Kotka l Hamina l Miehikkälä Loviisa l Pyhtää l Virolahti
Fall in Love with the East Coast of Finland!
The Gulf of Finland Will Take Your Breath Away
The amazing, unexplored East Coast of Finland has many adventures to offer whether by land, sea, or river! You will see and experience award-winning parks, historic buildings, picturesque alleys, and enjoy local hospitality.
a feeling of freedom that will never be forgotten.
The Gulf of Finland and its archipelago are very distinctive. Let the boundless blue scenery of the sea invite you for exciting adventures. There are many islands to see, giving The islands can be accessed by ferry or boat from the Kotka harbor.
The Five Deltas of Kymijoki River
Relish the cozy lifestyle of Loviisa, engage in outdoor activities in Pyhtää, and be charmed by the abundance of parks in Kotka. Relive history in the fortresses of Hamina and the trenches of Salpa Trail in Miehikkälä and Virolahti. Take your time to experience Finnish culture and nature. Our towns, rivers and archipelago are quite unique. There are lots of things to see and do in the East Coast of Finland!
Kymijoki has an abundance of diverse, untamed rapids, creating unique scenery and numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. Pedal or paddle – the river is yours!
Explore East Coast on Foot Be charmed by our coastal towns and their cozy corners.
Look around and explore the historic quarters and scenic paths. Enjoy the colors of the award-winning parks of Kotka, marvel at the diverse nature trails ranging from majestic forests to scarce wetlands. Listen to the birds and breathe in the crisp, clean air!
History Is Always Present at The Border Many fortresses, bunkers, trenches, and bastions are
strategically located along the Southeast Coast that tell of the region’s history between two great powers. The buildings that remain standing remind us of the people’s ambition, resolve, and courage at the border. 2
Visitkotkahamina.fi
3
Sunny East Coast Populated by cordial but tenacious people, this corner of Finland has a rich history. From the roar of the nearby sea through to picturesque river deltas teeming with fish, to idyllic harbor towns and villages – welcome to the East Coast of Finland! Miehikkälä Hamina Loviisa
Pyhtää
Virolahti
Kotka
Distance from Helsinki
Helsinki
4
Loviisa Pyhtää Kotka Hamina Virolahti Miehikkälä
89 km 107 km 133 km 146 km 181 km 186 km
5
f o s e r rT easu o g a l e p i h c r A e th
Let the Eastern Archipelago charm you with its idyllic island villages, rich history, and Scandinavian cuisine.
Kaunissaari Kaunissaari is the most popular island destination in south-eastern Finland, with excellent services for travellers. The island’s restaurant and café offer fare with local ingredients. The island also has a shop and museum to explore. Kaunissaari has been inhabited since the 16th century and there are still a few families living on the island year-round. The idyllic fishing village at the southern end of the island charms tourists with its narrow alleys and old buildings. The village has a shop and pizza restaurant and a variety of accommodations, including a luxury flat with stunning sea views. Enjoy salmon soup at the legendary Kaunissaaren Maja and release your inner artist on the karaoke stage. But do remember to respect the locals and keep it within reason so that people can visit the island in the future, too.
Charming Archipelago Ahoy! Anchors up and upwind! Jump onboard a ferry at the Port of Kuusinen in Kotka to experience the mesmerizing Kaunissaari. The journey to the island takes about 1.5 hours, but it’s most definitely worth it. In Finnish, ‘kaunis’ means ‘beautiful’ and ‘saari’ translates as ‘island’, and this island sure is beautiful.
The treasures of the Eastern Gulf of Finland archipelago are waiting to be discovered. You don’t have to go far to have an unforgettable experience!
Whether you stay at this authentic fishing village in a cottage, inn, or campsite – you are guaranteed to experience something special. Kaunissaari has gorgeous sandy beaches, lots to do, local delicacies to try, and most importantly – stunning scenery in all directions. Take in the sunrise and sunsets, spend the day swimming, hiking, fishing, paddling, or pedaling - or just enjoy your stay relaxing in the
Varaa elämyksiä visitkotkahamina.travel
tranquility of nature. The island has a shop, museum, restaurant, café, and ferries regularly running back and forth. Remember to check the schedules online beforehand.
8
9
A Gulf of Finland Getaway The archipelago of the eastern Gulf of Finland is unparalleled in its diversity and beauty an experience not to be missed. The archipelago of the Gulf of Finland is both beautiful and diverse and will provide a memorable experience. Scheduled ferries, sea cruises, and taxi boats can take you to the islands of Rankki, Varissaari, and Haapasaari, which also serves as a border crossing point – no passport needed, though. Haapasaari was at one time the smallest municipality
Book a guided tour
in Finland, but it still holds the honor of having the smallest shop in Finland.
of the Maritime
On the island of Varissaari, you can enjoy a lovely meal with
visitkotkahamina.travel
Centre Vellamo here:
breathtaking views of the sea at Restaurant Vaakku. Still, it’s also possible to stock up on snacks at the local supermarkets before crossing the water. There are also cafés and little shops onboard the
The largest naval battle of the Baltic Sea took place at the
There are many exhibitions, both permanent and temporary,
ferries, at the harbors, and on some of the islands. Remember to check
seafront of Kotka in the late 18th century. Ruotsinsalmi
at Vellamo, and the building itself will dazzle you with its
the ferry schedules online beforehand. The Eastern Gulf of Finland
(Svensksund) Fortress was built in the aftermath to protect
unique architecture. Outside on the pier (which also serves
National Park consists of about a hundred islands favored by boaters,
the Ruotsinsalmi Strait from future attacks, but the fortress
as an exhibition space), you will find the grand-old Tarmo
sailors, and bird watchers alike.
was largely destroyed in the Crimean War during the mid-19th
icebreaker ship, built in Newcastle, England, at the beginning
century. However, some parts have remained upright to this
of the 20th century and which holds the title of the world’s
day for the curious traveler to see.
second-oldest icebreaker. The Tarmo ship is now a museum in
Some islands also allow camping, and one of the most popular camping spots is on Ulko-Tammio. Accessible by ferry from Kotka, the isle of
and of itself and opens to the public during the summer. Take
Ulko-Tammio has a three-kilometer-long hiking trail and a tunnel on the
Hop on a ferry to explore the ruins of Fort Slava and Fort
time after learning all of that history for lunch at Restaurant
island that introduces you to the island’s history and unique nature.
Elisabeth, which are just a short boat trip away from Kotka
Laakonki in the same building and get some souvenirs at the
harbor. Visit the amazing shipwrecks at Varissaari museum
museum shop.the same building and buy souvenirs at the
Nature aside, the Gulf of Finland and its surrounding region have a
and the pride of Kotka – the Maritime Centre Vellamo.
museum shop.
fascinating history to explore. Due to its location between Sweden and
Experience the tumultuous history of the Ruotsinsalmi
Russia, the southeast corner of Finland provided the stage upon which
Fortress via an interactive exhibition, scale models of the
battles were fought and maps redrawn.
fortress, and stories from those who experienced it first-hand.
10
11 Maritime Centre Vellamo
Svartholm Svartholm Sea Fortress outside Loviisa was built in the 1750s and suffered great damage during the Crimean War. In the 1960s, the Finnish Heritage Agency began to restore the fortress, commonly known as the little sister of Helsinki’s Suomenlinna Sea Fortress.
Trips to Archipelago
If you embark on a sea adventure to Svartholm with the kids, bring toy swords with you, as this is the perfect place to play pirates! Svartholm Bistro is a popular stop for the local boaters, so do as they do and stop by for a tasty meal and a bit of relaxed island life before heading back to the mainland. It is recommended to book your boat trip beforehand.
TOP Day Trips to Archipelago 1
Haapasaari 1,5 h
2
Varissaari 15 min
3
Tammio 2 h
4
Rankki 45 min
5
Kirkonmaa 1 h
6
Svartholm 30 min
Sea Adventures Await
TOP Island Stays 7
Kaunissaari 1,5 h
Feel the warmth of the sun on your skin and the cool crisp sea
8
Ulko-Tammio 2 h
before you. Laivasilta Pier in Loviisa makes this reality.
9
Rakin Kotka 20 min
Enjoy the local dishes at outside eateries, or do a bit of impulse
breeze that flows over it, and then take in the glimmering sea right
shopping at some small boutiques. Then hop on board to see yet another sea fortress, Svartholm, only half an hour away.
Check the archipelago boat service by scanning this QR code.
Restaurant Vaakku Varissaari
12
13
The y t h g i Alm er Riv ijoki Kym
Kymijoki River is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Whether you are looking for a place to relax, the best place for fishing, or pumping up your adrenaline with some exciting activities, Kymijoki River is the place to be.
3 Tips for River Kymijoki
Roaring Rapids Kymijoki River has five unique deltas with numerous streams, rapids, bends, and forks that heavily influence the Southeast Finland landscape – most of them which have played a significant part in the region’s history. In this area, the natural habitat is versatile and provides endless unforgettable opportunities for all outdoor activities.
1
Cycle along the rugged riverbanks or hike in woods that vary from leafy and lush forests to scarce wetlands and fields. Go fishing, kayaking, white water rafting, swimming, or just admire the roaring rapids and beautiful clean nature from a distance.
2
River Kymijoki is a paradise for outdoor lovers! Go for kayaking or rafting!
3
Go fishing! The Kymijoki river is one of the best places for catching trout in Southern Finland. If you are visiting the area for the first time, book a professional guide to go with you - you’ll have a better chance of catching fish. Go kayaking! Try the easy 10-kilometer-long Hirvikoskenhaara Route that goes from Kuovinkallio through to Hirvivuolle. Local business owners will provide you with kayaks,t canoes, or boats. Kymijoki is one of the best places to paddle in Southern Finland. Go white water rafting! It is an experience you won’t forget – a fast-paced, outdoor activity that you can top off with a delicious meal and a sauna.
Aurorahut, Erämys Keisarinkosket
16
17
TOP 5 Fishing Locations 1 2
Langinkoski Siikakoski Kokonkoski
Fishing at River Kymijoki Whether you’d prefer throwing a fly or a lure, fishing areas are abundant in the Southeast. Large salmon migrate into River Kymijoki, packed with rainbow trout, or an occasional pike, asp, or zander.
3
Ahvionkoski
4
Pernoonkoski
Siikakoski rapids, where you can find tranquil nature right in
Hirvikoski
a hiking trail, a riverside restaurant, and the nearby Lohilaani
5
Take time to enjoy the wilderness. Listen to its sounds.The gurgling and humming of the rivers, rich in diversity and rugged in appearance.
Try fishing at such places as the rocky and well-stocked the heart of Kotka. There are casting jetties, campfire sites, Fishing Village, so why not make a day out of it! Stay the night at local hotels, at a cottage riverside, or a camping site by the sea.
Lohilaani
Fishing Village In Fishing Village Lohilaani, enjoy the experience of fishing in beautiful surroundings of Siikakoski rapid whether
The most popular fishing site at Kymijoki is the Korkeakoski casting jetty, where the odds of catching succulent sea trout are high and where you will have the company of other anglers. There is, however, ample space for those that would rather go it alone; with many other slow and fast rapids in the Keski-Kymi area, such as the Ahvionkoski Rapids.
from the beach or on a rowing boat. You can rent fishing gear and boats at the village, and even stay the night. Refreshments and snacks are available for purchase at the café.
Book your trip at visitkotkahamina.travel
Kaukolanraitti 128, Kotka
18
See the canoeing routes by scanning this QR code.
19 19
Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge
Fly Fishing at an Imperial Setting
Strömfors Ironworks
Another recommended site for the demanding angler is
lodge is a museum and it is surrounded by a beautiful
Langinkoski, also in the heart of Kotka. It’s the best place to
conservation area. The Langinkoski area is open
Along the westernmost fork of the Kymijoki River, you’ll
catch rainbow trout in Southern Finland and is exclusively
year-round; the museum you can visit in the summer.
find a charming old ironworks called Strömforsin Ruukki
reserved for fly-fishers.
There are also cafes in the area. The rapids do not freeze
(Strömfors Ironworks) with its picturesque surroundings
even in the winter.
steeped in artisanal traditions. Here you can hear the
In the 1880, Alexander III, the future Emperor of Russia,
burning coal crack and the thumping on the anvil, with the
visited the River Kymijoki delta. He fell in love with the
flowing river and chirping birds nearby.
fish-rich Langinkoski rapids and wanted to have his own fishing lodge on its bank. Nowadays, the emperor’s fishing
Strömfors Ironworks is one of Finland’s oldest ironworks, dating back to 1695. Baron Johan Creutz founded the first
hydroelectric power. Since then, it has attracted all kinds of businesses, such as a brewery, a brick factory, and a sawmill. With its red-stained buildings and open-air museum, the area has remained almost unchanged to this day and is a charming, unique village protected by The Finnish Heritage Agency. The Forge Museum includes an old smith’s workshop and a working mill wheel. There is also an art gallery and many restaurants and craft shops in close proximity.
shop in the area due to its plentiful forests and abundant
20
21
Picnic is the best part of the hike! Pack some snacks and have a break by ‘laavu’. It translates as ‘lean-to’ and means a type of an outdoor shelter for hikers.
Strömfors provides gorgeous nature trails and
The western fork of the Kymijoki River that flows
waterways for the outdoor enthusiast, and bikes,
next to Strömfors once marked the border between
boats, canoes, sup-boards, and kayaks can be
Russia and Sweden. This line on the map was drawn
rented at the village. Extend your stay at a local hotel,
in 1743 in the Treaty of Åbo. It divided the village of
guesthouse, or cottage, and you will find yourself at
Pyhtää into two separate villages: Pyhtää on the east
the heart of artisan history and breathtaking nature.
and Ruotsinpyhtää on the west (which translates into Swedish Pyhtää in English and is known as
There is also a fantastic 8-kilometer-long hiking route at Lake Kukuljärvi that starts from Strömfors. It has cliff views and lakeside scenery, a picnic area with a place for a campfire, as well as toilets
Strömfors in Swedish).
Both Pyhtää and Ruotsinpyhtää have unique historical churches worth visiting. The Pyhtää church dates back to medieval times yet remains in its original form. It stands right by the east bank of the westernmost fork of the Kymijoki River. The Ruotsinpyhtää church is part of the open-air museum of Strömfors Ironworks, and it has a unique altarpiece painted by the famous Finnish artist Helene Schjerfbeck.
- Bring your bathing suit!
22
23
s e r u t n e v d A t o o F on
Unhurried walks, stopping at places of interest and observing the local way of life are often the best thing about holidays.
Fall in love with nature and its diversity. Enjoy it as it is - pure and precious.
Gorgeous Countryside At the Easternmost corner of the coastline of Finland you will find the most idyllic Klamila Marina with its charming summer markets and delicious meals at Bistro & Bar Potkuri.
TOP 5 Hiking Trails 1
Portimo Trails 40 km
2
Valkmusa National Park 2,3 ja 4 km
When you are in the countryside you should most definitely visit Seppälä sheep farm and Merikeinu alpaca farm. Their farm animals are extremely friendly and cuddly. For some serious countryside hiking och off-road cycling we recommend the 50-kilometer Salpa Trail and the 40-km Portimo Paths, which both have also many shorter route options to choose from.
Valkmusa National Park Within the Kymijoki River region, its deltas and valleys hide unique, scenic sites, such as Valkmusa National Park, an extensive natural open mire with several types of wetlands. This kind of scenery is more generally associated with Lapland, way up North! Valkmusa has two unique hiking routes - Läntinen keidas (Western Oasis) 2,5 km and Moronvuori 3,2 km. Western Oasis takes you on a roundtrip on duckboards with a nature observation tower and a picnic area at the halfway
26
mark. The Moronvuori trail leads up to the Moronvuori Day Hut - a campfire place with firewood and a toilet. During the winter, these bogs are perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
3
Kukuljärvi Trail 8 km
4
Salpa Trail 50 km
5
Santalahti Nature Trails 2,1 km + 2,4 km
By the way, at the Bunker Museum in Virolahti, you can spend a night in a real bunker and explore trenches at Salpa Line Museum in Miehikkälä.
Valkmusa is also an important resting area for migratory birds. So, keep your eyes open for rare birds and endangered butterfly species that like to rest on the peat moss, especially in early springtime. If you visit during early winter, you can find endless patches of wild cranberries, as far as the eye can see! Scan this QR-code to learn more about hiking trails in the region.
27
The cycling routes of the East Coast of Finland lead you to the archipelago, rivers, forests and historical sights. Check out our website for the best tips on day trips or longer cycling experiences.
Close to Nature
Read more at visitkotkahamina.fi/en Plan your holiday at visitkotkahamina.travel
Fancy sleeping next to the Kymi river and marvelling at the starry sky? The Kymi river rapids are considered among the best rapids for canoeing, and there is also plenty to experience on the way, with good accommodation.
Check out places to see and visit along the way. Hop on a ferry and go cycling on an island or pedal
Why don’t you try swimming in the rapids, and hop on
along our magnificent rivers. Spend the night at
a river cruise. Local entrepreneurs rent canoes and
a hotel, campsite or a cottage and continue your
other equipment and will deliver them where you want
adventure the next day.
them.
TOP 5 Cycling Routes 1
Along Kymijoki River Rapids 24 km
2
Hamina and Surroundings 16 km
3
Coast of Fortresses 220 km
4
Salpa Trail Loop72 km
5
Kotka Parks 5 km
Scan this QR-code to learn more about cycling routes in
28 28
the region.
29
Within this small town, nothing is too far away. Stroll through the lovely Kappelinpuisto (Chapel Park), take the historical Ehrensvärd Trail, and explore Loviisa Fort at Garnison Park, where the rivers and bays of
Loviisa TOP 5 1 2
Loviisa meet. Upon arriving at Sibelius Park, you might have probably already
Strömfors Ironworks
guessed that there’s a story about it, and you’d be right. Famous
Svartholm Sea Fortress
Loviisa as a child. He wrote his Kullervo symphony in Loviisa and gave
Finnish composer Jean Sibelius used to visit his grandmother in concerts at Seurahuone, one of the oldest buildings in Loviisa, still used for various events and festivities.
3
Malmgård Estate
4
Loviisa Town Museum
is well worth a visit. Mikael Agricola, the father of Finnish literature,
Loviisa Old Town and Laivasilta Pier
a magnificent medieval stone church. You can also rent canoes or
5
Loviisa is called a city of villages. Pernaja with its coastline and islands called this area home when he was young. Pernaja also has enjoy the small, quaint beach. Arriving in Skinnarby, you cannot help but wonder about the smallest shop museum in Finland, which will transport you back to the 1950s. This is a worthy stopover on your way to Malmgård or the Strömfors Ironworks.
The Café of Thousands of Woes serves small delights and local delicacies.
Idyllic Seaside Surroundings For those who love old wooden houses and picturesque townships, Loviisa is an absolute treasure so take the time to explore it. Wander the little alleys and admire the courtyards and gardens in this lovely little town by the sea. You can start your Loviisa tour, for example, by visiting the local museum at the historical Komendantintalo (Commandant’s House) that was built in 1755. Loviisa is famous for its gardens, and there are annual events that allow people to visit and inspect them more closely.
30
31
Loviisa Church is a majestic sight and an excellent landmark that can steer you towards Myllyharju, an area loved by the locals for recreation. The 1,7 km route provides a lovely view of the sea, just beyond idyllic wooden houses. Test your fitness with the Harju staircase, enjoy the rhododendrons and climb up one of Finland’s most beautiful lookout towers. The Art Nouveau Kukkukivi tower, more than a century old and handcrafted from metal, is absolutely enchanting and unique. It is the ideal place to take in Loviisanlahti bay, basking in the sunshine. And when you get hungry, you will be spoiled for choice in Loviisa. Try, for example, Restaurant Locale, Bisto Kronan, Café Favorit, Degeri - Sport Pub & Dine, Loviisan Kappeli, Tuhannen tuskan kahvila (The Café of Thousand Woes), in the summertime, the terrace restaurants at Laivasilta. You can stay at Hotel Uninen, Loviisa Camping or Villa Björksten, and continue exploring Loviisa the following day.
Malmgård Manor
Did you know? The old town also has one of Finland’s oldest wooden buildings, from 1695, an outbuilding of the Degerby riding stables. These days, the building houses the Degerby Gille restaurant, with a buffet table on Thursdays.
Not far from Loviisa city centre you can find Malmgård,
Buy a few Dinkels and drive to the beautiful seaside resort of
a 500-hectare farm owned by the Creutz family, which is
Rönnäs for the night. Rönnäs has well-equipped cottages,
a popular tourist destination in the summer. Take a tour in the
and you can rent equipment for any seasonal activity, such
beautiful Renaissance castle and visit the shop to buy risotto
as snowshoeing, boating, fishing and cycling. Or you can just
grain, Malmgård liquorice and the local organic flour for your
enjoy the view of the sea and relax.
root bread. Malmgård’s beers have received international awards. They are made using grains that used to be common in the old days, such as spelt.
32
33
Glorious Parks Make sure to include these parks on your itinerary. Sapokan
Kotka TOP 5 1
Maritime Centre Vellamo
2
The Parks of Kotka
3
Maretarium
4
Varissaari Island
5
Langinkoski
Vesipuisto (Sapokka Waterpark) - the top-rated waterpark in Finland, Katariinan Meripuisto (Katariina Sea Park) – for its open sea views, Yrttipuutarha Redutti-Kotka - which has an herb garden in a historical fortification, and Veistospromenadi (Sculpture promenade) – a sculpture exhibition park Additionally, save some time for Sibeliuksenpuisto (Sibelius Park), Palotorninvuoren Puisto (Fire tower mountain), Jokipuisto (River Park), Fuksinpuisto (Fuchsia Park) and Isopuisto, which has the oldest building in Kotka. When you are in Sapokka, be sure to visit Maretarium to discover the world of Finnish aquatic nature. Do you know which kind of fish gudgeon, chub, minnow, or tench are? Perhaps you already recognize perch, eel, pike, flounder, and roach, but how do you identify a roach from a rudd, a small whitefish from a vendace, or a trout from a salmon? Visit Maretarium to find out more. At Sapokka you can enjoy a lovely snack or a meal at either Meri Café Kristina, Marina Café Laituri, Tukikukko or Restaurant Wanha Fiskari, before exploring Kotka at Palotorninvuori Park or Maritime Centre Vellamo. There are numerous exhibitions with
34
Kotka is famous for its parks, and there are many of them. They are all unique and well worth the visit at any time of the year. Explore your favorite parks by foot or with a rental bike, and don’t forget to stop to refuel on your way at one of Kotka’s many wonderful restaurants and cafés.
something for everyone, whether you want to relive historical battles at sea, admire art or learn about boat building. If you love the sea, visit the Katariina Sea Park at the southern tip of the island. Feel the sea breeze and let your eyes rest on the horizon. When it’s clear, you can get a glimpse of Suursaari, an island on the other side of the Russian border.
35
In the evening, relax in traditional Finnish sauna. visitkotkahamina.fi/en/ events
Delicious doughnut ”posso” is a must while
Aino & Alvar Aalto’s Sunila
visiting Kotka. Each Finnish market place has its own local delicacy.
Make the most of your Aalto experience and stay
In Kotka, it’s the ‘posso’, a piggy-shaped flat doughnut
overnight at the local inn or in a flat designed by the
with apple marmalade filling. Grab one on your walk
Aaltos and decorated with fantastic vintage furniture.
from Isopuisto Park to Sibelius Park. If you feel like
Take a bike ride to the seaside and enjoy the breeze at
having a burger, you’re in the right place, as the
Äijänniemi beach, with a charming backdrop of pine
award-winning The Van is there to serve you. The
woods.
company won the Burger Battle in 2021. If you want a bit of action, come to Kotka on the last When relaxing in Kotka’s parks, you may not think about
weekend of July. Finland’s third most popular city
gunpowder and cannon fire, but there was plenty of it a
festival, Meripäivät, will have the whole city celebrating.
couple of centuries ago. From the time of the Svesksundé sea fortifications, there still remains the
Wherever you go in south-eastern Finland, you’re
St. Nicholas Church, the oldest building in Kotka. Learn
never too far from the sea. Santalahti nature trails offer
about the local history in museums, on nature trails and
unforgettable views of the beautiful Gulf of Finland.
around fortifications. These can be found in all areas of south-eastern Finland, on land and sea.
Take a walk along the cliffs and among huge boulders. Take a dip in the cool water or stop for a picnic. Sleep in
For anyone interested in architecture and design,
a tent, cottage or luxury villa. Enjoy standup
Sunila by Aino and Alvar Aalto is an absolute must.
paddleboarding, cycling, golf, snowshoeing in the
The couple’s most extensive design work is interesting
winter, or just relax and enjoy the nature.
even by international standards, a pearl that has been proposed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
36
Floating sauna Kiulu
37 37
In Hamina, you can see a lot on foot. Walk the Fortress Path to see the fortified wall ruins of the early 19th century, built to protect the city in all directions. The famous Hamina Bastion has been renovated for modern use and takes in visitors nowadays as an international event arena. For swimming and just generally enjoying warm summer days,
Hamina TOP 5 1
Hamina Bastion
2
Town Hall and its surroundings
3
The world of flags and The Monumental Flag
4
Shopkeeper’s Museum
5
Tervasaari
Tervasaari is the best place in Hamina, and there are lovely cafés and restaurants in the area. Try such places as Restaurant Rampsi Kitchen and Lounge or Taverna Tervanaru. In the first week of August, Hamina hosts the annual international military music festival Hamina Tattoo, and the town bustles with musicians and music lovers from all over the world. It is here that you can also find the world’s tallest flag of Finland. Visit Hamina any time of the year for some interesting activities: festivals, Tattoo, Christmas market, exhibitions, to name just a few. This charming little town has an amazing number of things to see, such as the neoclassical round temple with Byzantine stylings. In Hamina, you can also see fantastic murals by Tove Jansson, the creator of the Moomins. All of that action might make you yearn for a break. Try SpaHotel Hamina or Hamina Camping Pitkäthiekat for a good night’s rest. However, maybe you’d like to experience a stay at a local farm -
Bastions and Forts
contact Villa Jaakkola or Metson Tila to secure your bed, and then continue exploring the countryside the next day.
Hamina, a world-class fortress city, is an eye-candy lover’s dream and will spark your imagination. It is the oldest town in Southeast Finland and is built on a rare circular town plan. In the middle of the circle stands the Town Hall, from which the streets of the old town and their colorful houses, museums, churches, boutiques, and cafés intersect. Take a bite at Café Huovila and wander around the historic cobbled streets. But be careful, you might be going in circles!
38
39
Extraordinary Accommodation
Try Something Unique
If you prefer more action, the Aeronautica Arena in Pyhtää will meet the needs of the most
Fall asleep to the sound of the sea or river, admiring the night sky.
demanding traveller. At the core of
Paddle your canoe under the trees along the smoothly flowing river to
the Aeronautica, there is a free-fall
Laawu accommodation built on a raft, away from it all.
flight tunnel and Finland’s biggest indoor surfing area. At Aeronautica,
Or wake up to a beautiful summer morning in a rural setting in which the sun
you can book fatbikes, boating and
caresses grain waving in the wind.
canoeing trips, and even helicopter flights.
AuroraHut accommodation you can find both at Loviisanlahti bay and on the 1
Erämys Keisarinkosket
2
Rääntiö island
3
AuroraHut Loviisa
4
Häyhä Laawu
5
Santalahti Glass Villa
6
Laawu Wellsters
7
Rakin Kotka
8
Alvar Aalto flats in Sunila
Kymi river. Laawu accommodation is available along the eastern and western
Kotitie 10, Pyhtää
branches of the Kymi river, and in the village of Hauhia in Miehikkälä. Or are you perhaps looking for something even more special? Spend a night
Aeronautica Arena
in the Bunker Museum in Virolahti in a round bunker or on the Viking themed ecological island Rakin Kotka.
For those who prefer it super hygge, we recommend the wonderful Villa Itäranta on Rääntiö island, or Santa Glass Villa at the Santalahti Resort. Exhilarating experiences are available to you in the Kymi river rapids or in the eastern part of the Gulf of Finland, swimming, doing yoga, canoeing or fishing, but also at the charming farms. Pet sheep or practise the life of a shepherd at Seppälä sheep farm, or take a walk with Sulo and Chanel alpacas. The stunning scenery in the countryside invites you to
Lean more about extraordinary
relax, walk along the edge of a field, and go rowing on a lake.
accommodation options:
The easternmost part of the Finnish coast hides treasures inviting you to find them!
40
AuroraHut Kultaa
Seppälä sheep farm
41
See & Do
Maritime Centre Vellamo Maritime Centre Vellamo, the number one attraction in our area, attracts 100,000 visitors annually to enjoy the excellent, interactive exhibitions. Vellamo can entertain
Strömfors Ironworks
families with children, or adult groups, not only feeding
Malmgård Estate
Discover this historical area and its
Loviisa Town Museum
Home of local, internationally awarded
the hungry but also giving food for thought.
The Museum at Commandant’s House
charming surroundings, outdoor
craft beers. A wide variety of organic
downtown Loviisa was built in 1755 and
activities, small boutiques, and lovely
products are also made here
is a national treasure.
The legendary Kantasatama Harbour in Kotka is an
restaurants.
experience in and of itself, but it also offers a variety of
Ruukintie 10, Ruotsinpyhtää
entertainment.
Malmgård 47, Loviisa
Puistokatu 2, Loviisa
Tornatorintie 99, Kotka
Maretarium Maretarium is an aquarium house for Finnish fish species in Sapokka, Kotka. At the Maretarium, you will get to know Finnish aquatic nature.
Old Town Hamina In this fortress town, you will experience an idyllic old town atmosphere, beautiful churches, and interesting museums.
Sapokka Water Garden The award-winning parks of Kotka will charm you. Each park has its own look and special features. Sapokka Park is the #1 park in Finland.
Finland’s smallest shop museum
Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge
Salpa Line
Step back to the 1950s to see what
In the Langinkoski nature reserve, you
Virolahti Bunker Museum, you will learn
a village shop was like in those days,
can fish and learn about the history of
about the construction of the Salpa Line
with genuine objects from the era and
the area at the Imperial Fishing Lodge.
and enjoy the outdoors.
At Miehikkälä Salpal Line Museum and
nostalgic radio tunes playing in the background. The same entrance fee will also allow you to visit the ornamental garden and lifestyle shop.
Sapokankatu 2, Kotka
42
Raatihuoneentori 1, Hamina
Tallinnankatu, Kotka
Paavalinkyläntie 671, Loviisa
Keisarinmajantie 118, Kotka
Vaalimaantie 1318, Virolahti Säästöpirtintie 70, Miehikkälä
43
Eat & Drink
We Recommend Restaurant Tori Loviisa
Enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner in Restaurant Tori at the Kotka market place. Tori, with a stylish interior, offers trendy, delicious food right in the centre of Kotka. From Tori, it is a short distance to any attraction or cultural event.
Restaurant Olkihattu
Bistro & Bar Potkuri
Olkihattu, open during weekends,
The summer restaurant in the
serves local food in the middle of nature.
beautiful seaside setting of Virolahti
The restaurant offers a country setting,
offers delicious food and a relaxed
in what used to be a barn, with a terrace
archipelago atmosphere.
ideal for summer dining. Kirkkokatu 5, Kotka Säkäjärventie 204, Virolahti
Summer Restaurant Vaakku
Kotkan klubi
Kalasatamantie 148, Klamila
Restaurant Strömforsin mylly
Restaurant Vausti
Restaurant Locale This restaurant is like a second living
Vaakku serves delicious á la carte
The roots of Kotkan klubi go back to
In the historic setting of Strömfors
Fall in love with the atmosphere at the
dishes and breathtaking sea views on
1875, and now it houses a popular lunch
Ironworks, you can enjoy delicacies
historic Kotka Concert Hall and with
room for the locals. The beautifully
the island of Varissaari in Kotka.
and a la carte restaurant.
prepared from raw ingredients grown
the delicacies of the stylish Vausti
decorated restaurant offers pizzas,
by local producers, either on a relaxed
restaurant. Vausti makes fabulous
steaks and pasta dishes.
terrace or, by order, during a candle-lit
international dishes from the best local
dinner.
ingredients.
Varissaari, Kotka
44
Kirkkokatu 2, Kotka
Ruukintie 15, Ruotsinpyhtää
Kotkankatu 7b, Kotka
• • • •
Bistro & Butik Kronan Restaurants and cafés on the Laivasilta Pier Cafe Favorit Café Tuhannen tuskan kahvila
Kotka
• • • • • •
Restaurant Wanha Fiskari Marina Cafe Laituri Moliendo Cafe Seurahuone restaurants Café and cake shop Hygge Restaurant Laakonki
Hamina
• • • • •
Rampsi Kitchen & Lounge Taverna Tervanaru Coffee shop Huovila Restaurant Mon Ami Kerho wine bar
Mannerheiminkatu 2, Loviisa
45
Guesthouse Torppa and Pikkutorppa
Accommodation
The super cosy Guesthouse Torppa is located in a quiet area near the Kymi river, rich in fish, and Alvar Aalto’s Sunila, as well as fantastic hiking and cycling
Original Sokos Hotel Seurahuone
trails. Take it easy in the garden and in the beautifully renovated, traditional log house.
Original Sokos Hotel Seurahuone is a great choice
Mäenpääntie,48720 Kotka
when you want to enjoy good service, spacious and comfortable rooms, and a wide range of restaurants
Loviisa Camping
under one roof - yet in a historic and ecological
Loviisa Camping, next to the Plagen
setting in the city center. Enjoy sauna moments over
beach, is one of the most beautiful
the city rooftops, or rent a city bike for sightseeing.
camping sites in Finland. Arrive with your campervan or book a room in Willa Björksten.
Keskuskatu 21, Kotka Loviisa Camping
Beach Hotel Santalahti
Hotelli Uninen
Pyhtään Vuokramökit
A wonderfully relaxing holiday in
Mr & Mrs Uninen (Sleepy)
Located within the archipelago are
Mussalo, embraced by the sea! Enjoy
accomodate tourists in the very
these well equipped seaside cottages
delicious breakfasts, lunches and
heart of Loviisa in well-equipped and
of varying sizes (for larger groups too),
dinners in a marine setting.
spacious rooms.
and with sunset views. Located just
Mastotie 1, Kotka
Santalahti Resort
SpaHotel Hamina
Hamina Camping
A five-star resort with several
Cozy hotel in the middle of idyllic and
Stay in a tent, RV or cottage and enjoy
accommodation options - from log
historic Hamina. Hotel rooms include
nature, local homemade pastries at
cabins to luxury apartments. It’s also a
free access to the pool area.
the café and the magnificent beach at
Santalahdentie 150, Kotka
46
over an hour from Helsinki. Brandensteininkatu 17, Loviisa
Sibeliuskatu 32, Hamina
Vilniementie 375, Hamina
Munapirtti, Pyhtää
Rönnäs Seaside Resort
Suomen Kotteria
Mäntyniemi Hotel
Year-round cottage accommodation
Year-round villas by the river and the sea
Stay overnight in a beautiful nature
with modern amenities in a peaceful
in Pyhtää and Kotka provide a nature
setting by the sea surrounded by pine
setting in the seaside scenery of Loviisa.
experience with modern amenities.
trees. The hotel houses a restaurant, a bar and a cosy garden.
Hamina Camping.
great location for all outdoor activities.
Kapteenintie 1, Loviisa
Merikaari 1, Isnäs
Pyhtää & Kotka
Mäntyniementie 268, Siltakylä
47
Culture
Kotka City Theatre
Shopping Make wonderful flea market and boutique finds. Bistro
Immerse yourself in the tales told by the century-old
& Butik Kronan in Loviisa is known for its cakes, Dutch
professional theatre in the centre of Kotka. Kotka City
cheeses and Belgian chocolates. The White Vintage
Theatre offers 6 to 7 premieres every year, performing
shop next to it is – quite justifiably – known as a genuine
on two stages in the theatre building, Suuri and Naapuri,
treasure trove among the locals. Add to this Krinti in
and in Restaurant Kairo nearby.
Suolatori (Salt Square) and you’ll be as close to heaven as any interior design enthusiast can be.
What would be a better way to enjoy culture in Kotka than a theatre premiere! Approach the theatre along
If you’re looking for more handicraft, head to Strömfors
the Kotka Sculpture Promenade, and you’ll find the door
Ironworks and to Seppälä sheep farm and the Salpa Line
to the theatre behind Olavi Mantere’s sculpture Ovid’s
Museum in Miehikkälä. In Hamina, glass art shop Sevenon
Dance.
is a must! When in Kotka, you can pick souvenirs in the Vellamo and Maretarium shops.
Keskuskatu 15, Kotka
Kymi Sinfonietta
Galleries
Kymi Sinfonietta’s extensive and praised repertoire and
The charming galleries invite you to learn about local
high-quality concerts, performed with passion by Finnish
art. Take a cultural trip to Loviisa to Galleria Sylvi or Riitta
and international top artists, have created an audience
Nelimarkka’s Bonga Castle. Check out the exhibitions in
that always wants to hear more. One of the top orchestras
Stockfors and Strömfors, and Finland’s largest outdoor
in the country, the unique Kymi Sinfonietta, was formed
gallery in Kotka. Don’t forget to visit Galleria Uusikuva and
when the town orchestras of Kotka and Kouvola united
Savante Art, too. In Hamina, you should visit the charming
in 1999.
and historic Galleria Ruutikellari area and see the art on
Keskuskatu 33, Kotka
48
display.
Shopping
Vaalimaa in Virolahti
Shopping Centre Pasaati
Havi OutletPop
Discover your inner cosmopolitan by
Shopping centre Pasaati, focusing on
Pop in Hovinsaari’s historical factory
shopping in Vaalimaa, Virolahti.
fashion and interior decoration, is
surroundings to buy wonderful
Pamper yourself with the offers and
located in Keskuskatu, right in the heart
candles and tableware. You can buy,
services in the Zsar Outlet Village and
of Kotka. All the shops are under the
among others, products by Havi,
Scandinavian Shopping Center. They
same roof in Pasaati, where you can
Moomin Characters, Finlayson, Nupu
are only a 30-minute drive from Hamina,
stop by for items, such as new clothes
and Muurla at discount prices.
and two hours from the Helsinki region.
for your children, in the same location.
Rouvanmäentie 3, Vaalimaa
Keskuskatu 10, Kotka
Runeberginkatu 25, Kotka
49
Hidden gems and endless adventures await on the East Coast of Finland! What a joy of discovery! Book your stay: visitkotkahamina.travel/en visitkotkahamina.fi/en info@visitkotkahamina.fi +358401356588
50
51
visitkotkahamina.fi/en
52