Kurjenrahka National Park Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more in Kurjenrahka National Park. Explore Finland's stunning national park with our complete travel guide.


Introduction to Kurjenrahka National Park

Kurjenrahka National Park is a natural wonderland situated in the region of Finland Proper, making it a popular destination for hiking, nature walks, and wildlife watching. The park is surrounded by lakes, forests, and wetlands, home to a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors to Kurjenrahka National Park get to enjoy its beautiful scenery, tranquility, and activities for all ages.

List of Places to Visit in Kurjenrahka National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kurjenpesä Nature Centre: The nature centre is the starting point for visitors to Kurjenrahka National Park. It offers interactive exhibits, a small shop, and information on the park’s flora, fauna, and trails.
  • Ruins of Kurki Castle: The ruins of Kurki Castle were destroyed in the 16th century, but visitors can still see some of the foundations and parts of the walls of the castle.

Natural Attractions of Kurjenrahka National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kurjenrahka Trail: The main attraction of the park is the Kurjenrahka Trail, a circular route that runs through the park. The trail is about 30 km long and can be hiked in one or two days.
  • Pääskyvuori Observation Tower: The observation tower offers a panoramic view of the park and the surrounding area.
  • Lake Savojärvi: Lake Savojärvi is the largest lake in Kurjenrahka National Park, and it offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and canoeing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kurjenrahka National Park

Kurjenrahka National Park offers a variety of hiking and biking routes for all skill levels. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Kurjenrahka Trail
  • Kuikankataja Trail
  • Saarniola Trail

Best Things to Do in Kurjenrahka National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Wildlife Watching: Kurjenrahka National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, wolves, and lynx.
  • Canoeing: The park boasts over 100 km of waterways, making it the ideal location for kayaking and canoeing.
  • Fishing: Visitors can fish for pike, perch, and trout in the park’s lakes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kurjenrahka National Park

Day 1: Arrive in Kurjenrahka National Park and spend the day exploring the Kurjenpesä Nature Centre.

Day 2: Hike the Kurjenrahka Trail and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Day 3: Go canoeing on one of the park’s lakes.

Day 4: Visit the ruins of Kurki Castle.

Day 5: Take a guided wildlife watching tour.

Day 6: Go fishing in one of the park’s streams.

Day 7: Enjoy a relaxing day in the park, picnicking, and soaking in the natural beauty.

Food and Drink Scene of Kurjenrahka National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Karjalanpaisti: Karjalanpaisti is a traditional Finnish dish made with beef, vegetables, and spices.
  • Ruisleipä: Ruisleipä is a dark Finnish bread made with rye flour.

Local Beverages

  • Olut: Finnish beer
  • Lonkero: A Finnish long drink made with gin and grapefruit soda

Where to Stay in Kurjenrahka National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Iironkallion Maja: A small guesthouse located within the park. It offers simple accommodation and a restaurant on site.
  • Kuralan Kartanotila: A renovated farmhouse located near the park. It offers comfortable rooms and a sauna.

What to Buy in Kurjenrahka National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Suomineito: A traditional Finnish doll dressed in national costume.
  • Luonnonkosmetiikka: Natural cosmetics made with ingredients from Kurjenrahka National Park.

Local Culture and Customs of Kurjenrahka National Park

Finns place a high value on nature, which is evident in the care and conservation of national parks like Kurjenrahka. Visitors to the park are expected to respect the environment and follow the rules of the park. For example, camping and lighting fires are only allowed in designated areas.

Best Time to Visit Kurjenrahka National Park

The best time to visit Kurjenrahka National Park is during the summer months, from June to August when it’s warmer and the days are longer. Fall is also a great time to visit when the leaves change color. Winter is not recommended for visiting the park because of the harsh weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kurjenrahka National Park

Do:

  • Respect the park’s rules and regulations.
  • Bring insect repellent during the summer months.
  • Try traditional Finnish dishes and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the park.
  • Damage or remove park property.
  • Approach wildlife too closely.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kurjenrahka National Park

The park is generally safe for visitors. However, hikers should be aware of their surroundings and bring appropriate gear, including a map and compass.

Health in Kurjenrahka National Park

Ticks are prevalent in the park, especially during the summer months. Visitors should take precautions, such as wearing long sleeves and pants, using insect repellent, and checking for ticks after hiking.

Getting to Kurjenrahka National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kurjenrahka National Park

The closest airports to Kurjenrahka National Park are Turku Airport and Helsinki Airport.

Bus Stations Near Kurjenrahka National Park

There are regular bus connections from Turku to Kurjenrahka National Park.

Other Options

Visitors can travel to the park by car, bicycle, or on foot.

How to Get Around in Kurjenrahka National Park

The best way to get around Kurjenrahka National Park is on foot or by bicycle. Visitors can expect to walk or bike several kilometers to reach different parts of the park.

Where to Go Next from Kurjenrahka National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Turku: Turku is Finland’s oldest city and is known for its beautiful archipelago.
  • Archipelago National Park: Located in the Turku archipelago, Archipelago National Park offers stunning views and a unique island-hopping experience.
  • Helsinki: Finland’s capital is renowned for its cultural attractions, architecture, and nightlife.

Conclusion

Kurjenrahka National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and outdoor activities. With its beautiful scenery, variety of hiking and biking trails, and opportunities for wildlife watching and water sports, it’s the perfect destination for a family vacation or romantic getaway. Plan your trip to Kurjenrahka National Park and experience Finland’s stunning natural landscape.

Kurjenrahka bog in spring, with some snow remaining. View from the Koivusaari bird watching tower. Kurjenrahka bog in spring, with some snow remaining. View from the Koivusaari bird watching tower. Sign by the regional road. Sign by the regional road. Signage at Rantapiha Signage at Rantapiha The national park and some surrounding areas. Restricted areas in pink and brown, the rest of the national park in green, trails in brown and green, roads in grey. Some trails are missing from the map. Note that there are two different Lammenrahka bogs. The national park and some surrounding areas. Restricted areas in pink and brown, the rest of the national park in green, trails in brown and green, roads in grey. Some trails are missing from the map. Note that there are two different Lammenrahka bogs. Duckboards through forested part of the bog. The trees grow slowly, the nearest one is more than 50 years old (while pines on good soil give timber at 80). Duckboards through forested part of the bog. The trees grow slowly, the nearest one is more than 50 years old (while pines on good soil give timber at 80). Vajosuo in November, seen from the bird watching tower. Vajosuo in November, seen from the bird watching tower. Bilberry, cloudberry, black crowberry and bog bilberry, picked in late July Bilberry, cloudberry, black crowberry and bog bilberry, picked in late July Rowing boats for hire at Rantapiha Rowing boats for hire at Rantapiha Rest spot with benches and table on the route around Savojärvi Rest spot with benches and table on the route around Savojärvi Skiing tracks by Kuhankuono Skiing tracks by Kuhankuono Main building and kiosk at Rantapiha. Main building and kiosk at Rantapiha. Spartan cottage near Vajosuo Spartan cottage near Vajosuo