Pohjola route takes place in the northern part of Finland, next to the arctic archipelago of Bothnian Bay. Welcome!
About the Pohjola route
Pohjola route
Pohjola route is a travel destination in the northern part of Finland, next to the Gulf of Bothnia and the border of Lapland. In Pohjola Route you can experience the diversity of Finland; from one region you can find the coast and archipelago, the wealth of forests and rivers & lakes, fells, and geological wonders. You can travel and experience the Pohjola Route by car, caravan, bicycle, or by utilizing public transportation. You can also do day trips by bus from Oulu to different locations along the Route. Pohjola is a journey that goes from cities to fells, from forests to the sea. It’s the journey that Pohjola Route offers for you to experience. On its route, everyone can freely pick and choose which part of it they want to encounter – you can journey through it all or travel it in parts.
The word “Pohjola” means “the North”. Its roots lie deep in the northern state of mind and in the origins of Finnish mythology. A classical view of Pohjola is of an area known as the birthplace of Finland. It originated from the ancient battles of the mythical Kalevala, lent its shine from the Pole Star, and made its way to modern days on a long, meandering road through Finnish history. A modern Pohjola is all the peace and quiet that comes with the North: the ascetic, rough nature, and the freedom to make choices and choose one’s path under the Northern skies.
Pohjola is beautiful. It is the heart of Finland and the country’s spirit at its most authentic.
Basic info about the Pohjola route
Along the Pohjola route, you can find nine unique waypoints and travel destinations. Pohjola Route is, in its entirety, almost 900 kilometers long. It can be explored by car, caravan, motorcycle – or even by bicycle! At each destination, you can experience local culture, and fun activities, trek, explore the surrounding nature, enjoy arctic flavors and spend your night in charming and unique accommodations.
Open sea
Pohjola Route runs along the coast of Gulf of Bothnia from Kemi and Oulu all the way to Raahe. Make a little detour along the way to Hailuoto, a unique island where the long, sandy beaches, the glimmering blue sea, and the quaint, traditional villages add an injection of bliss to your holiday.
River basin district
The rivers flowing to the Gulf of Bothnia are important landmarks in Finland’s history. Pohjola Route travels via 15 rivers, taking its traveller to the origins of many of the waterways. The rivers are lined by farmland and green fields swaying in the wind.
Wealth of forests
Pohjola – the North – is where Finland was born. It’s where lush forests grow, undulating with ridges and dunes. The clean lakes and swamps sprinkled with marsh tea have visitors fall silent. Rokua Geopark is one of the most spectacular destinations for exploring forests.
Fells
The trails and routes running along the southernmost fell area in Finland represent the freedom of the north at its most beautiful. At the heart of the fell area is Syöte National Park, adding versatility and variance to the Pohjola Route.