Nokia - Huittinen

• The Church of St. Catherine and nearby museum are places to go for history and architecture.
• Several atmospheric spots for a picnic on a sunny summer day.
• River Kokemäenjoki is perfect for fishing and kayaking. 

Finland is a small country, but Huittinen can be considered a hobbit-sized travel destination even by Finnish standards. Yet this town of ten thousand inhabitants has a lot to offer for an open-minded bus traveler on their holiday in Finland. Next, we'll tell you how to get the most out of a relaxing holiday at the serene charm of Huittinen.

A natural way to start the trip is at Huittinen's most important landmark, the Church of St. Catherine. The oldest parts of the church were built in the late Middle Ages, and the expansions were finished in the 18th and 19th centuries. The church is comfortably located just a ten-minute walk from the bus station. 

Right next to the church, you will notice the Huittinen Museum, which is also worth a visit. The museum has an extensive art collection and their exhibitions showcase, among other things, local history starting from prehistory and the recent history of Finland.

The surrounding area is probably the most beautiful neighborhood in Huittinen, dominated by the River Punkalaitumenjoki that flows through the town. Many locals would say the park called Kirkkopuisto on the riverbank is the best place in town to have a picnic on a hot summer day. Just grab some snacks from one of the nearby cafés or grocery stores and take a break in the idyllic small-town scenery.

Another destination that is perfect for a picnic is the lookout point of Ripovuori, located about six kilometers from downtown. Ripovuori’s peak is 77 meters above sea level, and a true cultural landscape opens to every direction on its top: the passing River Kokemäenjoki, the vast farmlands and the dense forests on the horizon.

NATURE TRIP IN HUITTINEN

There are also opportunities for more outdoor activities than just having a picnic. The Puurijärvi and Isosuo National Park is the best choice for getting out of town for a while. The national park is especially popular among birdwatchers, as the swamps of the area provide a natural and suitable habitat for many species of birds. There are also short hiking trails and campfire sites to enjoy meals in an authentic wilderness style.

Kokemäenjoki, which flows next to the national park, offers even more nature experiences. For example, you can go fishing, canoeing, kayaking, or sup-boarding according to your own preferences. The equipment can be rented conveniently from a place called Kajakkikioski by the river.

Even in a small town like Huittinen, there are different ways to enjoy culture and nature on a holiday. Sometimes, a hectic everyday life calls for a peaceful moment soaking in the serene charm of a small town.