Summer Mini-Vacation in the Raahe Region

Discover the Historic Old Town Raahe and the Award-Winning Archipelago

Stepping into Old Town Raahe is like traveling back to the 19th century. Old Town Raahe is one of the best-preserved wooden towns in Finland. Guided walking tours offer fascinating stories about Raahe’s past as a hub of maritime trade. In Old Town Raahe, you’ll find Finland’s longest wall and many other Instagrammable spots!

The Raahe Museum sites take you back in time. At the Packhouse Museum, you can admire treasures brought back by sailors from distant lands and Mikael Balt’s impressive 17th-century church carvings. In the upstairs of the Sovelius House, the oldest surviving residential building in Raahe, you’ll find the interior museum of the Shipowner’s Home. The Crown Granary Museum houses the world’s oldest diving suit The Old Gentleman. The scent of medicinal herbs from bygone days lingers in the Old Pharmacy.

Enjoy coffee and cake at the historic Trade House of Lang, beautifully restored with respect for the merchant manor’s history. At the end of the day, have a leisurely dinner at Raahe’s Hovi. Whether you prefer a historical ambiance or a hotel stay, Raahe offers various accommodation options.

There is an entire art tour to enjoy for art enthusiasts. You’ll find changing art exhibitions at Raahe Event House's Galleria Myötätuuli, the Raahesali foyer gallery, the public living room Praati, and Raahe’s library. Right across from the library is the charming Kari Juva Sculpture Park. If you wish to buy local art or crafts, visit Kuutostiimi or Raahe’s Taitopaja.

The Raahe Archipelago was awarded the Best Excursion Destination in 2016. Go on an archipelago cruise, take a self-guided boat trip, or rent kayaking equipment. In the Raahe Archipelago, you’ll find both sandy beaches and historical "pookis"—daymarks from the 19th century. On the island of Iso-Kraaseli, you’ll discover a historic pilot cabin, once used to guide maritime traffic. You can also book the pilot cabin and the sail sheds in the yard as accommodation for your group.

If you’re traveling by camper, set your destination to SF Caravan Lohenpyrstö, a beautiful campsite by the sea. Nearby, you’ll find Matti Lepistö’s unique sculpture park with 300 statues.

Enjoy Nature Tourism at Its Best in Siikajoki

In the scenic heart of Siikajoki, you’ll find the Raahe Region Golf, where you can enjoy a summer day on the golf course without long waits. Experience the unforgettable charm of midsummer by playing golf throughout the night! In addition to the golf course, guests have access to a restaurant, sauna facilities, accommodation, and a camping area.

If you’d rather spend a summer day on a sandy beach, head to the naturally beautiful Tauvo or Varessäikkä in Siikajoki. Both beaches are favorites among sunbathers and are suitable for boaters too. The shallow swimming waters and gentle sandy shores are perfect for families with young children. Tauvo’s waves are some of the best for surfing in Northern Finland. In Varessäikkä, you’ll find a lighthouse-like tower for birdwatching.

For those seeking the cozy atmosphere of an old house, Törmälä Farm offers comfortable accommodation. In addition to hotel-standard rooms, the yard features four year-round cottages equipped with modern amenities for 4–5 people. The Sauna House by the riverside includes three different saunas and a cozy sauna lounge. Nearby, you’ll find a kota (Lappish hut) and a hot tub.

Experience Local Rural Life in Pyhäjoki 

If you enjoy museums, be sure to visit the Annala Local Heritage Museum in Pyhäjoki. The charming museum area has 22 buildings containing nearly 8,000 items, showcasing rural life before the era of tractors. The area also hosts changing exhibitions, concerts, summer theater performances, and other events.

In Pyhäjoki there is also the oldest "tukiansassilta" (a wooden Finnish bridge type) still in use in Finland. Built in 1837, the Etelänkylä Great Bridge is a national road museum site. Next to the bridge is the short Kielosaari Nature Trail, which leads through small islands along river landscapes.

You can also enjoy the river’s flow at Hourunkoski Rapids Park, where the rocks and scenic views invite you for a summer picnic.

As evening falls, head to Pyhäjoki’s historic parsonage, where the Wild Goose Cultural Center offers unique accommodation alongside artistic experiences.