Vartiosaari is a charming island located in Helsinki, Finland, known for its tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty. Accessible by ferry, it offers scenic views, walking trails through lush forests, and opportunities for birdwatching along its shores. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful retreat away from the city's hustle and bustle, making it a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Vartiosaari, popularly called 'Guard Island', is known for its stunning natural beauty and historical heritage. Originally having served as a lookout point, the island has now transformed into a tourist destination and features natural landscapes and historical sites.
Nature enthusiasts from across the globe love Vartiosaari for its breathtaking coastal views. The island offers a variety of scenic trails that are suitable for beginners as well as experts. Moreover, you can also enjoy birdwatching in the region and admire a variety of exotic creatures. Some of the objects that you can admire include fortifications, bunkers, and historic documents. The island is symbolic of Finland's wartime history, as it once stood as a guard post during the 20th century.
Dive into the historical legacy and natural beauty of Vartiosaari, and experience the true charm of Finland's cultural and ecological heritage.
Highlights
• Visit Vartiosaari and get a chance to immerse yourself in its historical heritage and natural landscape.
• Head out on natural trails that offer views of the rocky shores and the stunning Baltic Sea.
• Admire a variety of exotic birds that visit the shores of the island during the nesting season.
• Learn about Finland's wartime history and explore the bunkers, fortifications, and historic documents.
• Enjoy scenic boat tours that let you explore the Icelandic beauty of the surrounding islands.
How To Reach
By Car: Vartiosaari is located at a distance of around 6 km from the city center of Laajasalo. You can reach Tammisalon in 10 minutes via the Degerövägen/ Laajasalontie route. For added convenience, you can also rent a car and enjoy a self-drive to Tammisalon. From there, you can take a 5-minute boat ride to reach Vartiosaari.
By Bus: You can also consider reaching Vartiosaari via bus, known to be a pocket-friendly option. You can choose to board Bus No. 85 or 86, from Willebrandsvägen in Laajasalo. Remember to get off at the Tuoriniemi bus stop, from where you reach the island via a 5-minute boat ride. From Laajasalo, it usually takes around 30 minutes to reach the Vartiosaari.
Best Time To Visit
Vartiosaari is a year round attraction and can be visited any time of the year. Best Season: It's recommended that you visit between June and August, known for mild weather and longer daylight hours, perfect for sightseeing tours. Best Day of the Week: If you prefer exploring at a comfortable pace and want to avoid crowds, it's suggested that you plan your visit for weekdays. Best Time of the Day: You can visit Vartiosaari during early morning hours or late afternoon hours, to avoid crowds and ensure a wholesome experience.
Other Essential Information
- Keep an eye on the weather forecast before planning your visit to the park, to avoid any last-minute hassles.
- Check the event listings on the website to know about any festivals, community events, or outdoor concerts planned around your visit.
- Respect the local rules related to cleanliness and keep your surroundings clean by disposing of waste in bins.
- To experience convenient ferry schedules and pleasant weather, planning your trip between June and August is suggested.
- Wear durable shoes meant for hiking and walking, as there are many scenic natural paths and trails to explore.
- Choose an outfit that is appropriate for the weather and wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Carry some picnic supplies in case you're planning to relax with your friends and family, as there are no shops available on the island.
- Be careful when walking around cliffs or shorelines and keep an eye out for the changing weather conditions.
Admire the Natural Beauty
Explore Vartiosaari and get a chance to admire the lush green forests, and scenic views of the Baltic Sea. Enjoy taking a look at the rock shores or walk through the trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. You can also visit some of the picnic spots in the region and spend some time relaxing with your friends and family. Spend some leisurely time by the sandy shores, and take in the island's natural beauty.
Discover the Historical Heritage
Get a chance to dive into the historical significance of the island and discover a variety of relics. Vartiosaari, located in Helsinki's island group, is home to many interesting items from the World War II era. Some of the objects that you can admire include fortifications, bunkers, and more. Learn about the historical background of the island which was once a site of strategic importance.
Explore Scenic Trails
Take a walk along the scenic trails in Vartiosaari, and admire the dense forests and fantastic views of the Baltic Sea. From leisurely walks to challenging hikes, the natural trails at the island cover it all. You can also take a short stop while exploring the trails to admire the regional flora and fauna. Some of the wild animals that you can admire include foxes and rabbits. Take a look at the signboards along the way, and get unique insights about the preservation efforts being made for the island.
Enjoy Birdwatching
If you're a wildlife enthusiast, Vartiosaari is one of the best places to explore. The island is known to be home to a wide range of exotic birds. The rocky shores and coastal cliffs of the island provide a perfect nesting area for many species of birds. Some of the most popular ones that you can admire include Guillemot, Puffin, Arctic Tern, and Great Cormorant. You can enjoy taking a look at the Eider Ducks, which are usually found swimming along the island's rocky shores.
