Central Ostrobothnia between peatlands and music

Central Ostrobothnia stretches from the sea to the wilderness. Sandy beaches, ancient forests and extensive peatlands shape the region’s landscape. Hiking trails lead from the coast through ancient forests to vast peatlands; the flat terrain also offers suitable cycling routes. This gives you different ways to experience the landscape as you plan your trip.

Hiking, cycling and peatlands

In Salamajärvi National Park, the landscape is defined by old-growth forests, rocky heathland and extensive peatland wilderness. There are about 60 kilometres of marked trails, with individual routes ranging from 1.5 to 58 kilometres. Check the route lengths again before setting out. Multi-day ski tours are possible on the Peuran polku. You can stay in tents, at lean-tos, in huts or in rental accommodation. Winter conditions vary, so take them into account when planning.

At the edge of Heikinjärvenneva, you can watch peatland birds from an observation tower; which birds you see depends on the season. The Kaustinen region also offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking and fishing. The Lestijoki canoe route offers a different perspective, passing through a landscape with a wilderness feel and rapids.

Historic places and music

Neristan is one of Finland’s largest and best-preserved historic wooden-house districts. You can explore the district on your own with a free brochure or join a guided tour. As the availability of visitor materials and tours may change, it is advisable to check the latest information before your visit.

Kokkola National Urban Park covers almost 20,000 hectares and consists mostly of water. The Veikko Salkio Natural History Collection at Kieppi offers another way to explore the region’s natural and cultural history: it is of national significance and contains about 2,500 specimens.

Folk music is central to Kaustinen’s cultural tradition. Its distinctive style and playing technique have been maintained for more than 250 years. In 2021, Kaustinen fiddle playing was added to UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Kaustinen folk music is also performed at the annual Kaustinen Folk Music Festival.

At Pelimannitalo, food and music go together: during the meal, local folk musicians perform Kaustinen folk music and talk about its origins. Dishes served there include Kaustinen-style juustopaisti and a creamy meat soup with Leipäjuusto. If you plan to include this in your visit, check both the menu and the availability of the music programme in advance.

Kokkola and the coastal landscape

Kokkola’s compact city centre is easy to explore on foot, with services close at hand. The beach is about a half-hour walk away. Kokkola is connected by road, air and rail; check suitable routes and timetables before your trip.

Tankar combines historic maritime landscapes with nature experiences. Its features include nature trails, a birdwatching tower, cliffs and a lighthouse. Café Tankar serves salmon soup during the summer season. If you plan to visit, check seasonal availability before your trip.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Lestijärvi, Halsua, Kokkola, Kaustinen, Lappajärvi, Yli-Lesti, Ahomäki, Toholampi.

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