3 x Nature trails
- The lush greenery of early spring and birds tuning their instruments after winter invite you to lace up your sneakers and head outside. In Uusikaupunki, nature is truly close by – a sea bay cuts through the city center, and you can even slip onto a forest path during your commute. Here are three lovely nature trails from different parts of Uusikaupunki.
1. Kasarminlahti accessible nature trail
The Kasarminlahti recreation area, rich in birdlife, is located just a couple of kilometers from the market square. The starting point of the accessible trail can be found at Kasarminlahdentie 8.
This trail, which winds through beautiful natural surroundings, has flat and wide paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. You can stop at the accessible birdwatching tower to spot birds, and enjoy your snacks on benches along the way. In the summer, you might also see cows grazing at the edge of the area. The 1-kilometer trail also includes an accessible composting toilet.
If you’re up for more hiking, you can continue from the birdwatching tower on a more challenging trail toward the Kasarminlahti lean-to shelter or the Vionpuhdi campfire site.
Kasarminlahti accessible and easy nature trail
2. Pamprinniemi
Located in Ketteli, Pyhämaa, the Pamprinniemi nature trail introduces visitors to breathtaking sea views, lush wetlands, and majestic pine-covered rock formations. The 4-kilometer route nourishes both body and soul – along the church-owned land, you’ll find Bible-themed signboards that change annually.
According to legend, Bishop Henry landed at Pamprinniemi during his crusade in the 12th century and, with his blessing, drove away the trolls that lived in the area. At the tip of the peninsula, where the bishop is said to have landed, a large wooden cross has stood since the 1970s.
Pamprinniemi is part of the Natura 2000 nature conservation network and is home to many seabirds. The trail offers varied and diverse terrain, with some elevation changes. There are plenty of resting places along the route, but no campfire sites.
3. Lake Hiunjärvi
The atmospheric Hiunjärvi nature trail guides you to a regionally significant bird lake, where you can observe nesting birds from the birdwatching tower. Especially in the early morning, you might spot mallards, goldeneyes, or coots going about their business.
You can enter the trail from several points: either from the tunnel next to Saarnisto School or from the end of Juolukkatien and Otavankuja streets. Depending on your chosen starting point, the trail length ranges from approximately 1.5 to nearly 4 kilometers.
You can stop and grill sausages at the lean-to shelter along the trail. Please remember to take your trash with you and ensure that the fire is completely extinguished before continuing your hike.