Jurmo Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit and things to do in Jurmo, Finland. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, hiking/biking routes to delicious local cuisine, this guide covers it all.


Introduction to Jurmo

Jurmo is a small island located in the Archipelago Sea, in the Finland Proper region of West Coast, Finland. It is a part of the Nordic countries, situated in Northern Europe. Jurmo is a nature lover’s paradise with its untouched wilderness, beautiful beaches, and tranquil atmosphere. The island is a popular tourist destination for those who seek peace and tranquility, and it is also known for its cultural richness.

List of Places to Visit in Jurmo

There are plenty of places to visit while in Jurmo. Whether you want to explore the historical and cultural landmarks or experience the island’s natural beauty, here are some must-visit locations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jurmo Church
  • Old cemetery
  • Fishing village museum
  • Historical windmill
  • The former school building turned into a community center

Natural Attractions of Jurmo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Seaside cliffs
  • Beaches
  • Diverse flora and fauna
  • Forest trails
  • Beautiful meadows

Hiking/Biking Routes of Jurmo

Jurmo is a hiker’s paradise with numerous trails that showcase the natural beauty of the island. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • The red route (5.5 km): This trail takes you through a pine forest and leads to stunning sea views.
  • The blue route (11 km): A more challenging trail that passes through rocky terrain, forests, and the coast.
  • The green route (6.5 km): A shorter trail that takes you through the forest and a beautiful meadow.

Bikers can also explore the trails by renting a bike from one of the local rental companies.

Best Things to Do in Jurmo: Activities and Tours

Jurmo offers a range of activities and tours, from kayaking and fishing to bird watching and island hopping. Here are some of the top things to do in Jurmo:

  • Kayaking: Take a guided kayaking tour and explore the breathtaking coastline of Jurmo.
  • Fishing: Experience the island’s fishing culture by taking a fishing trip with the local fishermen.
  • Horseback Riding: Take a horseback tour of Jurmo and experience the island’s nature up close.
  • Bird Watching: Observe the rare bird species residing in Jurmo.
  • Island Hopping: Explore other nearby islands by taking a boat ride.

Week-Long Itinerary for Jurmo

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Jurmo:

Day Activity
1 Explore Jurmo Church and the old cemetery
2 Take a kayaking tour around the island
3 Go on a fishing trip with the local fishermen
4 Hike the blue trail
5 Take a day trip to nearby islands
6 Visit the fishing village museum and windmill
7 Enjoy a horseback riding tour around the island

Food and Drink Scene of Jurmo

Jurmo has its own unique cuisine, with many dishes featuring locally-caught fish. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Muikku (smoked vendace)
  • Traditional Finnish fish soup
  • Grilled salmon
  • Crayfish in dill cream

Local Beverages

  • Sahti (a traditional Finnish beer brewed with juniper berries)
  • Koskenkorva (a Finnish vodka)
  • Cloudberry wine (made from cloudberry, a Finnish berry)

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

Jurmo offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and needs. Here are some of the best places to stay on the island:

  • Jurmo Hus (a traditional guesthouse with a sauna and restaurant)
  • Jurmo Resort (a waterfront hotel with a restaurant and bar)
  • Jurmo Camping (a camping site near the beach)

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

When in Jurmo, be sure to take some of the island’s unique products back home as souvenirs. Some popular items include:

  • Handmade woolen socks and mittens
  • Dried fish
  • Locally-made jams and berry products
  • Handmade candles

Local Culture and Customs of Jurmo

Jurmo has a rich cultural heritage, and its history can be seen in its traditional buildings, churches, and fishing villages. The locals are known for their warmth and hospitality towards visitors, and guests should be respectful of the culture and traditions of the island.

Best Time to Visit Jurmo

The best time to visit Jurmo is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the island is bustling with activity. Winter offers a chance to experience the island’s serene atmosphere and participate in winter sports, but the island is less busy during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Jurmo

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Treat the environment with care and do not litter
  • Try the local cuisine and products
  • Take part in outdoor activities
  • Treat the locals with respect and kindness

Don’t:

  • Disregard the environment or litter
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions
  • Hike off the designated trails
  • Take anything from the island (such as rocks or plants)

Safety and Health

Safety in Jurmo

Jurmo is generally a safe island, but it’s always best to be careful. Here are some safety tips for your trip to Jurmo:

  • Always be aware of your surroundings and belongings.
  • Take precautions against ticks and ticks-borne diseases.
  • Follow safety guidelines for outdoor activities.

Health in Jurmo

While there are no major health risks on Jurmo, visitors should still take some precautions. Here are some health tips for your trip to Jurmo:

  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
  • Apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.
  • Check for ticks after spending time outdoors.
  • Bring any necessary medication with you.

Getting to Jurmo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Jurmo is accessible by ferry from nearby cities. Here are some options for reaching the island:

Airports Near Jurmo

The closest international airport to Jurmo is Turku Airport, located approximately 60 km away. Helsinki Airport, the largest airport in Finland, is also an option.

Bus Stations Near Jurmo

There are bus stations in nearby cities such as Turku and Helsinki, which offer connections to the ferry ports.

Other Options

It is also possible to drive to the ferry ports and take the ferry to Jurmo.

How to Get Around in Jurmo

The best way to get around Jurmo is by walking, biking, or taking a boat ride. Bikes can be rented from local rental companies, and boats can be hired for island hopping adventures.

Where to Go Next from Jurmo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Jurmo is an excellent base for exploring other nearby islands in the Archipelago Sea. Some popular destinations include:

  • Naantali
  • Turku
  • Helsinki
  • Åland Islands

Conclusion

Jurmo is a hidden gem among the Nordic countries, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. With its tranquil atmosphere, untouched wilderness, and exciting outdoor adventures, Jurmo is the perfect retreat for those seeking a peaceful and authentic experience.

View from Högberget towards the village View from Högberget towards the village Road on Jurmo, leading from the harbour to the village, by one of the few fields Road on Jurmo, leading from the harbour to the village, by one of the few fields The chapel and the graveyard The chapel and the graveyard A ''munkring'' A ''munkring'' The heath, while seemingly barren, has high biodiversity, with some very rare species. The heath, while seemingly barren, has high biodiversity, with some very rare species. Utö seen from Jurmo, 13 km away Utö seen from Jurmo, 13 km away