Experience the best of Helsinki Nature through 4 unique spots for all seasons.
They are all suitable for a day trip and don’t require much planning:
- Lammassaari – Sheep Island
- Vallisaari – Rampart Island
- Haagan Alppiruusupuisto – The Rhododendron Park
- Keskuspuisto – Helsinki’s Central Park
Lammassaari – The Sheep Island
Located near the Vanhankaupunginkoski rapids in Helsinki, Lammassaari, or “Sheep Island,” is a fascinating destination for nature lovers and families alike.
Despite its name, there are no sheep on Lammassaari itself but you can find them on the nearby Kuusiluoto island during the summer months
We suggest entering the island through the Matinkaari bridge so you can get a view of the island from one side and the rapids on the other side.
Helsinki Nature in Lammassaari
In Lammassaari you will find rich bird life, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The area features several birdwatching towers and hides, offering stunning views of the surrounding wetlands and waters.
Thousands of migratory birds visit the area each spring and autumn, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts
Seals, Otters, and Other Animals Near Lammassaari
Not many know that it is possible to see seals near Lammassaari! In fact, Vanhankaupunginkosken suvanto is a wildlife refuge where it is possible to see wild grey seals and Baltic-ringed seals during the cold months of February and March.
Moreover, you can also see deer and foxes, especially from the birdwatching tower!
How To Reach Lammassaari
Lammassaari is accessible via a 1.2 km long duckboard path from Pornaistenniemi, which offers a unique experience of walking over wetlands. The path is part of the Luonnon syli nature trail, providing an accessible route for visitors to explore the area.
The island is also connected to Kuusiluoto where you can find sheeps during the summer. Just walk over the boardwalk, and explore the area.
Lammasaari Island’s southern shore is home to a charming cluster of summer cottages, where locals gather to socialize and enjoy the warm evenings and weekends.
A mix of newly painted façades and weathered dwellings stood alongside one another, a testament to the island’s eclectic and changing landscape.
Remember to respect private spaces.
Vallisaari – The Rampart Island
Vallisaari is a treasure of nature and history.
Located just off the coast of Helsinki, Vallisaari is an enchanting island that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance.
This former military island, between Suomenlinna and Santahamina, was opened to the public in 2016 and has since become a popular destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Helsinki Nature and Natural Diversity
Vallisaari is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, making it the most diverse nature destination in the Helsinki metropolitan area. Helsinki Nature is thriving on the island which is home to:
- Bats: Several protected species of bats, including ground bats, mustached bats, and water bats, inhabit the island’s forts, old buildings, and caves.
- Butterflies and Moths: Over 1,000 species of butterflies and moths. While many of them are rare or endangered they thrive on the island.
- Birds: The island’s lush vegetation provides a habitat for various bird species, such as icterine warblers and thrush nightingales.
- Badgers: These nocturnal mammals can be spotted after sunset.
- Deer: Occasionally seen roaming the island
Cultural and Historical Significance
Vallisaari has a rich military history, with fortifications dating back to the 19th century. The island was used by the Russian Army and later by the Finnish Defence Forces.
You can explore well-preserved historical buildings and fortifications, including the Aleksanterinpatteri observation deck, which offers stunning views of Helsinki
How To Reach Vallisaari
The island is open from May to September, with services available during this period.
You can easily reach it with a 20-minute ferry ride from Helsinki’s Market Square.
- Stay on Marked Trails: To protect the island’s nature and historical sites.
Vallisaari is a must-visit destination that is still not touristy.
Haagan Alppiruusupuisto – The Rhododendron Park
Located in Etelä-Haaga, Helsinki, Haagan Alppiruusupuisto, or the Rhododendron Park, is a hidden gem that transforms into a vibrant floral paradise each June.
This eight-hectare park is not only a stunning natural attraction but also a unique experimental garden cultivated by the University of Helsinki.
The park is a jewel in the repertoire of Helsinki nature featuring nearly 3,000 rhododendron hybrids and azaleas. The floral variety creates a kaleidoscope of colors during the blooming season, typically the first two weeks of June.
Cultural and Social Significance
The park was established in 1975 as part of the University of Helsinki’s plant breeding program. The program focused on developing rhododendron varieties suitable for Finland’s climate.
The horticultural research is accompanied by a strong community engagement. The park attracts thousands of visitors during the blooming season, making it a popular community event.
When To Visit
While early June is the best time to see the rhododendrons in bloom, the park remains a beautiful green oasis throughout the year.
The park is easily accessible by public transport. Take the train to Huopalahti station, just about 300 meters from the park.
Keskuspuisto – Helsinki’s Central Park & Forest
This expansive green space stretches approximately 10 kilometers from Töölönlahti Bay in the south to Haltiala on the northern border of the city, offering a serene escape from the urban bustle.
Helsinki Nature Natural Beauty and Wildlife
Keskuspuisto is not just a park; it’s a diverse natural sanctuary. The area includes vast woodlands, landscape fields, and meadows, providing a habitat for a wide range of wildlife. Visitors can spot animals like foxes, rabbits, and the occasional deer. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with species such as the woodpecker and the nightingale calling it home
Recreational Activities and Sport
Whether you enjoy hiking, cycling, or cross-country skiing, Keskuspuisto has something for everyone. The park features over 100 kilometers of trails. During the winter, some trails become ski tracks for the pleasure of skiers.
For cycling enthusiasts, there’s a 16 km mountain bike trail that winds through the park’s varied terrain. The trail offers both scenic views and challenging routes.
Cultural Significance and History
Established in 1914, Keskuspuisto has a rich history and cultural significance. It was envisioned as the ‘lungs’ of Helsinki, providing a natural oasis within the city. Over the years, it has evolved to accommodate various recreational activities while maintaining its ecological balance.
Getting There
The park is easily accessible by public transport. Several bus routes and bike paths connect it to the city center.
Explore the hiking trails, visit the sports facilities like Pirkkolan liikuntapuisto, or enjoy a leisurely bike ride.
Spring and summer offer lush greenery, while winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing.
In every season, you can accompany your nature experience with a good coffee and a blueberry pie from a cozy café in the forest – Maunulan Maja.