Through Southern Finland
The total length of the route traversing southern Finland is 360 km. Setting off along the Ox Road, the route leads the cyclist through the rolling countryside of southern Finland.
Wildlife can be further explored at the Häme Visitor Centre, and at the nearby Torronsuo or Liesjärvi national parks. The lakeside sceneries of Hämeenlinna and Lahti can be appreciated midway, and the final leg of the journey takes the cyclist through the breathtaking landscape of the Kymijoki River. Small villages and parishes are dotted along the way, each offering their own services. Life pulsates more vibrantly in the larger cities of Hämeenlinna, Lahti and Kouvola.
Through Southern Finland - Detailed description of the route
Turku – Hämeenlinna 172 km
The journey sets off along the most significant prehistoric road in Finland, the Häme Ox Road. As early as the Viking Era, merchants, pilgrims and kings all used the route traversing the riverside sceneries of Finland Proper.
The Ox Road leads from Turku Cathedral to Häme Castle in the footsteps of our ancestors. The road still mainly follows the same course as it did hundreds of years ago. The route offers those interested in nature and history a unique chance to time-travel into the country’s past. Along the way, wildlife can be explored at Torronsuo National Park and Häme Visitor Centre.
The 160 km route is indicated with brown and white Ox-head signs. At intervals, the cycle route diverges from the main travel route.
Hämeenlinna – Lahti – Kouvola 188 km
There is a great deal to see in Hämeenlinna. Key attractions include the medieval Häme Castle, the birthplace of composer Jean Sibelius and the Aulanko nature reserve, as well as the quality design companies Wetterhoff (textiles) and Kultakeskus (silverware and jewellery). Surrounded by lakes, the city offers marvellous opportunities for a swim.
Home to Fun-Bear, Puuhamaa Amusement Park in the Tervakoski area is a must for families with young children. A climb up Hakoinen Castle hill is rewarded by a stunning view over Janakkala Church, Karnaalanjärvi and Tervakoski. The entire area abounds in relics of the past.
A bustling market-square with cheerful stalls and outdoor cafes lies at the heart of the City of Lahti. The harbour area is the new living room of Lahti! Relax for a while at a beach café or bar before taking in the Sibelius Hall, musical water-fountain, Lanu Sculpture Park, Vonkale Fishing Park or a dose of summer theatre. All this is found in the same spot along the shores of Lake Vesijärvi, within walking distance of the city centre. Something for everyone! The versatile recreational opportunities of the Salpausselkä ridge beckon for some outdoor exercise. Cycle routes in Lahti can offer stimulation for several days.
The journey continues from Lahti via Nastola to the Kymenlaakso region. Woodland areas vary from rugged, lichenous woods spread over rocks and ridges to deep-green spruce forests and lush groves. Flora rare in the whole country can be found in the groves, including the pale pasque flower and wild thyme.
Kouvola is set amidst the landscapes of the River Kymijoki. The wildlife and geographical location of Kymenlaakso guarantee a range of possibilities for the makings of a successful holiday. The Kouvola region offers river cruises, white-water rafting and rock climbing, amusement parks, historical and cultural experiences, and much more.
Route Difficulty
The route suits inexperienced cyclists as well as families with younger children, provided that the children have cycled before. There are plenty of attractions to visit along the way, and daily distances can be kept moderate as accommodation is usually found within a range of 30 km. Despite some altitude differences along the way, the main part of the route is not hilly. The route has been planned to favour roads with little traffic and avoid busy roads, although the quieter roads can be narrow and sometimes without verges, thus requiring extra care whilst cycling. The route mainly runs along surfaced roads; unsurfaced roads are separately indicated on the map.
Accessibility
The route can be followed either from Turku to Kouvola or from Kouvola to Turku. If you wish, you can also break the journey into shorter cycling trips as Turku to Hämeenlinna or Hämeenlinna to Kouvola.
Through Southern Finland -cycling guide contains road maps on a scale of 1:100 000 and city maps on a scale of 1:20 000. There are separate cycling maps available for Turku, Hämeenlinna, Lahti, Kuusankoski and Kouvola.
|