Visit Haapavesi and prepare for surprises: the small but lively town offers stunning lakeside landscapes, culture and recreation on the magnificent Kylpyläsaari island.
Haapavesi is known for its rich history and its rapid changes: the town constructed a modern stone-built church to replace the 18th century wooden church that burnt down in 1981.
A holiday in Haapavesi is perfect for people who want to go, see and do on their holidays. Haapavesi is 60 miles from Oulu airport.
Haapavesi's history is documented all way back to the Stone Age, when the Ainali lake area was inhabited. No doubt the ancient inhabitants were attracted by River Pyhäjoki with its rich fish stocks. The landscapes represent Ostrobothnian plains.
In Ainali, you will find one of Finland's most important bird lakes, where you may be able to spot rare birds during the spring and autumn migrations.
Haapavesi also has long traditions as a school parish – it was here that Northern Finland's first folk school was established in 1870. Find out about days gone by at the Haapavesi School Museum, which has a folk school classroom fitted out in the 1950s style and a pupils' chamber.
Haapavesi local history museum displays traditional kantele instruments from the area, long Haapavesi wooden skis and rooms decorated in various styles. Visit the museum on a Wednesday or Thursday when the small café is open.
The Lönninkartano manor house was designed by Finland's first female architect, Wivi Lönn.
If you are looking for nature and recreation, head for the beautiful beaches of Kylpyläsaari island in Lake Haapajärvi, close to the centre of Haapavesi. Accommodation is in the form of cottages and a campsite. You can also rent a canoe, pedalo or SUP board, or go for a sauna and soak in a hot tub. For an even more exotic experience, climb aboard the sauna raft.
Haapavesi is well-known for the Haapavesi Folk Music festival, which is held in late June and early July. There is also something for music-lovers at other times of year.
On your holiday in Haapavesi, you can find out about local livelihoods, from agriculture to peat production. Piipsanneva, located on the eastern border of Haapavesi, has the most extensive contiguous marshlands for peat production in Europe. Make your next holiday an active one – book a weekend break in Haapavesi.
