COAST AND ARCHIPELAGO
Finland’s coast boasts the world’s largest archipelago. Old wooden towns, lighthouses, historical manors and stone churches, large national parks stretching over land and sea – this sums up coastal Finland in a nutshell.
The laid-back islander lifestyle and a strong maritime culture are key characteristics of this fascinating area. Finland’s capital, Helsinki, has also held onto its maritime charm. Beaches, handicraft markets, small town events, cafés and village shops – Finnish coastal towns are especially lively in the summer months. Finland has seven Unesco World Heritage sites, of which three can be experienced in the coastal area.
SLOW DOWN BY KRISTER
Life by the endless sea is quite pleasant. Many come here just to relax and recharge. But it’s easy to get hooked on this unhurried way of life in the Archipelago, and few go back to the metropolis. I grew up here in Nötö, and although I was gone for a long time, I eventually wanted to return to my childhood home. In 2000, my wife and I opened a bed & breakfast here in Nötö. I haven’t missed the city ever since.
Show moreI value peace and quiet the most in life. I find it when I walk in the woods and when I cast my nets at dawn. Nötö is a special place – it’s actually different from most the islands around here. Its woods provide protection from the elements. The ancient trees of the untouched forests create their own, uniquely calm atmosphere.
Life is simple here. I carry water, cut grass and chop wood for the hearth. In the city, all of that is taken care of for you, it’s too convenient. Here in the countryside, I love taking care of our basic needs, because finishing small tasks makes you happy. We don’t waste food or buy anything we don’t need, either. Everything we need, this island provides.
-Krister
Tours and routes
Here are tour suggestions in the Coast and Archipelago region
Be inspired
Articles from Coast and Archipelago
You might also enjoy these
There are around 75 ski resorts in Finland. That’s quite a high number for a country that has no mountains. Instead of mountains, there are a great deal of hills, which are covered with snow for about 200 days a year.
Read MoreSo, you're dreaming of coming to Finland for your holiday but not sure where to start planning. Don't worry, we're here to help!
Read MoreFrom beautiful national parks to cute wooden villages and unexpected hidden gems, Finland truly is a photographer's dream destination. Scroll down to see our list of the 10 most instagrammable places in Finland.
Read MoreHenri and Riitta always dreamed of living in the uniquely beautiful Finnish Archipelago. Their dream finally came true when they set up a café in the lovely village of Nagu. Living the peaceful seaside life has been the best decision for the Talvitie family.
Read MoreStay in a lighthouse, visit an old wooden town or sail the Baltic Sea. Finland's Coast and Archipelago offers all this and more. Here are our top picks.
Read MoreWhile Finnish winter staples such as hearty stews keep us warm during the cold months, we prefer our summer food to be light, fresh and easy to prepare.
Read More
