Längd
1623 kmVaraktighet
14-28 daysHöjdmetrar
7399mHögsta punkten
69m% Oasfalterad
8 %% Stigar
0 %Svarighetsgrad
2% Körbar
100 %The Baltic Sea in Northern Europe is surrounded by nine countries: Denmark, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Russia, Finland, and Sweden. The Baltic Sea is one of the largest brackish water areas in the world, and its drainage area is about four times larger than its surface area. On the Finnish part of the Eurovelo 10 route you tour the Gulf of Finland as well as the very northern part of the Baltic Sea, the Bothnian Bay.
The Finnish part of EuroVelo 10 takes you along coastal roads on the shores of the Baltic Sea, through towns and bigger cities, across forests and open fields, and over rivers and islands for a journey that is 1600 kilometers in length. Along the route are many nationally valuable landscape areas. They portray the most typical cultural landscapes, with valuable and diverse culturally-shaped nature, agricultural landscapes, and traditional buildings. The southern part of the route follows, in part, an old postal road, known as ”Kuninkaantie” (=Kings Road) or ”Suuri Rantatie”(=Great Coastal Road), which connected the vast Swedish empire from the west in Bergen to the east in Vyborg.
Crossing over from Haaparanta on the Swedish side, you come to Tornio, delta of the popular fishing river Tornionjoki, and the start of the Finnish part of EuroVelo 10 route. You are now at the most northern part of the Baltic Sea, one of the largest brackish water areas in the world with a drainage area about four times larger than its surface area. As you cycle around the Bothnian Bay National Park, only a boat’s ride away, you cross many rivers that contribute fresh water to the bay. Along the way is Oulu, the fifth largest city in Finland. Did you know that Oulu is renowned as the world’s winter cycling capital? Oulu has 600 km of bike and walking paths which are maintained throughout the year, keeping cycling’s modal share at 20% despite temperatures averaging -15°C!
Cycling southward, you pass small towns like Kalajoki and its vast sand dunes, Kokkola and Pietarsaari which both have old wooden house districts dating back to the 1700’s. The route from Kokkola to Pietarsaari iis a scenic route through the outer archipelago over 7 bridges, truly a biker’s dream route! On the west coast, outside Vaasa, the unique Kvarken Archipelago is Finland’s only Natural World Heritage Site on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Together with Sweden’s High Coast, only 80km away, the Kvarken Archipelago is the best place in the world to experience and understand the land uplift phenomenon caused by the last Ice Age.
Uusikaupunki, Rauma, Pori, and Kristiinankaupunki are all towns with a beautiful and unique archipelago and maritime feel as well as a closeness to the Bothnian Sea National Park. Rauma is a vibrant cultural city with two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Pori is known for its Jazz festival held every year in the beginning of July and the beautiful Yyteri dune area and Kokemäenjoki riverfront parks. Naantali, home of the Moomins and the Kultaranta Presidential summer residence, is enroute to Turku, city of parks and seven hills. Turku is Finland’s oldest city dating back to the 13th century. Cycling on the Aurajoki river bank you see the hills on both sides of the river, one of them is also Kakola, where a prison was situated until in 2015 great renovations turned it into something you now do want to visit!
From the Turku area you have access to the start of the Archipelago Trail, the absolutely stunning 250 km ring route through the Turku Archipelago.
On your way to Salo, you cross the old, wooden Halikko bridge from 1866; the same place had a bridge already back in 1626 and it was also a crossing point at the time of the old postal road. From Salo you turn south passing Mathildedal ironworks village and Teijo National Park, one of the loveliest areas on this route. Tammisaari is the southern point on this EuroVelo 10 route in Finland. Tammisaari or Ekenäs Archipelago National Park stretches from the inner archipelago to the open sea. Almost 90 % of the park consists of water areas, so the park preserves nature both above as well as under the water. From Tammisaari you again catch parts of the old postal route on your way to Helsinki. The route meanders through the countryside and the charming village of Snappertuna.
Arriving at Helsinki, capital of Finland, and the neighboring cities of Espoo and Vantaa, you are in the bustling metropolitan area with approximately 1.5 million inhabitants. Even here the Baltic Sea is very much present. Helsinki city area has over 300 islands, many of which are accessible by a bridge or a ferry. The Suomenlinna-Sveaborg Sea Fortress is a Unesco World Heritage Site located just a short 15 minute ferry crossing over from the Market Place and Old Market Hall.
Heading eastward, you come tothe picturesque town of Porvoo at the Porvoonjoki river estuary offering many cultural sights. The lovely Loviisa is a gem by the sea, with little alleys and lovely gardens. A boat ride to the Svartholm Sea Fortress will give you a glimpse of the beautiful archipelago that is becoming one of the most attractive travel destinations in southern Finland. Further on in the southeast, the Kotka-Hamina region has a long history of East battling West from as early on as the 13th century. The mighty mercantile city of Novgorod in Orthodox Russia spread its influence to this region, and on the other side the Swedes tied the territory to the west. Many of the fortified constructions in the region, such as the Hamina Fortress and Kyminlinna in Kotka, are reminders of the borderlands.
The Finnish part of the EuroVelo 10 route ends in the southeastern corner of Finland at Vaalimaa in Virolahti.
Summer months between May and August at these geographical levels are full of light and the temperatures perfect for cycling. The unique arctic maritime environment is at its best – with glistening water just perfect for swimming!
The more detailed trail notes for this EuroVelo 10 route are under development. We riding the route from north to south!
Photos: Visit Finland
- Daylight for more than 15 hours between May and August
- The peacefulness of the countryside and small towns
- Beautiful coastal roads close to the sea
- Amazing marks of Ice Age at Kvarken and Bothnian Bay
- Naval battle fortresses and museums at Kotka, Hamina, Loviisa, Helsinki and Pori
- Wooden house districts in Loviisa, Porvoo, Rauma, Pietarsaari, and Kokkola
- Sights and city life in Helsinki, Turku, and Oulu
- Make sure you pack a first-aid kit. Hospitals, medical centers and pharmacies are located in the cities and larger towns, you are most often in an approximately 50 km radius of professional help. Hospitals are in Kotka, Helsinki, Tammisaari, Salo, Turku, Rauma, Pori, Vaasa, Oulu and Kemi. Medical centers are located in all the cities and large towns along the route.
- If you face an emergency, e.g. get lost, get injured or observe wildfire, call national emergency phone number 112 and report an emergency. More information on how to act in an emergency. You can also download an application ”112 Suomi”, which when used has the benefit of your location being forwarded to the public safety answering point.
- Charge your phone to the maximum just before the ride and protect your phone from getting wet. Turn off data when you don't need it so your phone will not use up the battery trying to find reception. Generally reception is adequate on smaller roads but there may be areas with no reception. If you plan to camp outside camping facilities, carry a power bank with you.
- The average temperature varies greatly as the route extends many different climate sectors. May can be quite chilly, especially in the northern part of the route and when cycling very close to the sea. In June and July the difference is not that great along the route, but nights can be cool, average temperatures between 15-20 degrees Celsius. In August the humidity increases and average temperatures drop some 3-5 degrees throughout the route. You can experience anything from sleet to tropical heat waves. In April and early May, as well as late September you might even encounter snow in the northern part of the route.
- Check the weather forecast e.g. from Ilmatieteenlaitos and dress according to the weather, layered clothing is always a good option.
- Drinking water and toilet paper are good to carry along on the daily cycling routes or when trekking in the National Parks.
- On this route you do not have the Midnight Sun, but daylight is available at least 15 hours between May and August. Even in southern Finland daylight is 19 hours at Finnish midsummer festivities around the 24th of June! The nights are not pitch dark during the summer months, so if you are sensitive to light when sleeping maybe have a sleep mask with you.
- In July the insects are out, mosquitoes, wasps, horseflies, gadflies, blackflies (Simuliidae) and biting midges (Ceratopogonidae). The amount of insects varies on the route. Cover your skin properly; light colored clothing attracts them less, make sure the cloth has a tight weave. Use insect repellent, if necessary. Have medication available if you are sensitive to insect bites.
- Late July, August and September are the peak seasons for collecting berries and mushrooms, wild superfood abundant in nature – blueberries and lingonberries, even billberries.
- Cycling on this route requires caution. The route follows Finland's main and secondary road network with heavy traffic in some sections. The roads do not have any specific shoulder for cyclists and there are only very short cycling tracks along the way in connection with bigger towns. We also highly recommend using safety vests and helmets.
- The route runs through the countryside and areas with rather scarce inhabitation. The services are mainly in the towns and cities along the route, approximately every 30-55 kms. Even then the quality and quantity of the services is not what you may be used to back home.
- Accommodation services are mostly in the cities and larger towns. Kotka, Hamina, Loviisa, Porvoo, Helsinki, Turku, Rauma, Pori, Vaasa and Oulu have an abundance of accommodation, so make use of them and stay for several nights to enjoy the activities the cities offer! In some of the smaller towns there are only 1-2 options for accommodation.
- Check the opening times of accommodation you plan to use, especially camping sites with services. In Finland camping facilities start to close in August for the season.
- The legal concept of “Everyman’s Right” in Finland extends freedom to roam but comes with some responsibilities. You can camp for a night anywhere in nature when you keep at least a 150 meter distance to buildings or people's yards and agricultural lands and you do not cause any harm to people nor the land. You can swim in lakes and rivers if you are not disturbing others or using private shore areas. Picking berries and mushrooms is allowed. The outdoor enthusiast’s golden rule requires a desire to preserve and protect the unspoiled beauty and wonder of nature for future generations to enjoy. National Parks and other restricted areas have stricter rules. More information here.
- If you are interested in hiking and camping in the National Parks, check these web pages for instructions and guides as well as maps.
- If the forest fire warning is in effect, do not light any fires, not even in constructed campfire places. This prohibition does not apply to cooking shelters or other fireplaces with a flue. Check the situation of forest and grass fire warnings.
- Using a camping cooker is possible at all times and locations.
- Restaurants are available along the route, but not at regular intervals. During most of the days you have 1-2 cafes/restaurants on the route for lunch. Check all opening hours from the service webpages!
- Grocery stores are in larger towns and cities. Make use of them to stock up on snacks, drink and food you may need, especially if you are planning to do camping.
- Finnish tap water is very good and perfectly safe to drink and carry with you.
- It is recommended that you carry with you the water & drink you need for a day. Thus you are always prepared.
- There are along the route many creeks, rivers, and lakes, but the cleanliness of the water can not be guaranteed. Usually running water (creeks and rivers) is better for drinking than still water. Do not use any water which runs through grazing lands or residential/industrial areas. It is highly recommended to purify the water if you use natural water. Purify by boiling or using filters or purification tablets.
- Measures should be taken in advance to avoid taking unnecessary waste into the area. Take all waste out of the area and recycle when at waste services. Do not litter nature! Biodegradable waste should be placed in a toilet or composter, when available, and small amounts of clean paper and cardboard can be used as kindling in a campfire.
- There are buses operating between Helsinki and Turku, and Helsinki and the eastern cities of Kotka, Hamina and Porvoo. On the west coast buses operate from Turku northward to Rauma and Pori. In the north you can connect by bus between Tornio and Kemi. Check Matkahuolto web pages for the time schedules and destinations to buying your ticket. Communicate directly with the route operator for reserving space for your bike.
- Direct train connections are possible from Helsinki to Kotka, Turku, Pori, Vaasa, Oulu, Kemi and Tornio. From Turku you can take the train to Pori, Vaasa, Oulu and Tornio.
- For tickets check vr.fi website and for bringing your own bicycle on the train.
- Airports are situated at Helsinki, Turku, Pori, Oulu and Kemi. Check Finnair web pages for details to buying tickets and for instructions about bringing your own bicycle on the airplane.
- From the airports there are many options to catch connecting transportation. Check from the Finavia webpages the local connections for the airport you are interested.
- Another option is to combine cycling with a cruise! Helsinki,Turku, and Vaasa are the harbors for boats between Sweden, Åland Islands, and Finland.From Helsinki you can also connect between Sweden, Germany, Poland, and Estonia! Check the schedules and routes: Tallink-Silja, Viking Line, Eckerö Line, Finnlines or Wasaline.
- If you are traveling with your own bicycle by bus, train or airplane or boat, reserve the place for the bike well in advance and note that ebikes are not allowed on airplanes at all.
- Tip: If you want to minimize cycling, consider taking a bus to cover a part of the journey and concentrate cycling to those sectors you are most interested in
Welcome to the shores of the Baltic Sea!
The Finnish part of EuroVelo 10 starts in the northwestern corner at Tornio, the northernmost part of the EuroVelo 10 route. From the Swedish side of Tornionjoki river, a popular fishing river, at Haaparanta you cross over to the Finnish side. From there you cycle along coastal roads taking you along the shores of the Baltic Sea, through towns and bigger cities, across forests and open fields, and over rivers and islands for a journey that is 1600 kilometers in length. Along the route are many nationally valuable landscape areas. They portray the most typical cultural landscapes, with valuable and diverse culturally-shaped nature, agricultural landscapes, and traditional buildings.
The southern part of the route follows, in part, an old postal road, ”Kuninkaantie” (=Kings Road) or ”Suuri Rantatie”(=Great Coastal Road). The road started from Bergen, Norway and then came through Sweden, Åland Islands and the archipelago to Turku, from where it continued through Karjaa, across central Espoo towards Porvoo and onwards to Kotka and Hamina and then Vyborg in Russia. This road was used by kings and their couriers, bishops, bourgeois, artists, and armies. It connected the vast Swedish empire, and along the route mansions, farms, inns, and taverns made sure there was a bed and bread available for those using the route.
The Baltic Sea in Northern Europe is surrounded by nine countries: Denmark, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Russia, Finland, and Sweden. The Baltic Sea is one of the largest brackish water areas in the world, and its drainage area is about four times larger than its surface area.
The Baltic Sea is relatively isolated from other seas, and has only a narrow connection to the North Sea through the Sound and the Belt Seas. Hence, it takes approximately 30 years for its waters to be fully exchanged. Marine water enters the Baltic Sea predominantly during winter storms and brings in water of higher salinity and improves oxygen conditions in the deep waters. Freshwater reaches the Baltic Sea from numerous rivers. More than one third of the Baltic Sea is shallower than 30 meters.
At the most northern part of the Baltic Sea, you cycle through Kemi and come to Oulu, the fifth largest city in Finland. In Oulu the area around the Market Place and Market Hall and the pedestrian street Rotuaari are nice areas to check what the locals are up to. The little statue of a policeman (=Toripoliisi) guarding the market is the favorite of all. Should you ever come back in the winter, remember that Oulu is renowned as the world's winter cycling capital. 600km of bike and walking paths are maintained throughout the year, keeping cycling's modal share at 20% despite temperatures averaging -15°C!
As you cycle around the Bothnian Bay National Park, only a boat's ride away, you cross many rivers that contribute fresh water to the bay. The first island came above the water level some 1000 years ago and now there are 30 small islands and new ones being born all the time. The rocky shores, flower meadows and juniper moors offer perfect nesting areas for the birds migrating to the area. This area has been known for centuries as a good place for fishing and seal hunting, traditional means of livelihood since the 1500's until the beginning of the 1900's.
Moving southward, you pass small towns like Kalajoki and its vast sand dunes with a dense duckboard network extending to the nature trails. Kokkola and Pietarsaari both have old wooden house districts dating back to the 1700's. The harbor in Pietarsaari has been moved 3 times since the city was established in 1652 due to the land rising! And did you know that Nautor Swan, the iconic name in the sailing world, has its roots in Pietarsaari and still has its facilities here? The route from Kokkola to Pietarsaari is a scenic route through the outer archipelago over 7 bridges, hence the name ”Route of 7 bridges” (7 sillan tie; road 749). There are nice cafes to stop by and enjoy the scenery.
The Bothnian Bay lies in the area in Northern Europe where the ice was at its thickest during that time. The ice then withdrew to the mountains of Northern Scandinavia. As the weight of the glaciers lifted off the land, it has since then risen by post-glacial rebound at the highest rate in the Baltic Sea (circa 9 millimeters per year). The local population has seen how, during their lifetime, the sea has retreated during from piers and boathouses leaving them stranded on land. It is estimated that during the next 2000 years the exit from the bay at Kvarken will rise above sea level, which will result in the Bothnian Bay becoming Europe's largest lake. The maximum depth at the Kvarken sound is around 20 metres (66 ft). The bay today is fed by several large rivers, and is relatively unaffected by tides, so it has low salinity. It freezes each year for up to six months. Compared to other parts of the Baltic it has little plant or animal life.
On the west coast, outside Vaasa, the unique Kvarken Archipelago is Finland's only Natural World Heritage Site on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Together with Sweden's High Coast, only 80km away, the Kvarken Archipelago is the best place in the world to experience and understand the land uplift phenomenon caused by the last Ice Age.
As you cycle onwards the route takes you to Kaskinen, the smallest city in Finland by number of inhabitants, 1280 (in 2020). Visit the idyllic village of Ahlainen as well. You are now just some kilometers from the half-way point of the EuroVelo 10 journey in Finland, so treat yourself to an ice cream and enjoy the peace and quiet. On the southern part of the west coast are the towns of Kristiinankaupunki, Uusikaupunki, Pori, and Rauma, all with a beautiful and unique archipelago and maritime feel and closeness to the Bothnian Sea National Park. The island destinations of Säppi and Iso-Enskeri can be visited by joining a boat trip organized during the summer season.
The picturesque archipelago road 272 leads to Yyteri, outside Pori. Along the way, you’ll find great spots for pictures. Yyter ois much more than just a beach - beautiful and unique sand dunes, sea, pine forests, old spruce forests, mires, nature observation towers and sandy forest paths. At Yyteri you can walk on the hiking trails, try out mountain bikes, paddling, windsurfing, bird watching,....Yyteri beach is part of the internationally acknowledged Natura nature conservation area.
Pori is known for its Jazz festival held every year in the beginning of July. Accommodation is all sold out, so be early! More historical sights are the various ironworks and Reposaari coastal defense system built in the 1930s.The fortress is situated in the southern part of the island, west of the Reposaari village covering an area of approximately 20 hectares.
Next, you cycle into Rauma, a vibrant seaside and cultural city with two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Bronze Age burial site of Sammallahdenmäki hill is the widest and most versatile Scandinavian burial site representing the Bronze Age culture on the coast of Gulf of Bothnia. Old Rauma is a unique example of an old Nordic wooden town. Rauma is also known as a lace city - check out the lace exhibitions, follow bobbin lace making, and buy lace for yourself. Every year in July Rauma hosts the Lace week!
Heading south, you cycle through Naantali, home of the Moomins and the Kultaranta Presidential summer residence, and arrive at Turku, city of parks and 7 hills. Turku is split in two by the Aurajoki river. The side with the majestic cathedral is the old city, and the Aboa Vetus, the only archaeological museum in Finland, is a town quarter discovered underground. The ruins of Aboa Vetus include the remains of medieval houses. The Convent Riverfront, one of medieval Turku’s main streets, still runs through the museum area today.
Turku is the old capital and Finland's oldest city dating back to the 13th century. Today it is a lively university city, coming into full bloom during the summer time with people meeting at cafes and restaurants along the Aurajoki river, music festivals and boats coming and going to the magical archipelago, Åland Islands, and Sweden. Cycling on the river bank you see the hills on both sides of the river, one of them is also Kakola, where a prison was situated until in 2015 great renovations turned in into something you now do want to visit! The site is full of housing, a hotel, a spa, multiple restaurants, and a bakery. At the Aurajoki river estuary stands guard the over 700 year old Turku castle. Its granite stone walls hold within them also a piece of history. From the Turku area you have access to the start of the Archipelago Trail, the absolutely stunning 250km ring route through the Turku Archipelago.
Heading east from Turku you cross small towns like Kaarina, Piikkiö, Paimio and Halikko before Salo. At Halikko you cross the old, wooden Halikko bridge from 1866; the same place had a bridge already back in 1626 and it was also a crossing point at the time of the postal road. From Salo you head towards Tammisaari, the southern point on this EuroVelo 10 route in Finland, and a lovely seaside town. Tammisaari or Ekenäs Archipelago National Park stretches from the inner archipelago to the open sea. Almost 90 % of the park consists of water areas, so the park preserves nature both above as well as under the water. On the way you pass Mathildedal ironworks village and Teijo National Park, one of the loveliest areas on this route. The village atmosphere comes from red ochre houses, ironworks buildings, shops, unique delicacies, artisan products unlike any other, as well as spectacular nature. This area has rolling hills and beautiful landscape mixing forests and open fields.
Heading towards the metropolitan area you again catch parts of the old postal route. The route meanders through the countryside and its charming village of Snappertuna. Slowly you arrive in the bustling metropolitan area of Helsinki, Espoo, and Vantaa with approximately 1.5 million inhabitants.
Espoo, the second largest city in Finland, is in the west and your first contact next door to Helsinki. Espoo is a funny city as there are 5 central areas with vast areas of gardens and forests in between them. Espoo is the home of Nokia, Angry Birds, Nuuksio National Park, and the Otaniemi campus area housing 6 different universities. The earliest mention of Espoo is from 1431, but remnants of housing from the stone age some 8000 years ago have been found.
Helsinki and Espoo have together over 180 kilometers of shoreline, part of which is a cycle path. Cycling in the metropolitan area is rather nice as there are bikeways almost everywhere. On your way into Helsinki you cycle along a beautiful cycling path allowing you to see the archipelago of the two cities and truly seeing how the Baltic Sea is very much present in the Helsinki region.
Helsinki city area has over 300 islands, many of which are accessible by a bridge or a ferry. The Suomenlinna-Sveaborg Sea Fortress is a Unesco World Heritage Site located just a short 15 minute ferry crossing over from the Market Place and Old Market Hall. The island is also a suburb of Helsinki with around 800 residents. The fortress was shaped by three historic eras when it helped to defend first Sweden, then Russia and ultimately Finland. There are six kilometers of walls, 100 cannons, exciting tunnels, and beautiful parks. There are also museums, guided tours, events, and restaurants in Suomenlinna. The view of downtown Helsinki from the sea is definitely worth seeing also.
Helsinki, capital of Finland today, was established in 1550, but it was not until 1812 when it became the capital under Russian rule. In 1827 also the university was moved here due to the raging fire in Turku. Esplanadi and Bulevardi streets have plenty of cafes and restaurants for enjoying the delicacies and watching people stroll by. The church towers are prominent in the Helsinki skyline, but one church is hard to see as it is almost fully inside the rock - the Temppeliaukio church is beautiful with light shining through the windows and reflecting in granite. A must see, and no wonder it is the 3rd most popular sight in Helsinki!
Back in the saddle you again head out into the countryside and the area of the EuroVelo 10 route with perhaps the most interesting history. Porvoo is a picturesque town at the Porvoonjoki river estuary. The riverside houses dating back to the 1760's, the old cathedral, and Runerberg house museum, home of Finland’s national poet Johan Ludvig Runeberg and his wife Fredrika Runeberg, are just a few of the sights to see. Do take time for the culinary delights of the restaurants here or stop by the Brunberg shops for some liquorice and other sweets from the oldest chocolate factory in Finland, established in 1871.
The lovely Loviisa is a gem by the sea, hop off the saddle to wander the little alleys and admire the gardens, take a boat ride to the Svartholm Sea Fortress to learn more of its history in naval battles against Russia and England during Swedish rule. Going out to the sea will give you a glimpse of the beautiful archipelago that is becoming one of the most attractive travel destinations in southern Finland. The Eastern Gulf of Finland National Park is located in the outer archipelago. The national park includes over a hundred islands and islets that are known particularly for their birdlife and military history. 18 km outside of Loviisa is the Strömfors Ironworks in the village of Ruotsinpyhtää. Founded in 1695, the iron mill village has retained its unique atmosphere throughout the years.
On road 170 and its smaller side roads, you will pass through coastal landscapes with open fields, marshlands and small communities and towns. The Kymijoki river has served as a natural border between the interests of the East and the West centuries ago and a route to the sea for Vikings, fishermen as well as timber and a power source for ironworks. Kymijoki river flows to the Gulf of Finland via its five forks, each with its unique delta for nature experiences. Even though the border divides, it also connects, and it has been the meeting place of cultures and traders.
The Kotka-Hamina region has a long history of East battling West from as early on as the 13th century. The mighty mercantile city of Novgorod in Orthodox Russia spread its influence to this region, and on the other side the Swedes tied the territory to the west. Many of the fortified constructions in the region, such as the Hamina Fortress and Kyminlinna in Kotka, are reminders of the borderlands. The Russo-Swedish Naval War of 1788-1790 turned the eastern Gulf of Finland into a battlefield. Maritime Centre Vellamo in Kotka has exhibitions of these battles and amazingly well-preserved shipwrecks.
One of the most impressive border-related constructions in the landscape is the Salpalinja defensive line that runs through Virolahti and Miehikkälä. The Winter War was fought between Finland and the Soviet Union between 1939-1940. During the interim peace, Finland built the 1200 km long Salpalinja extending from the Gulf of Finland to Petsamo (Pechenga in Russia) to protect the new border. Today it is one of the strongest and best preserved chains of fortifications from World War II in Europe.
The end point of the EuroVelo 10 route in Finland is Vaalimaa, the busiest of the border crossing stations between Finland and Russia. Your route now continues on the Russian side before heading into Estonia and further south.
The Finnish part of EuroVelo 10 starts in the northwestern corner at Tornio, the northernmost part of the EuroVelo 10 route. From the Swedish side of Tornionjoki river, a popular fishing river, at Haaparanta you cross over to the Finnish side. From there you cycle along coastal roads taking you along the shores of the Baltic Sea, through towns and bigger cities, across forests and open fields, and over rivers and islands for a journey that is 1600 kilometers in length. Along the route are many nationally valuable landscape areas. They portray the most typical cultural landscapes, with valuable and diverse culturally-shaped nature, agricultural landscapes, and traditional buildings.
The southern part of the route follows, in part, an old postal road, ”Kuninkaantie” (=Kings Road) or ”Suuri Rantatie”(=Great Coastal Road). The road started from Bergen, Norway and then came through Sweden, Åland Islands and the archipelago to Turku, from where it continued through Karjaa, across central Espoo towards Porvoo and onwards to Kotka and Hamina and then Vyborg in Russia. This road was used by kings and their couriers, bishops, bourgeois, artists, and armies. It connected the vast Swedish empire, and along the route mansions, farms, inns, and taverns made sure there was a bed and bread available for those using the route.
The Baltic Sea in Northern Europe is surrounded by nine countries: Denmark, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Russia, Finland, and Sweden. The Baltic Sea is one of the largest brackish water areas in the world, and its drainage area is about four times larger than its surface area.
The Baltic Sea is relatively isolated from other seas, and has only a narrow connection to the North Sea through the Sound and the Belt Seas. Hence, it takes approximately 30 years for its waters to be fully exchanged. Marine water enters the Baltic Sea predominantly during winter storms and brings in water of higher salinity and improves oxygen conditions in the deep waters. Freshwater reaches the Baltic Sea from numerous rivers. More than one third of the Baltic Sea is shallower than 30 meters.
At the most northern part of the Baltic Sea, you cycle through Kemi and come to Oulu, the fifth largest city in Finland. In Oulu the area around the Market Place and Market Hall and the pedestrian street Rotuaari are nice areas to check what the locals are up to. The little statue of a policeman (=Toripoliisi) guarding the market is the favorite of all. Should you ever come back in the winter, remember that Oulu is renowned as the world's winter cycling capital. 600km of bike and walking paths are maintained throughout the year, keeping cycling's modal share at 20% despite temperatures averaging -15°C!
As you cycle around the Bothnian Bay National Park, only a boat's ride away, you cross many rivers that contribute fresh water to the bay. The first island came above the water level some 1000 years ago and now there are 30 small islands and new ones being born all the time. The rocky shores, flower meadows and juniper moors offer perfect nesting areas for the birds migrating to the area. This area has been known for centuries as a good place for fishing and seal hunting, traditional means of livelihood since the 1500's until the beginning of the 1900's.
Moving southward, you pass small towns like Kalajoki and its vast sand dunes with a dense duckboard network extending to the nature trails. Kokkola and Pietarsaari both have old wooden house districts dating back to the 1700's. The harbor in Pietarsaari has been moved 3 times since the city was established in 1652 due to the land rising! And did you know that Nautor Swan, the iconic name in the sailing world, has its roots in Pietarsaari and still has its facilities here? The route from Kokkola to Pietarsaari is a scenic route through the outer archipelago over 7 bridges, hence the name ”Route of 7 bridges” (7 sillan tie; road 749). There are nice cafes to stop by and enjoy the scenery.
The Bothnian Bay lies in the area in Northern Europe where the ice was at its thickest during that time. The ice then withdrew to the mountains of Northern Scandinavia. As the weight of the glaciers lifted off the land, it has since then risen by post-glacial rebound at the highest rate in the Baltic Sea (circa 9 millimeters per year). The local population has seen how, during their lifetime, the sea has retreated during from piers and boathouses leaving them stranded on land. It is estimated that during the next 2000 years the exit from the bay at Kvarken will rise above sea level, which will result in the Bothnian Bay becoming Europe's largest lake. The maximum depth at the Kvarken sound is around 20 metres (66 ft). The bay today is fed by several large rivers, and is relatively unaffected by tides, so it has low salinity. It freezes each year for up to six months. Compared to other parts of the Baltic it has little plant or animal life.
On the west coast, outside Vaasa, the unique Kvarken Archipelago is Finland's only Natural World Heritage Site on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Together with Sweden's High Coast, only 80km away, the Kvarken Archipelago is the best place in the world to experience and understand the land uplift phenomenon caused by the last Ice Age.
As you cycle onwards the route takes you to Kaskinen, the smallest city in Finland by number of inhabitants, 1280 (in 2020). Visit the idyllic village of Ahlainen as well. You are now just some kilometers from the half-way point of the EuroVelo 10 journey in Finland, so treat yourself to an ice cream and enjoy the peace and quiet. On the southern part of the west coast are the towns of Kristiinankaupunki, Uusikaupunki, Pori, and Rauma, all with a beautiful and unique archipelago and maritime feel and closeness to the Bothnian Sea National Park. The island destinations of Säppi and Iso-Enskeri can be visited by joining a boat trip organized during the summer season.
The picturesque archipelago road 272 leads to Yyteri, outside Pori. Along the way, you’ll find great spots for pictures. Yyter ois much more than just a beach - beautiful and unique sand dunes, sea, pine forests, old spruce forests, mires, nature observation towers and sandy forest paths. At Yyteri you can walk on the hiking trails, try out mountain bikes, paddling, windsurfing, bird watching,....Yyteri beach is part of the internationally acknowledged Natura nature conservation area.
Pori is known for its Jazz festival held every year in the beginning of July. Accommodation is all sold out, so be early! More historical sights are the various ironworks and Reposaari coastal defense system built in the 1930s.The fortress is situated in the southern part of the island, west of the Reposaari village covering an area of approximately 20 hectares.
Next, you cycle into Rauma, a vibrant seaside and cultural city with two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Bronze Age burial site of Sammallahdenmäki hill is the widest and most versatile Scandinavian burial site representing the Bronze Age culture on the coast of Gulf of Bothnia. Old Rauma is a unique example of an old Nordic wooden town. Rauma is also known as a lace city - check out the lace exhibitions, follow bobbin lace making, and buy lace for yourself. Every year in July Rauma hosts the Lace week!
Heading south, you cycle through Naantali, home of the Moomins and the Kultaranta Presidential summer residence, and arrive at Turku, city of parks and 7 hills. Turku is split in two by the Aurajoki river. The side with the majestic cathedral is the old city, and the Aboa Vetus, the only archaeological museum in Finland, is a town quarter discovered underground. The ruins of Aboa Vetus include the remains of medieval houses. The Convent Riverfront, one of medieval Turku’s main streets, still runs through the museum area today.
Turku is the old capital and Finland's oldest city dating back to the 13th century. Today it is a lively university city, coming into full bloom during the summer time with people meeting at cafes and restaurants along the Aurajoki river, music festivals and boats coming and going to the magical archipelago, Åland Islands, and Sweden. Cycling on the river bank you see the hills on both sides of the river, one of them is also Kakola, where a prison was situated until in 2015 great renovations turned in into something you now do want to visit! The site is full of housing, a hotel, a spa, multiple restaurants, and a bakery. At the Aurajoki river estuary stands guard the over 700 year old Turku castle. Its granite stone walls hold within them also a piece of history. From the Turku area you have access to the start of the Archipelago Trail, the absolutely stunning 250km ring route through the Turku Archipelago.
Heading east from Turku you cross small towns like Kaarina, Piikkiö, Paimio and Halikko before Salo. At Halikko you cross the old, wooden Halikko bridge from 1866; the same place had a bridge already back in 1626 and it was also a crossing point at the time of the postal road. From Salo you head towards Tammisaari, the southern point on this EuroVelo 10 route in Finland, and a lovely seaside town. Tammisaari or Ekenäs Archipelago National Park stretches from the inner archipelago to the open sea. Almost 90 % of the park consists of water areas, so the park preserves nature both above as well as under the water. On the way you pass Mathildedal ironworks village and Teijo National Park, one of the loveliest areas on this route. The village atmosphere comes from red ochre houses, ironworks buildings, shops, unique delicacies, artisan products unlike any other, as well as spectacular nature. This area has rolling hills and beautiful landscape mixing forests and open fields.
Heading towards the metropolitan area you again catch parts of the old postal route. The route meanders through the countryside and its charming village of Snappertuna. Slowly you arrive in the bustling metropolitan area of Helsinki, Espoo, and Vantaa with approximately 1.5 million inhabitants.
Espoo, the second largest city in Finland, is in the west and your first contact next door to Helsinki. Espoo is a funny city as there are 5 central areas with vast areas of gardens and forests in between them. Espoo is the home of Nokia, Angry Birds, Nuuksio National Park, and the Otaniemi campus area housing 6 different universities. The earliest mention of Espoo is from 1431, but remnants of housing from the stone age some 8000 years ago have been found.
Helsinki and Espoo have together over 180 kilometers of shoreline, part of which is a cycle path. Cycling in the metropolitan area is rather nice as there are bikeways almost everywhere. On your way into Helsinki you cycle along a beautiful cycling path allowing you to see the archipelago of the two cities and truly seeing how the Baltic Sea is very much present in the Helsinki region.
Helsinki city area has over 300 islands, many of which are accessible by a bridge or a ferry. The Suomenlinna-Sveaborg Sea Fortress is a Unesco World Heritage Site located just a short 15 minute ferry crossing over from the Market Place and Old Market Hall. The island is also a suburb of Helsinki with around 800 residents. The fortress was shaped by three historic eras when it helped to defend first Sweden, then Russia and ultimately Finland. There are six kilometers of walls, 100 cannons, exciting tunnels, and beautiful parks. There are also museums, guided tours, events, and restaurants in Suomenlinna. The view of downtown Helsinki from the sea is definitely worth seeing also.
Helsinki, capital of Finland today, was established in 1550, but it was not until 1812 when it became the capital under Russian rule. In 1827 also the university was moved here due to the raging fire in Turku. Esplanadi and Bulevardi streets have plenty of cafes and restaurants for enjoying the delicacies and watching people stroll by. The church towers are prominent in the Helsinki skyline, but one church is hard to see as it is almost fully inside the rock - the Temppeliaukio church is beautiful with light shining through the windows and reflecting in granite. A must see, and no wonder it is the 3rd most popular sight in Helsinki!
Back in the saddle you again head out into the countryside and the area of the EuroVelo 10 route with perhaps the most interesting history. Porvoo is a picturesque town at the Porvoonjoki river estuary. The riverside houses dating back to the 1760's, the old cathedral, and Runerberg house museum, home of Finland’s national poet Johan Ludvig Runeberg and his wife Fredrika Runeberg, are just a few of the sights to see. Do take time for the culinary delights of the restaurants here or stop by the Brunberg shops for some liquorice and other sweets from the oldest chocolate factory in Finland, established in 1871.
The lovely Loviisa is a gem by the sea, hop off the saddle to wander the little alleys and admire the gardens, take a boat ride to the Svartholm Sea Fortress to learn more of its history in naval battles against Russia and England during Swedish rule. Going out to the sea will give you a glimpse of the beautiful archipelago that is becoming one of the most attractive travel destinations in southern Finland. The Eastern Gulf of Finland National Park is located in the outer archipelago. The national park includes over a hundred islands and islets that are known particularly for their birdlife and military history. 18 km outside of Loviisa is the Strömfors Ironworks in the village of Ruotsinpyhtää. Founded in 1695, the iron mill village has retained its unique atmosphere throughout the years.
On road 170 and its smaller side roads, you will pass through coastal landscapes with open fields, marshlands and small communities and towns. The Kymijoki river has served as a natural border between the interests of the East and the West centuries ago and a route to the sea for Vikings, fishermen as well as timber and a power source for ironworks. Kymijoki river flows to the Gulf of Finland via its five forks, each with its unique delta for nature experiences. Even though the border divides, it also connects, and it has been the meeting place of cultures and traders.
The Kotka-Hamina region has a long history of East battling West from as early on as the 13th century. The mighty mercantile city of Novgorod in Orthodox Russia spread its influence to this region, and on the other side the Swedes tied the territory to the west. Many of the fortified constructions in the region, such as the Hamina Fortress and Kyminlinna in Kotka, are reminders of the borderlands. The Russo-Swedish Naval War of 1788-1790 turned the eastern Gulf of Finland into a battlefield. Maritime Centre Vellamo in Kotka has exhibitions of these battles and amazingly well-preserved shipwrecks.
One of the most impressive border-related constructions in the landscape is the Salpalinja defensive line that runs through Virolahti and Miehikkälä. The Winter War was fought between Finland and the Soviet Union between 1939-1940. During the interim peace, Finland built the 1200 km long Salpalinja extending from the Gulf of Finland to Petsamo (Pechenga in Russia) to protect the new border. Today it is one of the strongest and best preserved chains of fortifications from World War II in Europe.
The end point of the EuroVelo 10 route in Finland is Vaalimaa, the busiest of the border crossing stations between Finland and Russia. Your route now continues on the Russian side before heading into Estonia and further south.