. Please note that getting to the National Park is only possible by boat (own or a taxi boat).

Kauhaneva-Pohjankangas National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise in the springtime. Visit the internationally significant mire Kauhaneva and climb up to a birdwatching tower. From there you can listen and observe the cranes, whooper swans, gulls, and waders making a cacophony of sounds in the spring months. At other times of the year, you get to enjoy the tranquility of the wetland wilderness, as there is nothing but silence in the mire.

Kurjenrahka National Park is within easy reach of Turku. Take a detour from the hustle and bustle of the city, and head towards the forests and marshes of Kurjenrahka for a day trip. The park is excellent for hiking, and there are several marked trails (1–6 km) that you can combine into longer routes. The mires are home to wild flora and fauna, including the majestic long-legged cranes, curious woodland owls, and magical cotton grass. In the wintertime, enjoy the tranquility of the snow-covered marshes on ski trails.

It is no wonder the Lauhanvuori region is sometimes called the Lapland of Western Finland. Walk up to the top of Lauhanvuori Hill and climb the viewing tower to admire the breathtaking panoramic views across wooded hillsides, all the way to the coast. Thanks to its topography, Lauhanvuori National Park is an excellent destination also in the winter, as the park generally has snow even when the surrounding areas do not. The cross-country skiing trails (3 km, 5 km, or 10 km) are well maintained and run through the pine forests. Alternatively, opt for the snowshoes and enjoy the beauty of the pristine nature off the path.

If you want to encounter the national bird of Finland – the Whooper Swan – head to the Puurijärvi-Isosuo National Park in the springtime and take binoculars. Lake Puurijärvi is an important stopping place for migrating water birds, such as geese and swans. In the spring you might get to see more than 400 Whooper Swans together with hundreds of Bean Geese at once. Get the most impressive views from the bird-watching tower on Kärjenkallio Rock. At 18 metres it is one of the biggest in the Nordics, assured to deliver scenic views over the lake and its surroundings.

Teijo National Park is a diverse nature destination neighbouring lively seaside villages. Start your grand day outdoors by Teijo Nature Center’s Natura Viva hub. If you are travelling with kids, go for a fixed 2-3 km long orienteering trail in the environs of lake Matildanjärvi. Alternatively, explore the blue waters by renting a SUP board, or if you are travelling with a group, participate in an organized trip for catching freshwater crayfish. Make sure to save some time also for visiting the charming microbreweries, cafés, and small handicraft shops nearby.

The serene Valkmusa National Park by the River Kymijoki is known for its extensive natural open bogs that have a variety of bird and butterfly species. This nature reserve with pristine mire landscape is suitable for visitors of all ages year-round. The park, however, is at its liveliest in the spring and summer when the soundscape is filled with birdsong. Climb into a nature tower to observe the wetland’s feathered creatures. Look out for the majestic ospreys soaring over the bogs of Valkmusa.