Saaristo, the archipelago of Finland, begins in Ruissalo

By Malin Norman

Imagine a place where you can watch the ever-moving sea, admire ornate wooden villas, eat delicious local food, wander through the largest oak forests in Finland, and swim, golf, or just relax in a sauna. Ruissalo, an island steeped in history and nature in the Archipelago Sea, awaits your discovery.

The island of Ruissalo is located just minutes away from the centre of Turku, Finland’s oldest city, and is easily accessible with public transport. Once the hunting destination for the court of Turku Castle, Ruissalo offers both diverse nature and a rich cultural history. Rare animals, plants and mushroom species can be found here.

Saaristo, the archipelago of Finland, begins in Ruissalo

The beautiful original windows inside Villa Kuuva.

The wooden villas, built after the mid-19th century, are famous for their windows in particular and create a special atmosphere that visitors can enjoy, as they wonder around and admire the exceptional architecture.

Ruissalo’s charm offers a respite of calm from city life. As the first island located off the mainland, this is also a great starting point for exploring more islands within Saaristo, the archipelago of Finland.

Photo: Visit Turku Archipelago

Activities for every season

Kristiina Kukkohovi, CEO of Visit Turku Archipelago, explains that Ruissalo is special because of the range of experiences it offers. “Ruissalo is an exceptional destination and full of hidden gems. Here you’ll find high-quality restaurants and charming cafes,” she says. “Ruissalo is ideal for running, hiking, birdwatching, and swimming. It’s a great place to come for a day or to spend a bit of time all year round. You can even stay overnight, at the spa hotel or camping, for a few days to explore all of it.”

Ruissalo’s beaches, particularly those in Saaronniemi and Kansanpuisto are ideal in summer. Well-maintained trails and bike paths make the island easily accessible for cyclists and forest walks. This is also home to one of Finland’s oldest golf courses, with stunning sea views and challenges for enthusiasts.

In spring and autumn, Ruissalo becomes a dream destination for nature lovers. Birdwatching towers provide excellent opportunities to observe migratory birds. And during winter, the sauna at Saaronniemi offers a warm retreat, with the chance to take a refreshing dip in the icy waters – a quintessential Finnish experience.

Eatery Alex.

The wonder of the forests

Ruissalo is home to one of the largest oak forests in Northern Europe. These forests house many endangered species found in only a few places in Finland and act as a feeding and nesting site for countless mammals and birds.

The island also has meadows that attract numerous types of butterflies. Visitors can walk easily on paths throughout the island and stop by Ruissalo’s charming cafes, such as Villa Kuuva, a wooden villa and personal residence that is home to a cosy café from Easter through September and during the Christmas season. Guests can relax and admire the original glass windows and interiors.

“It’s a historical villa with beautiful scenery right on the Baltic Sea welcoming guests,” says Sanna Suomi, the villa’s owner. Ruissalo also houses Turku University’s Botanical Garden, offering a diverse area of collections and natural experiences.

Turku hosts the Tall Ships Race every 4 years.

Local cuisine and spectacular nature

There is a variety of restaurants to suit different tastes and preferences. For coffee, lunch or a tasty dinner, Eatery Alex 1917, in the centre of Ruissalo, offers both casual dining and a thoughtfully curated Chef’s Table. Collaborating with local farms, fresh seasonal produce is highlighted with an aim towards sustainability. Eatery Alex is located in the historic original civilian sea airport terminal, designed by Alexander Nyström in 1917.

Possibly the most romantic spot is Kuuvannokka, located at the southern tip of the island with scenic cliffs stretching into the water and a fantastic view overlooking the sea. Around 15 kilometres from the centre of Turku and easily reached by bicycle, car or public transport with a convenient carpark located nearby, Kuuvannokka is a popular spot for picnics and photo shoots as well.

Global travel trends increasingly emphasise sustainability, slow travel, and going local. Relaxation and the art of slowing down are becoming major movements. Kukkohovi says; “Saaristo is a destination like no other, creating experiences like no other.” Ruissalo is the first step towards experiencing the larger archipelago and enjoying an adventure, perhaps a bit closer to home.

Saaristo, the archipelago of Finland, begins in Ruissalo