Orivesi Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Orivesi, the town in Pirkanmaa region of Finland! Discover the natural, cultural and food attractions and activities, and find tips on how to get there, where to stay and what to do.


Introduction to Orivesi

Orivesi is a picturesque town located in the Pirkanmaa region of Finland. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Located in the heart of the Finnish Lakeland, Orivesi is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Here is a comprehensive tour guide to help you plan your trip to Orivesi.

List of Places to Visit in Orivesi

To make the most out of your trip to Orivesi, here is a list of the top attractions and places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Orivesi is home to many cultural and historical attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Orivesi Museum of Cultural History: This museum is dedicated to the cultural history of Orivesi and its surrounding areas. It has an impressive collection of artifacts, including traditional costumes, tools, and household items.
  • Ehrentals House: It is a wooden building located in the center of Orivesi. The house was built in the 19th century and is now a museum exhibiting the lifestyle and living conditions of the upper-class of that time.
  • Kalevan Navetta Cultural Center: This cultural center is housed in a beautifully restored barn and hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year.
  • Orivesi Church: The church is a beautiful example of Finnish wooden architecture and dates back to the 18th century.

Natural Attractions of Orivesi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Orivesi is a nature lover’s paradise with its lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and scenic views. Here are some of the most popular natural attractions:

  • Pukala Recreational Forest: It is the perfect place for a picnic or a relaxing walk. The area offers seven kilometers of hiking trails, a beach, and a lean-to shelter.
  • Liesjärvi National Park: This national park is located near Orivesi and is famous for its diverse flora and fauna. It has several hiking trails, bird-watching towers, and a beautiful lake.
  • Päijänne National Park: It is one of the largest national parks in Finland. The park offers breathtaking views of the lake Päijänne, and visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and canoeing.
  • Orivesi Lakeland: The town is located in the heart of the Finnish lakeland, and visitors can enjoy various water sports activities like fishing, swimming, and boating.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Orivesi

Orivesi has an extensive network of hiking and biking trails that run through its beautiful forests and scenic landscapes. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Karpalopolku Trail: This 9-kilometer trail takes visitors through the lush forests of Orivesi and offers stunning views of scenic lakes and streams.
  • Maasilinnanpolku Trail: This 4-kilometer trail runs through the forest and provides visitors with a glimpse into the history of Orivesi.
  • Pukalanpolku Trail: This 5-kilometer trail takes visitors through the Pukala recreational forest and showcases the beauty of the Finnish Lakeland.
  • Orivesi Tour: It is a 28-kilometer cycling route that takes visitors through the beautiful countryside of Orivesi and its surrounding areas.

Best Things to Do in Orivesi: Activities and Tours

Orivesi offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Guided canoe trip: Visitors can take a guided canoe trip through the Orivesi Lakeland and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
  • Ice fishing: In the winter, visitors can enjoy ice fishing on the frozen lakes of Orivesi.
  • Orivesi Adventure Park: It is a high ropes course that offers a thrilling experience for visitors and challenges them to overcome their fears.
  • Lakeside sauna: Visitors can rent a lakeside sauna and experience the traditional Finnish sauna culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Orivesi

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Orivesi:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the town center and visit Orivesi Church
Day 2 Visit the Orivesi Museum of Cultural History and Ehrentals House
Day 3 Hike the Karpalopolku Trail and enjoy a picnic lunch in Pukala Recreational Forest
Day 4 Go on a guided canoe trip and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Orivesi Lakeland
Day 5 Visit the Kalevan Navetta Cultural Center and take a tour of the Liesjärvi National Park
Day 6 Enjoy a lakeside sauna and ice fishing on one of the frozen lakes of Orivesi
Day 7 Cycle the Orivesi Tour Route and explore the beautiful countryside

Food and Drink Scene of Orivesi

Orivesi is known for its delicious local cuisine and traditional Finnish dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Karjalanpaisti: It is a traditional Finnish stew made with beef, pork, and root vegetables.
  • Kalakukko: It is a fish-stuffed bread that has been a traditional Finnish food for centuries.
  • Karjalanpiirakka: It is a savory pastry filled with rice or potato and served with butter and egg butter.

Local Beverages

  • Lonkero: It is a Finnish drink that is a mixture of grapefruit soda and gin. It is a popular summer drink in Finland.
  • Sahti: It is a traditional Finnish beer that is made from malted barley and rye.

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

Orivesi offers a variety of accommodations for visitors ranging from hotels to hostels and guesthouses. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • Hotel Kunturi: It is a 4-star hotel located in the scenic landscape of Finnish Lakeland and offers excellent amenities like a spa and a gym.
  • Orivesi Guesthouse: It is a cozy guesthouse located in the town center and offers comfortable rooms and a traditional Finnish breakfast.
  • Kiviranta Resort: It is a lakeside resort that offers private cottages and villas with saunas and access to a private beach.

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

Orivesi has a rich culture and history, and visitors can bring home some unique souvenirs and local products to remind them of their trip. Here are some recommendations:

  • Handicrafts: Visitors can purchase traditional Finnish handicrafts like pottery, hand-woven textiles, and woodcarvings.
  • Lakeland Honey: Orivesi is known for its high-quality honey made by local beekeepers.
  • Liquorice: Orivesi is also known for its delicious black liquorice, which is a popular Finnish sweet.

Local Culture and Customs of Orivesi

Orivesi has a rich culture and history, and visitors can experience it through various cultural events and traditions. Here are some facts about the local culture and customs:

  • Midsummerfest: Midsummer (juhannus) is one of the most important festivals in Finnish culture, and Orivesi hosts various events like a bonfire, folk music, and traditional dance.
  • Sauna Culture: Sauna is an essential part of Finnish culture, and many families have a private sauna in their homes. Visitors can experience traditional Finnish sauna culture by visiting public saunas.
  • Respect for Nature: The Finnish culture has a deep respect for nature, and visitors are expected to follow this ethos by practicing responsible tourism.

Best Time to Visit Orivesi

The best time to visit Orivesi is during the summer months (June - August) when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful Finnish nature during autumn when the leaves change colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Orivesi

Do:

  • Respect nature and practice responsible tourism
  • Take off your shoes when entering someone’s home
  • Follow the Finnish sauna etiquette

Don’t:

  • Wear shoes inside homes or saunas
  • Talk loudly in public places or on public transportation
  • J-walk or cross roads on a red light

Safety and Health

Safety in Orivesi

Orivesi is a safe place to visit, and visitors can enjoy their trip without worrying about safety concerns. However, visitors are advised to take standard travel precautions.

Health in Orivesi

Finland provides free or low-cost emergency medical care for all visitors. However, visitors are advised to purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, especially if they plan on engaging in adventure activities.

Getting to Orivesi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Orivesi is located 170 kilometers from Helsinki, and visitors can reach the town by various means of transportation. Here are some options:

Airports Near Orivesi

The closest airport to Orivesi is Tampere-Pirkkala Airport, which is located approximately 40 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Orivesi

Orivesi has a bus station that offers frequent connections to Tampere and other neighboring towns.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car, hire a taxi, or take a train to reach Orivesi.

How to Get Around in Orivesi

Orivesi is a small town, and visitors can easily explore it on foot or by bicycle. Car rentals and taxis are also available for visitors.

Where to Go Next from Orivesi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Orivesi is located in the heart of the Finnish Lakeland, and visitors can explore other nearby destinations like:

  • Tampere: It is a vibrant city located approximately 50 kilometers from Orivesi and offers a range of attractions like museums, theaters, and restaurants.
  • Helsinki: It is the capital city of Finland and is located approximately 170 kilometers from Orivesi. Helsinki offers visitors a glimpse into the Finnish culture and heritage.

Conclusion

Orivesi is a hidden gem in the Finnish Lakeland, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful nature, rich culture, and warm hospitality of the local people. We hope this comprehensive tour guide helps you plan your trip to Orivesi and enjoy the best of what the town has to offer.

Orivesi railway station Orivesi railway station