If you prefer exploring untamed savannas over well-trodden paths during your vacation, the Vaasa region is the perfect wild(-ish) west to conquer.
The Kvarken Archipelago is Finland’s only Natural Heritage Site on the UNESCO World Heritage List. In the archipelago, the freshness of nature, the atmosphere of idyllic villages and the rising rocky landscape are present everywhere. You cannot find anything like it anywhere else!
You can reach most of the sights with a car or a boat. Other options to explore the archipelago are to cycle, to kayak, to hike
Start your visit to the archipelago from the World Heritage Gateway visitor centre, which is next to Replot Bridge. At the visitor centre, you can find tips on local attractions, hiking trails and events.
The municipalities along the coast incorporate centuries-old traditions into the daily life of people today. The enjoyment and energy derived from exercise, nature and crafts is the secret behind the happiness of the people who live in this region.
The outdoor exercise area has opportunities for hiking, roller skiing and golf. There is even a ski jumping hill! You can learn more about the region’s history at the municipality’s numerous museums. Did you know that Oravais in Vörå was the site of a decisive battle in the Finnish War in 1808?
The Meteorite Museum Meteorian in the Söderfjärden meteorite crater valley and the Stundars Museum and Cultural Centre are two must-see destinations.
Visitors to Malax can enjoy the famous “limppu” bread along with locally produced meat and fish delicacies. The life of a genuine archipelago village can be experienced on Bergö Island, and Åminne Folkpark offers dancing in the summer, while Åminne Holiday Village provides cabin accommodations. Did you know that the Kvarken Boat Museum is one of the largest functional boat museums in the Nordic countries?
The municipality has a long and rocky coastline on the Gulf of Bothnia. On three large islands—Bredskäret, Halsön, and Södra Björkön—you can find both extensive outdoor areas and dense recreational housing. At the Korsnäs Parsonage Museum and the Local Heritage Museum, you can take a journey back in time by a couple of centuries. Do you already have a Korsnäs wool sweater in your wardrobe?
In addition to tomatoes and other local foods, Närpes offers much more to explore, such as the unique row of red-painted church barns and the Öjskog Park heritage museum area. Did you know that you don’t need to fly to the jungle to taste different flavors? At Linds Kök, a greenhouse restaurant located along Highway 8 in Närpes, you can enjoy new culinary experiences and smell the herbs under tropical fruit trees.
Life is good on the plains of Ostrobothnia. The region’s vibrant municipalities welcome visitors with open arms. There are many things to experience along the way. Choose your preferred mode of transport and start your adventure!
Kyrönjoki, one of Finland’s most significant river areas, offers stunning settings for nature, culture, and history enthusiasts. This route takes you through the municipalities and villages located along the Kyrönjoki River, showcasing their best attractions and experiences.”
Isokyrö is known for its historical sites, such as the old stone church and the Napue Battle Memorial. Don’t forget to visit Kyrö Distillery, which has gained international fame for its high-quality beverages. The Kalliojärvi entertainment center also offers leisure activities. Did you know that in Orisberg, Isokyrö, you can find Finland’s oldest artificial lake? And on the shores of the lake, you’ll find the Orisberg holiday and conference center, the old ironworks church, a bell tower, and a summer café.”
In the skilled hands of the people of Vähäkyrö, ceramics, bread, sausages, and traditional tin products are created. The beautifully preserved rural landscape with its upright heritage buildings is plentiful along the riverside to admire.
Vähäkyrö’s magnificent attractions on the map – Giant’s footsteps, historical sites, and nature present. Discover the roots of Vähäkyrö through history and stories.”
Laihia is not actually located by the Kyrönjoki River, but it might be worth reminding that it is not just a legend but a real place! The village also pokes fun at its own frugality, and there is even a museum dedicated to the theme, as well as a whole week dedicated to it in late summer. Wouldn’t something less have been enough?”
Before reaching the coastline, you will pass through the river villages of Korsholm: Anixor, Martois, Miekka, Staversby, Veikars, and Voitby, as well as the clusters of houses Båskas, Skatila, and Torrvik. All of the river villages are located along the Kyro River, making the area naturally beautiful. Nearby, there are waters, rolling grain fields, and deep, moss-covered forests.
At the Visitor Center you can hear the stories of Kyrö on Saturday distillery tours, taste our delicious rye products at tastings.
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The Tottesund Mansion can be booked for group. There are also public events and close by you find a nature trail.
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Nowadays, the Klemets Houses is an old homestead museum. In the summer café you can buy products from local entrepreneurs and crafters.
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At Berny’s, you'll find a restaurant with a terrace, a café, private dining room, and a sauna area complete with hot tubs, as well as a gaze
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Experience the Kvarken Archipelago World Heritage in a new way and play the escape game at the World Heritage Gateway Visitor Centre.
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When you want to be present and unleashed, throw a party, organize a customer event or a meeting, or spend the night in a glasshouse.
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