White nights, summer in the city

Raimo Törhönen describes his exhibition as “kind of retro”, as the works exhibited open a window into the artist’s thinking and how it has developed over the years. Törhönen’s work is characterised by serialism and repeating themes, to which he returns over and over with new variations.  

To Raimo Törhönen, art is a way of communicating, and making art is his way of exploring the reality. His works frequently feature human beings and animals, especially dogs, creating images that evoke presence or memory and often echo the fragility, mystery, and beauty of existence.

The large gallery on the first floor of the museum and the Tasku (“Pocket”) dark gallery feature paintings and object art by Raimo Törhönen. Gallery A showcases new paintings completed for the exhibition. They are accompanied by a selection of works from private collections and other museums, many of them featuring animal motifs and portraits – both subjects dear by the artist.

The dark Tasku gallery holds a selection of Törhönen’s sculptural object art with many of the artworks based on objects found on the street or in the environment. They also reflect the artist’s love of serialism and explore the themes of borders and control.

Raimo Törhönen (born 1960 in Hyvinkää, Finland) is a visual artist whose method is to shut out all verbal thinking and other distractions while painting to establish a private space and a one-on-one contact with the work at hand. Törhönen’s studio is on the island of Pikisaari near downtown Oulu. In addition to painting, he creates sculptural works, installations, and environmental art. His works are featured in the collections of Oulu Museum of Art and the Aine Art Museum in Tornio. Törhönen has also created a number of public artworks, including two murals in Oulu.

What would happen if we used our imagination more? Is it possible to think up new rules, or to become free from the existing ones? Is it possible to devise alternative endings?

PLAY, an exhibition of works by Kaija Hinkula, invites us to look at our everyday environment from a new perspective.  The title of the exhibition refers to playing, games and stage plays. Imagination and freedom were the starting points in the artist’s work on a spatial installation of paintings where everyday elements assume new poses and positions. 

Kaija Hinkula’s artistic work operates within the field of expanded painting, where conventional two-dimensional paintings expand into spatial experiences. In this expanded field, colours, paint, and compositions familiar from the tradition of painting combine with the methods of sculpture, and time and space arts.

For the artist, PLAY is also a study of the exhibition space. In its rich play of colours, the work finds its place near the tradition of post-minimalist art, where sparse geometrical shapes are accompanied by reflections on the society. The painting installation takes over Gallery C with elements that integrate into the supporting structures of the space and extend onto the floor. The artwork can be explored by strolling inside it.

Oulu-based visual artist Kaija Hinkula (born 1984 in Kuopio) has graduated as a visual artist from the Saimaa University of Applied Sciences in 2008 and as a Master of Fine Arts from the Helsinki Academy of Fine Arts in 2021. Hinkula has held solo exhibitions and participated in group exhibitions in Finland and abroad since 2007. Her works are featured in the State Art Deposit Collection and in the collections of Oulu Museum of Art. In 2021, Hinkula produced a public artwork named Kummeli (“Cairn”) to the Kanavaranta district in Oulu. Hinkula works in the K2 artist workspace in Hiukkavaara, Oulu.

The rich fields of Liminka, formerly seabed, are bright and spacious. The great expanse punctuated by rows of dark hay sheds was the physical and spiritual home of painter Vilho Lampi (1898–1936). In his home town of Liminka, Lampi painted self-portraits, the children of nearby farms, their interiors and the landscapes around them. Although Lampi’s artistic career spanned only 15 years, he experimented with various visual styles ranging from rough-hewn expressionism to New Objectivity and the delicate pointillism of his final years.

All his life, Lampi sought balance between his strong artistic calling and the work at his family farm Matinlauri. He spent his evenings and nights painting. Lampi’s summertime paintings radiate with the light of the late evening and the nightless night. The large and powerful paintings of his heroic period show individuals as hard, proud, even aggressive, while still lives made after a trip to Paris in 1931 using a very smooth painting technique highlight the artist’s own perception and the quiet significance of objects.

The exhibition shows Vilho Lampi’s key works from the 1920s and the 1930s. The collections of the Oulu Museum of Art are accompanied by works lent by museums, private collectors and companies. The exhibition also features virtual augmented reality (AR) models and soundscapes by Tiina Wallin, Otso Ritonummi and Saku Vääräniemi, students at the Oulu University of Applied Sciences.

In today’s world, images, looking and visual self-expression play a key role. Even though images surround us, art museums are still the next level. Relatively few of us acquire large collections of visual art to our homes, but in an art exhibition, everything there is yours and for you: experiences, interpretations, questions, insights, emotions. There is no sphere of life that art would not be able to speak of – and matters of taste are always subject to debate.

Art is often said to be difficult, but it is no more difficult than life in general. You live and you see. The more you are exposed to art, the more it gives back. Becoming curious about art is at least recommended as becoming an art expert.

Oulu has a long tradition of visual arts. Numerous professional artists work in the city, and it is home to many artists of international renown. Many of the surrounding towns, such as Liminka, Hailuoto, Ii, Tyrnävä and Pudasjärvi, are active in various arts – thanks to the artists and other individuals and organisations working in the field of art. The art museum is different from other Luuppi destinations because it has, in addition to a recording and researching role, an identity as an art body. It collaborates closely with the artists of the region. The exhibitions of the Oulu Museum of Art provide a thorough cross-section of the visual arts of the region, explore different themes and collections, and showcase highlights from Finnish and international art. Touring exhibitions are arranged to the surrounding region, and children learn about art in kindergarten art exhibitions. You don’t always have to go far: you can learn a lot about contemporary art and art of all eras and periods by visiting the art museum of your hometown.

The building that houses the art museum is also quite attractive and charming. It is the glorious second life of the old Brothers Åström factory building 22 that used to house the tanning factory’s offices and the canteen.

Lapland Hotels Oulu offers you a chance to experience Lapland in the heart of a city. The hotel is situated in the centre of Oulu, next to the Cathedral and the historical Ainola park, and its 160 rooms have been decorated with skill and style to suit the taste of even the most quality conscious guests. The design of our rooms was influenced by nature and the stories of Lapland. The party and conference facilities of Ynninkulma bring the atmosphere and the story close to you.

Lappish peace or mystique – it’s up to you.

The Kierikki Stone Age Centre takes you back in time thousands of years into the distant past of the North. The Kierikki Centre is located along the Iijoki River on a Stone Age dwelling site that has been studied since the 1960s. Guests of all ages enjoy the archaeological exhibition in the main building and the Stone Age village.

Enjoy the most beautiful sights of Oulu on a mountain bike.

The sightseeing experience on mountain bikes begins at the famous Toripoliisi-statue of Oulu Market Square from where we’ll walk to the nearby starting point of the actual cycling.

From there the tour is directed through the historical Pikisaari island, which is a remnant of the Old Town of Oulu, and two the beautiful seaside and park scenery of Hietasaari. In Nallikari we’ll also drive across the beach and stop by the Nallikari lighthouse. During its latter part the route weaves through the gorgeous Hupisaaret park area concluding back at the Market Square. The route follows bicycle routes as well as off-road trails.

During this 2,5-hour tour you get to experience Oulu at its most beautiful. This trip is a great experience for travellers but also for the people of Oulu.

During thawed ground (from spring to fall) the trip can be executed with fatbikes and more narrow-tired mountain bikes. During winter the trip is only executed with fatbikes.

Fatbike is a bicycle with oversized tires. Their low tire pressure enables their use on soft and unstable terrains such as snow and sand. The trip is suited for anyone with basic fitness.

The delta of River Oulu is a diverse paddling location providing both cultural and natural scenery as well as a unique perspective on the cityscape of Oulu. This safari offers the delta area as its finest.

In the beginning we’ll teach the basics of kayaking and go carefully through the safety features. Then we’ll start a safari with the length of approximately 7 kilometers led by a trained and experienced paddling instructor and carried out with single seated kayaks.

The trip is well suited for beginners and doesn’t require swimming skills.

You have 60 minutes, can you get out..?

Can you escape the infamous Alcatraz? Or find the Dead Man’s Island in Caribbean in a pirate ship? Or solve mysteries of a famous magician?
Exit Oulu is the biggest room escape game organiser in Oulu with 12 differently themed games in four locations all located conveniently in Oulu city centre.

Each of our 12 games is designed to be played by team of 2-6 persons, so we can host games for up to 70 players at the same time.

There are bars in our Rotuaari and Uusikatu 22 venues. We can also provide catering services for groups. (Pre-booking required.)

Varjakka has a colourful history full of local stories. The island houses an old sawmill that is important for reasons of both cultural history and architecture. The collection of buildings around the sawmill is an intact entity and rare by international standards. It has also been declared a nationally significant cultural environment. Varjakka is located just over 20 kilometres from Oulu city centre.

The island of Varjakka was a ship and renovation dock in the 19th century, before seeing its golden age in the early 20th century when the largest sawmill in the Nordic countries operated on the island. The island and the Varjakka area on the continent constituted a sawmill community that used to employ as many as 700 people.

Nowadays, the island is a forested destination of natural beauty. You can reach it in the summertime with your own boat, a kayak, a SUP board, or a hand-winched block ferry – an unforgettable experience especially if you are travelling with children. You can explore the island on your own or hire a guide. The Varjakka area also has a beach, the all-year Warjakka Art Trail, and a B&B accommodation.

South of Varjakka Island, there is the 263-hectare nature reserve of Akionlahti, a popular resting place for migrating birds. The area has a nature trail, a tower for birdwatching, and a campfire site.

The beautiful pearly beach, spectacular sunsets, high-quality accommodation, and vast selection of recreational outdoor activities have earned Nallikari the nickname ‘Riviera of the North’. The Nallikari beach attracts not only sunbathers but also beach sports lovers.

A family seeking adventure can try out the gigantic climbing net on the beach or storm the well-equipped playground. In the winter, the vastness of the Bothnian Bay offers a range of possibilities for walking, skiing, or snowshoeing on the sea ice. You may also catch kite skiers or fatbikers speeding on the ice. If you fancy a day trip, discover the trails, birdwatching tower, and campfire sites around Hietasaari Island for recreation throughout the year. Accessibility has been considered for the summertime routes.

The protected area of Letonniemi is an important destination for education and research of post-glacial rebound, showcasing seaside nature and how areas like this turn from sea into forest. It is located only six kilometres from the city centre. A 2.7-kilometre nature trail provides a great opportunity to discover the lush and versatile vegetation. Along the trail, there is an old seafaring navigation device, now standing on solid ground 150 metres from the shore in the middle of the woods. The small lighthouse was built in the 1940s to guide ships to Toppila harbour. In those days, sea level was much higher than today, and Piispanletto in the middle of the area was still an island – the word “letto” means a small, bare island in the local dialect.

In Piispanletto, you will find a resting shelter with a campfire site and a birdwatching tower for the best view of the coast and the sea. Taking and harming of plants and plant parts is forbidden in Letonniemi protected area. Picking berries and mushrooms is allowed, however.

The Pilpasuo mire is a great destination for a family day trip and a unique northern experience, about 20 km from Oulu city centre. Most of the mire was formed on an ancient 3,000-year-old coastal meadow. One of the area’s rarities of is the raised beach of Ala-Korkiakangas. The top is covered by boulder soil, which was a little island in the sea 6,500 years ago.

The changing seasons bring out the versatility of the protected area of Pilpasuo. In the summertime, the nature trails attract visitors to take daytime hikes and relax by campfires in the nature. In the autumn, it is a good for berry and mushroom picking. During the winter, Pilpasuo is ideal for Aurora hunting on skis or snowshoes. Pilpasuo has two duckboarded nature trails with fun, nature-themed task points along them for a brain workout.

The shorter one-kilometre trail is especially suited for families with children. You can recognise the trail by the red route markers. The longer seven-kilometre trail has eight task points and is marked with blue. There are designated campfire sites along the trails.

Relax in a lovely traditional wood-heated sauna. Silence and candlelight relax the mind and body. Guests can book their own sauna session at an additional cost. The sauna can accommodate 7 people at a time. On the terrace you can cool off and enjoy the countryside. The sauna is heated on request. Watch the stars and northern lights in luxury! In addition to the sauna, there is a wonderful, large whirlpool that can accommodate up to 8 people. Sauna and jacuzzi are heated on request as it takes around 5 hours.

Warjakka B&B provides relaxed and friendly accommodation near the coast of Bothnia Bay, just 10 min from Oulu airport, 10 min from Hailuoto ferry and 20 min from Oulu city center.
Perfect for couples, families and small groups of up to 20 people looking for some quiet time in the countryside.
Welcome to our home!

With its splendid sunsets, Nallikari is home to a lighthouse – actually, a lookout tower – that is a must for countless holiday photos and a landmark loved by locals. The unique landmark was completed in 1988 and designed by architects of the Oulu School of Architecture. The tower offers excellent opportunities for taking photos, enjoying the sea view, or staring at stars late in late evening. This is a popular spot for taking unhurried promenades, snapping selfies, or just spending quiet time by the calm sea. Romantics find their way to the lighthouse for summer sunsets.

In the summer, the lookout tower offers a view over the pearly Nallikari Beach as sunbathers crowd the Riviera of the North. In wintertime, you can watch locals spend hours ice-fishing, skiing, fatbiking, or kite skiing. When darkness falls, you may also be lucky enough to spot the Northern Lights flickering across the night sky.

When you reach the Market Square and its landmarks – the Market Hall, the old granaries, and the Market Square Policeman’s statue keeping the peace – you know you have arrived in the local people’s summertime living room.

From early morning on, the summery Market Square bustles with travellers and local residents, along with vegetable and food vendors as well restaurant keepers serving customers till late evening. The old, multi-coloured granaries house not only restaurants but also tiny, charming boutiques selling handicraft products, clothes, and decoration items.

Patrolling in front of the Market Hall and keeping a watchful eye on the visitors is the Market Square Policeman, a plump statue as a reminder of the times when real policemen were guarding the area. The vibrant harbour and export hub of the 18th century gradually became less busy, and the market area became a meeting place for city folk and visitors from the countryside. The policement were needed for upholding law and order.

Over centuries, Oulu Market Square has offered its visitors a year-round, lively meeting and trading place which has also required guarding. A peculiar feature in the local policing history were the Market Square policemen who kept an eye on the Market Square and maintained order there. Through them, the townspeople and those who came from the province became acquainted first-hand with the authorities and the police.

The era of Market Square policemen in Oulu lasted from 1934 until 1979. After the patrolling ended, the policemen were commemorated through a citizen’s fundraiser for erecting a bronze statue in front of the Market Hall. The Market Square Policeman’s statue was designed by sculptor Kaarlo Mikkonen.

Standing at 2.2 metres, the robust policeman with his cap and Sam Browne belt has become a symbol of Oulu over the years and is a popular choice for selfie buddies. So go ahead and snap a friendsie with the jolly Policeman and prove you were really in Oulu!

Just a stone’s throw from Oulu Market Square, you can find the lovely, pastel-coloured Tähtitorni Café, which has served as a summer café since 1912. The idyllic setting invites you to experience an interesting piece of history while enjoying a nice cup of coffee – you are sitting on top of the renovated foundations of Oulu Castle which was destroyed in 1793 when the gunpowder storage blew up. From the observation tower, you have a nice view of Pikisaari Island where a stone from the castle landed in the explosion. The stone is still there.

Finished in 1875 according to a design by Wolmar Westling, the building with its observation tower originally belonged to Oulu Maritime School. More than 200 sea captains graduated from the school.

In the summer, the castle cellar is home to an exhibition about the history of the castle. For centuries, people have tried to find a rumoured, secret passage from Linnansaari Island to the city. Can you find it?

An idyllic wooden district, old industrial milieu and unique artists’ community awaits travellers who cross the pedestrian bridge from the Market Square to Pikisaari Island. In the 17th century, ships were built in Pikisaari. Later, Oulu became an international tar capital and tar products were made here. Related, old storage buildings have since been renovated for new use.

The Pikisaari wooden district has evolved around genuine artisanship and is an interesting destination for the cultural traveller. Here you can find original wooden houses, a unique community of artists, the Sailor’s Home Museum, a two-kilometre hiking trail around the island, and charming restaurants.

The restored old Wool Mill and other buildings now provide workspace for artists and craftspeople, as well as homes, an art gallery, and restaurants. The unique island also offers accommodation with character.

Oulu used to be a notable seafaring town in the 19th century and the most important tar harbour in the world. A significant number of the residents were sailors by profession. Their families lived in small wooden houses on the edge of town, like the Matila house now known as the Sailor’s Home Museum. Originally built in 1739, it is the oldest preserved wooden house in Oulu.

Just a ten-minute walk from the city centre, Kuusisaari Island offers a variety of recreational opportunities and an active day out in a wonderful setting by the river. The island’s campfire sites are regularly used throughout the year, and plenty of fishing spots are available, too. The spacious lawns provide a great setting for enjoying a sunny summer day on a relaxed picnic, for example.

For those in search of active leisure activities, street basketball is the best way to get fit! At the end of the day, you can take a dip in the river or watch the local football club play at the nearby stadium. By the way, Kuusisaari is also the number one location to watch in Oulu’s lively summer calendar. Festivals, concerts, and other events will take you to holiday mood with rock, pop, and metal music every summer.

One of the most important buildings in Oulu by cultural history standards is the Market Hall which has served its customers since 1901. The building was designed in neo-Gothic fashion by Karl Lindhal and Valter Thomé, and a massive reconstruction finished in 2020 restored its old-time glory.

Some of the current merchants have operated in the Market Hall for decades. They stock a multitude of products for gifts and souvenirs, including beautiful and unique handicraft products, clothes, and other lovely gift shop items. This is also a great place for buying high-quality local food produce and organic ingredients for festive or everyday occasions. Popping in for breakfast of a hearty bowl of salmon soup is not a bad idea either!

A walking distance from the city centre, you will find the historical industrial complex of Brothers Åstrom tannery. Since 1988, the former steam power plant of the tannery has housed the first science centre in Finland – Tietomaa Science Centre. The tower standing next to the centre was designed by Birger Federley and completed in 1921. Originally it served as the tannery’s water tower. Now the tower offers a wonderful view of the estuary and over the city of Oulu.

You can reach the top observation deck at 35 metres easily with a panoramic lift. When descending along the staircase, you can enjoy the tower’s exhibitions and a Northern Lights presentation. You can buy tickets to the tower at the counter of the Science Centre.

On this ocean adventure we will learn the basic skills on paddling a stand up paddle board (SUP). We will also focus on how to paddle safely and on a sustainable manner protecting the nature.
This paddling trip suits beginners and experts alike. We will provide you with all the SUP equipment needed. Just wear some sporty clothing and bring your adventurous spirit – Lappis will take care of the rest. We will ensure You’ll have a relaxing and a memorable paddling experience. We will paddle on a slow and easy pace, everyone can tag along on this journey.
What is included: guidance in English, SUPboard, live vest, paddle and waterproof cellphone case
Good to know:
• This adventure requires basic physical fitness and is recommended for children of 10 years or older.

Start the day with your local guide who will introduce you the secrets of Fatbiking. Even though the fatbikes look sturdy, they are great fun to ride and surprisingly agile, giving you a feeling of floating even on rugged terrain. After the guided tour, the guide will give you the best tips to explore the beautiful nature by yourself.
What is included: guidance in English, helmet and fatbike
Good to know:
• This adventure requires basic physical fitness and is recommended for children of 10 years or older.

Our giant floating water park offers challenge and fun experiences for all ages! Adequate swimming skills are neccessary. The diverse obstacles include jumps, climping walls, a giant slide and an iceberg that will challenge everyone!

The water park is supervised by our staff and it’s for everyone over 6 years old with at least adequate swimming skills. A child between the ages of 6 and 10 must be accompanied by an adult guardian who constantly monitors the child in water park. For parents, we also offer family tickets.

You can rent wetsuits from us. Life jackets are mandatory and those are included to the ticket.

Raahe is full of history and maritime experiences!

Take a day trip from Oulu to Raahe for a full day of experiences! In Raahe, you can stroll through the atmospheric quarters of Old Town Raahe, stop at cafés and museums, shop in boutiques or enjoy a maritime experience on an archipelago cruise, by paddling or stand-up paddle boarding (SUP). Bicycle rental is also possible.

The Saaga Travel day trip bus to Raahe runs on Thursdays from 30 June to 4 August 2022 as a guaranteed departure. The trip is organized if there is at least one participant. The bus leaves from Kaarlenväylä street next to Oulu Market Square at 10.00.We will be back in the center of Oulu at 6 p.m.

We organize also private tours from Oulu to Raahe on request – ask for a quote!

Experience the lively atmosphere of the Stone Age at Kierikki Stone Age village on a day trip from Oulu!

Kierikki Stone Age Centre is beautifully located on the banks of the Iijoki River, less than an hour’s drive from Oulu. Kierikki is a combination of an archeological museum and modern log architecture. The Kierikki main building is one of the most magnificent and largest log buildings in Europe and it has won several awards and host to an archeological exhibition.

You can explore the outdoor area in Stone Age village on your own. There is a guide in the Stone Age village and nice things to do for the whole family. Guests can also explore the archeological excavations.

The café-restaurant in the main building offers a selection of refreshments, hot and cold drinks, as well as sweet and savory items. In the museum shop you will find personal souvenirs.

The Saaga Travel day trip from Oulu to Kierikki is organized on Saturdays from July 2 to August 6, 2022 as a guaranteed departure. If there is one participant, the tour is organized.

We organize also private tours from Oulu to Kierikki on request – ask for a quote!

De Gamlas Hem Hotel & Restaurant is fully renovated, 17 room boutique hotel in a heritage protected building near the centre of Oulu. As early as in 1906, the building was used to house, care for, and provide food for elderly upper-class women from Oulu. It was a private retirement home. Swedish fighter pilots were also housed in the building during the World War II. Today, we welcome you to this wooden Art Nouveau villa to enjoy some peace, quiet and delicious food among the beautiful ceramic tiled stoves and log walls.

We offer beautifully furnished and well-equipped guest rooms with high-quality, extremely comfortable beds. We want to ensure that all our guests enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep. To preserve the building’s historical and cultural value, the floor plans are original and unchanged. We are committed to make your stay unforgettable!

Koko perheen laji, jossa yhdistyvät ulkoilun riemu, yhdessä olo ja tarkkuuden harjoittaminen.

Täysmittainen 18-väyläinen metsärata, joka kiertää Illinsaaren ulkoilualuetta. Heittoalustat ja korit ovat sijoitettu kulkemaan pääsääntöisesti metsäväyliä pitkin. Rata alkaa Illinsaaren hiihtomajan takaa, ja radan kokonaispituus on noin 2 kilometriä. Rata on AA1-luokiteltu, joka tarkoittaa radan olevan paras edistyneemmille harrastajille pidempine väylineen, mutta luonnollisesti se on myös kaiken tasoisten harrastajien käytössä. Kierroksen kestoksi on arvioitu noin 90-120 minuuttia, mutta esimerkiksi taukoa voi pitää hieman ennen 11-väylän heittopaikkaa grillikodalla, jonka vieressä on myös WC.

Koitelinkoski is a wonderful nature destination for the whole family, only half an hour’s drive from Oulu.

In the area you can admire the rapids of the Kiiminkijoki River, walk on the nature trails on the islands of the river, have picnic on the rocks and campfire sites, or enjoy the delicacies of the café and ice cream kiosk. There are also play stands for children in the area.

The Saaga Travel day trip from Oulu to Koitelinkoski is organized on Fridays from 1 July to 12 August 2022 as a guaranteed departure. The trip is organized if there is at least one participant.

The bus leaves from Kaarlenväylä street from Oulu Market Square at 11.30. The total duration of the trip is 3.5 hours.

We organize also private tours from Oulu to Koitelinkoski on request – ask for a quote!

Experience charming Ii on a day trip from Oulu!

The tour starts from the historic district of Ii with a short introduction to the homeland museum exhibition, after which there is time to explore the old Ii historic district (Iin Wanha Hamina) on your own. Visit also the Ii Church and enjoy refreshments at Café Wanha Hamina.

Next, our trip continues to the Art Center KulttuuriKauppila, where we have a guided art exhibition tour.

At the end of the tour, we will visit the new suspension bridge in Jakkukylä. Completed in December 2021, the longest suspension bridge in northern Europe crosses the Iijoki River, which is almost 200 meters wide. The bridge has quickly become one of Ii’s most popular attractions.

The Saaga Travel day trip from Oulu to Ii is organized on Tuesdays 5.7., 12.7. and 19.7.2022 as a guaranteed departure. If there is one participant, the tour is organized. Duration of the trip is five hours.

We organize also private tours from Oulu to Ii on request.

Syöte area offers a wide range of opportunities for nature activities from sightseeing to hiking, mountain biking or berry-picking! For those looking for the charm of speed, we recommend downhill biking in Iso-Syöte Bike Park.

Syöte area is located 2 hours from Oulu and can be conveniently reached with Saaga Travel’s guaranteed weekly departures on Saturdays from July 2 to August 6, 2022.

The bus operates around the area during the day, so you can explore more Syöte destinations during the day.

Example itineraries for a perfect day in Syöte:

1. Syöte for landscape admirers
Get off the bus at the Syöte Visitor Centre. Check out the exhibition which tells about the history and nature of the area. Ask the Syöte Visitor Centre guides for suitable hiking tips and take a small walk along the trails in the Syöte National Park. Have lunch at the Visitor Centre or enjoy your own packed lunch during your small hike. Take the bus to the top of Iso-Syöte fell. Climb to the top of the fell and admire the scenery over the National Park. Enjoy afternoon refreshments in Hotel Iso-Syöte panoramic café-restaurant and visit the hotel’s rooftop Skywalk observation deck for last selfies and photos before the bus takes you back to Oulu.

2. E-fatbiking around the Iso-Syöte fell
Book e-fatbikes in advance from one of the rental shops. Pick up your bike and head for the 19-km Syötteen kierros trail. Bring your own packed lunch and swimming suit with you. Have a lunch break by one of the ponds along the trail and enjoy swimming before riding your bike back to Syöte. You can also swim in Luppovesi behind the KIDE Hotel after the biking tour. Eat a nice meal at the new restaurant Bistoria at KIDE Hotel before taking the bus back to Oulu.

We organize also private tours from Oulu to Syöte on request.

The unique Hailuoto is the largest island in the Gulf of Bothnia, where you can spend a varied summer day enjoying the outdoors, beach life, culture and good food.

The Saaga Travel day trip bus is an easy way to visit Hailuoto. The bus runs between Marjaniemi fishermen’s village, the village center and Ailasto during the day, so you can combine different destinations of the island to your visit.

Example itineraries for a perfect day in Hailuoto:

1. Go first to Marjaniemi fishermen’s village. Explore the beach, take photos, climb the lighthouse, enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants and buy freshly smoked fish from the smokery. Hop on the bus and go the Hailuoto village center. Visit Hailuoto Organic Brewery, enjoy locally produced beer in the atmospheric pub, and buy local handicrafts in Luovon Puoji just next to the brewery.

2. Get off the bus at Ailasto and make a nature excursion to Hyypänmäki, the highest point of Hailuoto (31 m) with interesting history. Enjoy lunch in Ailasto. Take the bus to Marjaniemi and take a swim in the sea before heading back to Oulu.

The Saaga Travel day trip from the center of Oulu to Hailuoto island is organized on Wednesdays and Sundays from June 29 to August 7, 2022 as a guaranteed departure. If there is one participant, the tour is organized.

We organize also private tours from Oulu to Hailuoto on request.

Amusement park Vauhtipuisto can be reached from the city center of Oulu and Nallikari beach with Vauhtipuisto ‘s own 52 – seat city train called Kompiainen. Kompiainen city train operates daily 27.6.-7.8.2022.

Nallikari – Vauhtipuisto 11.00, 12.00, 13.00, 14.00, 15.00, 16.00, 17.00

Vauhtipuisto – Oulu City Hall 11.10, 12.10, 13.10, 14.10, 15.10, 16.10, 17.10

Oulu City Hall – Vauhtipuisto 11.30, 12.30, 13.30, 14.30, 15.30, 16.30, 17.30

Vauhtipuisto – Nallikari 11.45, 12.45, 13.45, 14.45, 15.45, 16.45, 17.45

Kompiainen city train ride is included to Vauhtipuisto bracelet’s price. Without bracelet prices are for adults 8 euros and children 5-14 years 4 euros. Children under 5 years free of charge.

You can also buy Vauhtipuisto bracelets from a Kompiainen train with cash or credit card.

The thrill of speed in a fairground atmosphere. Vauhtipuisto is a fun place for children and the young-at-heart in Nallikari, near downtown Oulu. We offer a variety of rides for everyone, from the smallest members of the family right up to the slightly more grown up ones. Vauhtipuisto has everything from carousels to bouncy castles, a play-village for kids and miniature cars.

You can easily reach Vauhtipuisto by City train Kompiainen. Train operates from the city centre – Vauhtipuisto – Nallikari and back.

Opening hours 2022
Open 28.5.-7.8. every day 11-18.

Entrance

Free entrance in the area. Rides work with ticket or bracelet. Single ticket is 4 eur and bracelet is 20 euros under 110 cm child or adult and 26 euros over 110 cm child.

Kahvila Karuselli
Cafe Carousel (Kahvila Karuselli) in the area serves coffee, ice cream, paninis, candy, cotton candy etc.
Warmly welcome!

Welcome to guided bike tour from Nallikari to Oulu city center! We drive cycleways trough Pikisaari to city center. We visit Market Place, City Hall and Catherdral from outside. The tour ends in Nallikari. Guide will tell you information and stories from Oulu and Oulu region. You will get tips for shopping and events. You can rent bikes from Nallikari holiday village. Rental is not included in the price of tour. For families, small groups and companies.

Welcome to a minivan trip to Turkansaari Open Air Museum. The museum is located in three island in Oulujoki. The main themes of the museum are traditional agriculture and forestry, fishing and Oulu’s history of tar. We pick you up from Oulu city center and bring you back after the trip. The guide will be with you throughout the trip. From the guide you hear stories and information of Turkansaari, Oulu and Oulu region. Turkansaari Open Air Museum is open 6.6.-29.8. Mon-Sun from 10 a.m. to 18 p.m. In the museum area is Café, where you could have traditional salmon soup for lunch from 11 a.m. to 15 p.m. Tickets 10 € adult, children under 18 years free. Museum tickets and lunch are not included in the price of the trip. For Companies, groups and families.

Welcome to Oulu! Guided city walking tour.

History and present shortly told by an authorized tourist guide: Market Place, City Hall, Cathedral. Tips for places to visit, shopping and events.

Welcome to a minivan trip to Hailuoto. We pick you up from Oulu city center and bring you back after the trip. Guide will be with you troughout the trip. You hear stories and information from Hailuoto, Oulu and Oulu region. We visit Hailuoto Organum, wich is a concrete piece of spatial art by Hai Art in Ulkokarvo. The piece was designed by a distinguished acoustic artist, Lukas Kühne. We can enjoy snacks, in the nearby Petsamo hut, on an open fire. Then we drive to Marjaniemi, where you can get to know the area with guide or independently. Possibility for shopping also. If you like to have a meal in restaurant in Hailuoto, it is better to book advance. It is also possible to visit Hailuoto Brewery, when it is open. For companies, groups and families.

Guided transportation from Oulu Airport to your accommodation to Oulu city center. The guide will pick you or your group up from airport. On the way you will hear stories and information of Oulu and Oulu region. You will get tips of events and shopping. 30 min tour in Oulu city center is included.

KulttuuriKauppila Art Centre in Ii works to improve the position of visual artists in northern Finland and creates international connections in the field of art.

KulttuuriKauppila runs an artist residency, produces variety of exhibitions, Art Ii Biennial and provides studios for local artists and international art–education programme for schools of Ii.

Iijoki ja sen suistoalue Perämerellä tarjoavat upeita melontareittejä eri tasoisille harrastajille.

Esimerkkejä reiteistä:
– Hiastinlahden reitit – Helppo ja monipuolinen (2 – 8 km)
– Tangonsaaren kierros – Idyllinen salmi (10 km)
– Karhu ja Aallonmurtaja – Reitti ajettavissa myös pienmoottoriveneellä (5,5 -13 km)
– Röyttä ja Satakari – Haastava, avomeri (7 – 16 km)
– Kuivaniemellä: Merihelmi – Pankinnokka – Oolannin laavu – Vatungin kalasatama – Ryöskärinkalla.

Contemporary art by the river and in the heart of Ii.

The Environmental Art Park of Ii was first opened in June 2012 and now has become a popular site among locals and visitors. Every second year KulttuuriKauppila Art Centre organizes Art Ii Biennale (AIB) that produces international modern art.

Familiarise with the local culture, traditions and folklore.

The museum tells the story of life in Ii from the pre-historical times until present day with modern, recently renewed exhibitions. The museum area consists of four buildings: the old parish granary, the museum hall, old storage and the loggers building museum cafe Huilinki.

Free admission.

In the museum, you can learn about the life in the local iron age village or the early industrial history with a peculiar glass factory owner, Hourooti. Exhibitions display the local traditional livelihoods, fishing, farming and logging. Kids can try their skills in archaeology.

Don’t forget to stop by in the picturesque Wanha Hamina cafe for a coffee or a local delicacy.

Nauti Iijoen maisemista

Iin Jakkukylässä sijaitsevalta Purusaaren ulkoilualueelta avautuu upeat maisemat Iijoelle ja Jakkukylän kylänraitille. Saaren viehätystä lisää kesäisin köysilossi, jolla voit omatoimisesti kulkea jokiuoman yli (etäisyys 20 metriä). Talvella kuljetaan saareen hiihtolatua ja jäätä pitkin. Purusaarta ylläpitää Jakkukylän kyläyhdistys.

Palvelut: Purusaaren 2 km:n maisemareitti, saaren länsipäässä maisemalaavu, jossa voit tulistella. Puuvaja ja huussi valmistuvat kesällä 2022. Rannassa uintimahdollisuus, hiekkapohja. Reitin varrelle on suunnitteilla historiasta ja ympäristöstä kertovia opastauluja.

Joulukuussa 2021 valmistunut jänneväliltään Pohjois-Euroopan pisin riippusilta ylittää lähes 200 metrin levyisen Iijoen. Kulkeminen on sallittu kävellen tai pyörää taluttaen. Sillan pohjoispuolella sijaitsee Jakun koulu. Sillan kävelypinta on rakenteeltaan pientä metallikehikkoa, huomioi tämä esimerkiksi koiran kanssa liikuttaessa.

Jakkukylässä on lisäksi monipuoliset retkeily-, hiihto- ja pyöräilymaastot.

Ailasto is an old Kaartotie elementary school building built 1926. As a restaurant Ailasto has had long traditions from 70’s till recent years. Renewed Ailasto has also program services and equipment rentals as addition to cafeteria and accommodation services. Cafeteria has alcohol license and local product shop.
Products base on locality, minor producers and ecologicality.

Camping area has 25 caravan/tent areas, five of which have electricity. There is a sauna, kitchen and sanitary facilities in the service building. We are located 13km from ferry harbor. Come and enjoy peaceful sleeping in Hailuoto island.

There are nice outdoor activity grounds right nearby Ailasto, for example Hyyppä. Bus stop is located right by Ailasto, or you can rent a bike to ride to the town center. Ailasto’s decoration reflects history and calmness.

Sustainability reasons we wish you to empty your garbage and waste water before coming to island because all waste go back to mainland from Hailuoto. We have recyckling point at the service building but no slop sink for caravans.

Ailasto Camping and caravan park, bar and cafeteria is open daily at summer, check the opening hours from our Facebook @Ailasto

The national romantic spirit of the twentieth century was brought to life in the architecture of Oulujoki church, completed in 1908. The church was designed by the architect Viktor J. Sucksdorff of Oulu province, and it also contains Karelian influences. The atmospheric church is the only preserved wooden church in the art nouveau style in Northern Finland.

In 1984, as a result of the restoration work planned by Anna-Kaisa Ylimaula, the church was restored as closely as possible to its original appearance. Visitors to the church can see how the roof and the bell tower in particular reach upwards. On the second clock of the tower, an inscription has been made asking for a blessing for the Finnish people.

The oldest wooden church in the Oulu urban area serves as a summer church and is located in Madekoski, in the Turkansaari open-air museum area. Nowadays it functions as a beautiful wedding venue for many summer weddings. In the Middle Ages, the island was the westernmost marketplace for Russians and Karelians. As was typical of the time, the church was built in connection with the marketplace. The fishing industry also had an important role on the island.

When the days of trade and fishing were over, the church was demolished and transferred to Raati island, where it served for years as a storehouse until Östen Elfving, founder of the Turkansaari open-air museum, bought it and returned it to original location in 1922.

The beautiful Oulu Cathedral stands in Oulu’s monumental centre, on the same site where several church buildings were located over the centuries, with the oldest dating back to the late sixteenth century. The wooden church that was built on the site in the 1610s was replaced by a cathedral designed by Daniel Hagman of Sweden and completed in 1777. The cathedral, built of natural stone, was so big that all the 2,400 inhabitants of Oulu could fit in it at the same time!

Throughout the centuries, densely built wooden towns were vulnerable to urban fires. The Oulu fire of 1822 completely destroyed the wooden structures of the cathedral. The movable property was saved in time, and the fire left only the stone walls standing. The current stone cathedral was completed in 1832 according to the neoclassical designs of C. L. Engel. The most notable work of art in the cathedral is the portrait of Johannes Messenius, painted in 1611.

Among the cloud cherry trees in the garden is the Pikku-Sofia church for children. It is a model of Oulu’s very first wooden church from the late sixteenth century.

Tourist Information Office in Oulu offers you practical advice and tips for your visit to Oulu about events, accommodation, restaurants, attractions and places to visit.

More to that, Tourist Information Office provides you with a customer tablet, an open wireless network (panOulu), a charging point for smartphones, brochures, themed walking and cycling maps. In our Oulu Shop you can find local and responsible souvenirs.

On summer our customer service is also on wheels! You can see our tourist officers biking through the city from Nallikari beach to railway station, handing out maps and brochures and answering your questions. We are at your service!

The spring migration of birds is at its busiest! Join us for a day trip from Oulu to Liminka Bay, where you can visit the interesting Eight Seasons of Birds exhibition at the Liminka Bay Visitor Centre and follow the spring migration of birds at the Virkkula Bird Tower. A birdlife guide is present at the bird tower at 10-12 am (weather permitting). There are also well-marked mountain biking trails starting form the visitor centre.

Cafe-Restaurant Liminganlahti serves also lunch on spring Saturdays. Own snacks can be enjoyed by the visitor centre campfire place.

The Saaga Travel bus leaves from Kaarlenväylä from Oulu Market Square at 9.30. The return from Liminka Bay back to Oulu leaves at 13.00. For an additional fee, you can also take your own bike.

This day trip is operated on Saturdays 16.4.-28.5.2022.

The Best Western Hotel Apollo offers all the right amenities for business and leisure travelers. The hotel has 70 rooms, 29 with sauna and in 5th floor attic rooms with skylight windows and steam bath or shower.
All guests will receive a complimentary continental breakfast. Free wireless Internet access in all rooms. On the fifth floor there is also LAN. Extra amenities include a business center and common sauna. Breakfast in Bar Apollo and the Karaoke Bar nightclub are located onsite.
The Best Western Hotel Apollo is conveniently located in the Oulu city center nearby sights and attractions such as Rotuaari Pedestrian Street, Market Hall and Market Square. Hotel is near major transportation access including the railway station, bus station and 15 kilometers from Oulu Airport. Hotel has 12 electric car charging plugs which are included in hotel rate.

Explore Oulu from the sea and as close to the sea as you can get! Be prepared for an unforgettable outdoor
excursion in Oulu!
City of Oulu by kayak is the defining paddling trip, our 2 hour guided kayak tour through the Oulu and
characterized by its clear waters and nature.
The kayaks used on the trip are easy to handle and very stable – This paddling trip suits beginners and experts alike.
We will provide you with all the kayaking equipment needed. Just wear some sporty clothing and bring your
adventurous spirit – Lappis will take care of the rest. We will ensure You’ll have a relaxing and a memorable paddling experience.
We will paddle on a slow and easy pace, everyone can tag along on this journey.
What is included: guidance in English, kayak, live vest, paddle, spraydeck and waterproof cellphone case

The Messi Summer Cottages for a little bit more comfortable camping!

Nallikari Holiday Village’s Messi Summer Cottages are located just a stone’s throw away from Oulu city center and situated on a beautiful spot right by the gulf of Bothnia.

Messi Summer Cottages are a great way to enjoy the camping feeling with a hint of luxury. These summer cottages are available from May until September.

The modern Messi summer cottage is suitable for two persons and the cottage includes a sofa bed or twin beds, dining table and chairs, as well as a lovely little terrace. Please note that toilet, shower and kitchen facilities are located in the campsite’s service building.

Pets are welcome for an extra fee.

Welcome to the home of Huskies! We wish you warmly welcome to meet the charming individuals of our pack. The canine members of our small family kennel include huskies of all ages from youngsters to pensioner – every dog ready to become your new best friend! You can also participate in the daily routines of the kennel.

Availability: All year round

Suitable for all

Group size: 1+

The programme introduces to the sounds, flora and fauna of the season.

Finland has four unique seasons. Light-filled summer, when Oulu is bright even at night. Our area’s birds and late summer berry reserves are second to none.

The colorful autumn brings with it migratory birds, dark nights and our pure nature is slowly turning into a mushroom-hunter’s paradise before frost-glazed winter.

Winters in Oulu are crisp, glittery and full of snow. It is the time for warm woolen jumpers and windproof jacket. Winter is also time for darkness but also time for peace and quiet in our forests.

Bloom-covered spring is also time for wild herbs. In the spring and early summer, nature provides an abundant harvest of wild edible plants for anyone to pick. It is easy to fond fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients for salads, seasonings and herbal beverages.

Finland is home to the world’s largest archipelago and has more than 80,000 islands off its coast. Our excursion destination is Akio Island, which is slowly becoming part of the mainland due to the region’s strong land uplift. The nesting birds in the area are rich in both species and numbers, and the surrounding sea area is an important resting area for migratory birds.

Did You know, that all people have the right to enjoy nature anywhere in the Finnish countryside regardless of land ownership? The legal concept of “Everyman’s Right” in Finland extends immense freedom to roam but comes with some serious responsibilities. Primary of all is a mutual respect for nature and people. The golden rule requires a desire to preserve and protect the unspoiled beauty and wonder of nature for future generations to enjoy.

Good walking condition required (includes ~3 km of walking).

What is SuperPark? SuperPark is an entertainer. We deliver a unique experience of joyful play that excites and unites people all over the world – no matter their age or fitness level. Via our purpose built, high quality indoor activity centres, we deliver joy, increased health and exercise opportunities to all manner of people. You have to see the place to believe it!

We want our customers to take care of the joy while we work with research and development – in order to serve the world even better. SuperPark is suitable for families, seniors, young people, toddlers, work groups, bachelor parties, birthday groups and just about everyone. Navigating the SuperPark, or ‘sparking’, is not only fun, but also useful.

Adventure Area. Game Arena. Freestyle Hall. Choose your own adventure! SuperPark is home to a smorgasbord of activities, designed to inspire and entertain you. Come see what all the hype is about!

Original Sokos Hotel Arina – your home in the middle of the city

Original Sokos Hotel Arina is a lively city hotel located next to two of Oulu’s most important landmarks: the Valkea shopping mall and the Rotuaari ball sculpture. The hotel is seven storeys high and has 260 rooms. In pride of place, you will find two spacious suites with large balconies overlooking the Rotuaari pedestrian street. Let the genuine smiles of our staff gladden your heart and bring you a good night’s sleep in between the crisp, white sheets of your freshly made bed. After all, we are always expecting important guests.

Check our website to see what spring and summer have in store and come and enjoy the vibrant city culture of Oulu! We will spoil you rotten here! <3

Come with us to enjoy in the arms of the Finnish forest. During the nature walk we challenge our senses to hear, feel and see the surrounding nature holistically.

Breathing exercises soothe us by the trees. We hear local stories and learn what the forest means to Finns. A relaxing moment in clean, Finnish nature increases health and relieves stress. In summer this can be arranged also during the night.

After the walk we sit by the campfire. Everyone gets to make a memory for themselves; a little piece of jewerly made from a local reed.

Coffee/tea with a little sweet and sausages are served.

The hotel is located on Hailuoto, the largest island in the Gulf of Bothnia. It is nestled at the foot of a still functional lighthouse. This location offers exceptional and expansive sea views across the gulf. This truly unique and utterly fascinating venue once served as a maritime pilot station.

Hotel guests also have access to a panoramic restaurant, a terrace, a lobby lounge, and sauna facilities.

Hotel is located in the beautiful fisherman’s village of Marjaniemi, at the end point of the island.

Nallikari Holiday Village’s Pooki Holiday Cottages are located just a stone’s throw away from Oulu city center and situated on a beautiful spot right by the gulf of Bothnia.

These traditional Finnish style Holiday Cottages are available throughout the year and recommended for 1-5 persons. Each cottage has kitchen, toilet and shower. 10 of the cottages are studio size and 6 with a separate bedroom.

It is easy to feel comfortable in this central hotel decorated in Scandinavian style. The shopping streets are close by. The hotel restaurant Torilla, which can be divided into smaller sections, serves both hotel residents and the people of the city.

A peaceful hotel in the centre of Oulu, near the railway station. Friendly service, refurbished rooms, a comfortable restaurant and a relaxation suite with sauna and swimming pool guarantee a relaxing visit. The hotel also has modern meeting facilities and good parking opportunities.

Nallikari Holiday Village’s Masto Holiday Cottages are located just a stone’s throw away from Oulu city center and situated on a beautiful spot right by the gulf of Bothnia.

These traditional Finnish style Holiday Cottages are available throughout the year and recommended for 1-5 persons. Each cottage has kitchen, toilet and shower.

Nallikari Holiday Village’s Poiju Villas are located just a stone’s throw away from Oulu city center and situated on a beautiful spot right by the gulf of Bothnia.

All villas are conveniently located to maximize daylight and sunshine on the patio all year round. Poiju Villas are modern and built in traditional island cottage style with large windows allowing nature enter the rooms.

Different size Villas for 1-12 persons. All the villas have kitchen, dining space, sauna, 1-4 bedrooms, combined kitchen and living room area, fireplace and large patio.

Hike along the duckboards, observe birds and count sheep on the field.
Hiastinhaara is perfect place for hike and bird watching while there are hundreds of migrating birds in the area every spring and autumn. The record is nearly 90 different species.

The area is located around 4,5km from Ii’s town center on the Hiastinlahti Bay, where tributary stream of Ii river also flows. Easy access nature trails are 2 km and 0,7 km, suitable for families with children.

Enjoy lively events, visit the museum of local history, walk along culture heritage route.
Ii Wanha Hamina (Old Hamina – Historic district) is among the Northern Finland’s oldest trading posts and dates to the 14th century. The name “Hamina” has its roots in the Swedish term “hamn”, which means harbour. It used to be a home to yearly markets with as much as 2 000 visitors from all over the northern Finland. Nowadays the Old Hamina is a tight-knit neighbourhood that has managed to keep its own unique historical spirit.

Most of the houses along two narrow streets, Alakatu “lower street” and Yläkatu “upper street,” are built side by side having the corners almost touching each other. The oldest buildings – or at least the vintage of the timber used to build them – are from the early 19th century. The heart of Wanha Hamina is the Huilinki stage where plenty of concerts, theatre plays and events take place.

Oulu August Festival is an event entity of six festivals and additional program, which attracts approximately 60,000 visitors annually. A month-long celebration of culture features hundreds of events in the city of Oulu and its surroundings, ranging from music and cinema to literature and performance arts.

The members of Oulu August Festival are Elojazz, Oulunsalo Soi Chamber Music Festival, Literary Art Festival Muusajuhlat, Oulu Arts Night, Oulu Music Video Festival, Air Guitar World Championships and Flow Productions. The members organize high-quality cultural events in August.

Oulu August Festival also offers other events, such as macro concerts, Oulu August Festival Presents event series (rotating every other year), Choir Day and silent films.

Oulu August Festival has the EcoCompass environmental certificate.

Hailuoto Information point is open at summer season. If you need some assistance or have some questions, please contact by email: [email protected]

Hailuoto App you can find updated services and ferry timetables all year around.

Download here:

https://apps.apple.com/fi/app/hailuoto/id1566657292?l=fi

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.app_hailuoto.layout

You are welcome to visit our beautiful island.

Nordic Art Hotel Lasaretti is especially suitable for quality-conscious travellers who value uniqueness and friendly service. Location close to Oulujoki river and Ainolan puisto park is beautiful in every season. Hotel is only 2 km from Oulu city center. At Nordic Hotel Lasaretti you stay in the middle of art!

Our hotel is smoke-free and we use allergy-friendly materials in the rooms. We also have wheelchair accessible rooms. A good example of the carefully designed details in the rooms is the high-quality Molton Brown products; shower gels and and lotions that we offer our guests. We have 49 hotel rooms (renovated in 2019), sauna and fitness room.

Unique accommodation in historical pilot building. Beautiful seaview and atmosphere. Torni, in english “Tower” is one of the oldest buildings in Majakkapiha. Accommodation is on 2nd floor.