Some nature destinations are planned, some you happen upon by sheer accident. We were driving in Kuusamo with friends when we saw a marker for Vanttajankangas. The mark further indicated that it was a part…
Tag: Historical site
Sacrificial cup-marked stones of Hartola
My co-author Jenni has seen and written plenty of cup-marked stones so this autumn I made up my mind to see them, too. As I was passing by Hartola, I decided to check out the…
Hossa National Park is a national treasure
One of the most spectacular places to experience a connection with our human history is at Hossa National Park in Suomussalmi. We had decided to hike the popular yet moderately demanding 8km (4.9mi) long Värikallion…
Fascinating Rekottila Bronze Age ruins and rock paintings
Nestled in the countryside of Paimio, Southwest Finland, lies a site steeped in history and mystery: Rekottila. It is home to ancient rock paintings, the remnants of a possible castle, and burial cairns dating back…
The sacred Suojanperä seida rock guards Nitsijärvi lake
We were driving along Sevettijärventie road in the very top of Finland. Having noticed a small mention of a sacred Sámi site at Nitsijärvi lake, we decided to stop by to check it out. We…
Piiskoomänty whipping pine is a remnant of historical punishments
Standing next to an old building is a large pine tree which looks deceptively benign to the uninformed visitor. I was visiting Kuortane in the Southern Ostrobothnia region and had read of an old whipping…
Lappajärvi, the great crater lake
I had heard of Lappajärvi, the great crater lake, from some friends many times. So, when I got the chance to visit that part of Southern Ostrobothnia, I jumped at the chance. Lappajärvi is one…
Discovering the sorrows of Kyynelten Kallio in Taivassalo
Nestled in the serene landscapes of Taivassalo, Finland, Kyynelten kallio stands as a testament to love and cruelty. This captivating site, known as the Rock of tears in English, invites visitors to explore its tragic…
Finland’s medieval trading hub Rikalanmäki hides its secrets
Rikalanmäki was one of the most remarkable medieval trading hubs in Finland. The Rikalanmäki ancient trail in Salo, Finland, invites visitors on a captivating journey through time. This short trail winds through the Rikala mansion…
Penimäki heap tombs in Paimio date back to Bronze Age
Penimäki heap tombs, Penimäen röykkiöt, says a small sign by Käräjätie road in Paimio. A small trail seems to be leading into the forest. I park the car on a small parking lot and head…