Viitasaari Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gem of Central Finland with our ultimate Viitasaari travel guide. Find the best things to do, places to visit, and local experiences for your next trip.


Viitasaari, a picturesque town in Central Finland, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travel enthusiasts. Surrounded by serene lakes, lush forests, and tranquil landscapes, this town has a lot to offer to tourists seeking a peaceful getaway. Viitasaari has a rich cultural history as well, evident from its museums and historical landmarks. Our ultimate Viitasaari travel guide will help you uncover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink, and much more.

Introduction to Viitasaari

Viitasaari is a town located in Central Finland, in Finnish Lakeland. The town is part of the Central Finland region and is situated approximately 170 km north of Helsinki, the capital city of Finland. Viitasaari is surrounded by serene lakes and lush green forests, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. This town has a rich cultural heritage as well, and visitors can explore museums and historical landmarks that showcase Finland’s history.

List of Places to Visit in Viitasaari

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Viitasaari is rich in history and culture and has several museums and historical landmarks for visitors to explore. The following are some must-visit cultural attractions in Viitasaari:

  • Kauneimmat Pihapiirit Museum
  • Viitasaari Old Church
  • Koskenpää Mansion Museum
  • Kotalahti Village Museum

Natural Attractions of Viitasaari: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Viitasaari is a paradise for nature lovers and is known for its beautiful lakes, forests, and breathtaking views. Here are some natural attractions that you shouldn’t miss:

  • Salamajärvi National Park
  • Pyhä-Häkki National Park
  • Lake Keitele
  • Lake Tuusjärvi

Hiking/Biking Routes of Viitasaari

Viitasaari offers several hiking and biking routes for visitors who want to explore the town’s natural beauty. Here are some popular routes:

  • Salamajärvi Hiking Trail
  • Isojärvi National Park Hiking Trail
  • Keihäslahti Nature Trail
  • Pyhä-Häkki National Park Hiking Trail

Best Things to Do in Viitasaari: Activities and Tours

Apart from visiting museums and hiking trails, Viitasaari offers several activities and tours that will make your trip unforgettable. Here are some exciting things to do:

  • Fishing in Lake Keitele or Lake Tuusjärvi
  • Canoeing or kayaking in the national parks
  • Skiing at the Pyhä-Häkki Ski Resort
  • Horseback riding in the scenic countryside

Week-Long Itinerary for Viitasaari

A week is enough time to explore all that Viitasaari has to offer. Here is a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1 and 2: Visit the museums and historical landmarks in Viitasaari
  • Day 3 and 4: Explore hiking trails in Salamajärvi National Park and Pyhä-Häkki National Park
  • Day 5: Take a scenic drive or bike ride to Lake Keitele and Lake Tuusjärvi
  • Day 6: Experience fishing in the natural lakes or go horseback riding
  • Day 7: Relax and unwind in the beautiful surroundings of Viitasaari

Food and Drink Scene of Viitasaari

Must-Try Dishes

Viitasaari has a rich food culture and offers several dishes that are unique to the town. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Karjalanpaisti (Finnish stew)
  • Riisipiirakka (rice pastries)
  • Mämmi (Finnish malt pudding)
  • Rosolli (root vegetable salad)

Local Beverages

Finland is known for its love of coffee and beer, and Viitasaari is no different. Visitors should try the following local beverages:

  • Olvi beer (a Finnish beer brand)
  • Lakkalikööri (cloudberry liqueur)
  • Finnish coffee (a strong blend of coffee)

Where to Stay in Viitasaari: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Viitasaari has several options for visitors looking for accommodation. Some popular choices include:

  • Hotelli-Ravintola Tiilikka
  • Hotel Herkkola
  • Majatalo Kivitatti (guesthouse)
  • Hostel Sämijoki

What to Buy in Viitasaari: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring home some authentic Finnish products, Viitasaari has several options. Here are some must-buy souvenirs:

  • Puukko (traditional Finnish knife)
  • Finnish glassware
  • Finnish chocolates (such as Fazer and Karl Fazer)
  • Birch bark or willow baskets

Local Culture and Customs of Viitasaari

While Viitasaari is a modern town, it still retains its traditional customs and culture. Visitors should show respect and learn about the following customs:

  • Finnish sauna culture
  • Finnish language and greetings
  • Respect for nature and the environment
  • Finnish food culture

Best Time to Visit Viitasaari

The best time to visit Viitasaari is during the summer months (June-August). The weather is warm and pleasant, and nature is at its best. The winter months (December-February) are also beautiful, but the town may be covered in snow and outdoor activities may be limited.

Do’s and Don’ts of Viitasaari

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Try local dishes and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash or litter in the parks or forests.
  • Disturb the wildlife or environment.
  • Disrespect local people or their beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Viitasaari

Viitasaari is a safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions to ensure safety, such as locking doors and windows, and not leaving valuables in the open.

Health in Viitasaari

Finland has an excellent healthcare system, and Viitasaari has several hospitals and clinics. Visitors should have travel insurance that covers the costs of medical treatment in case of emergency.

Getting to Viitasaari: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Viitasaari

The nearest airport to Viitasaari is Jyväskylä Airport, which is approximately 100 km away. Visitors can take a bus or rent a car from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Viitasaari

Viitasaari has its own bus station, and several buses run daily from major cities in Finland. Visitors can take a bus from Helsinki, Tampere, or Jyväskylä to reach Viitasaari.

Other Options

Visitors can also choose to travel by train or rent a car to reach Viitasaari. The nearest train station is in Jyväskylä, which has connections to major cities in Finland.

How to Get Around in Viitasaari

Visitors can explore the town on foot or by bike. Several rental services are available for those who want to rent a bike. Taxis are also available for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Viitasaari: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Viitasaari is surrounded by several beautiful towns and cities that are worth visiting. Here are some nearby destinations:

  • Jyväskylä (100 km away)
  • Kuopio (150 km away)
  • Tampere (190 km away)
  • Helsinki (350 km away)

Conclusion

Viitasaari, with its rich culture and natural beauty, is a must-visit destination in Finland. The town offers something for everyone, from hiking and biking to museums and historical landmarks. With this Viitasaari travel guide, plan your trip and discover the hidden gem of Central Finland.

Interior of a dwelling on the grounds of the forestry museum Interior of a dwelling on the grounds of the forestry museum Huopanankoski in March Huopanankoski in March