This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Archipelago Sea UNESCO Biosphere Reserve! The Archipelago Sea is composed of tens of thousands of islands and skerries, making it a unique yet vulnerable region. It`s a thriving archipelago with nearly 100 inhabited islands.

"A biosphere reserve is about what we as humans can do to preserve biodiversity and collaboratively build a sustainable future in our distinctive area. This includes making sustainable choices in our daily lives—whether ecological, social, or economic—and sharing knowledge about the natural environment and archipelago culture. Everyone plays a role in the biosphere reserve, and all are welcome to join in the diverse programs offered during this anniversary year," describes the biosphere reserve regarding its activities.

For visitors, the Archipelago Center Korpoström is in a key position, offering interesting experiences for all ages. Various events are organized there, featuring an intriguing exhibition and the popular Knattelabbet laboratory. In Knattelabbet, children, youth, and curious adults can be archipelago researchers for a few hours. In Korpo, Verkan, there is also the educational Biosphere Trail approximately 2 km long, suitable for the whole family.

Sunsets are always beautiful, but have you ever seen a sunset in the archipelago? It`s twice as beautiful here since you`ll see both the sunset and its` reflection in the sea!

For the best sunsets, find a spot with an unobstructed horizon on a beach or a cliff with a view towards the west or northwest.

The outer archipelago is a perfect location for sunsets with its vast landscapes and beautiful cliffs. Here are some tips on islands for sunset-watching:

Jurmo with its unique, rugged landscape. The sunsets here are particularly beautiful in August whilst the heather is in bloom. Tip: Set up your tent at the camping area near Jurmo Vesterrevet and you can almost watch the sunset from inside your tent!

Utö is the outermost inhabited island in the Parainen archipelago and offers incredible views over the sea - with no other island in sight towards the south. The open horizon provides a perfect place to watch the sun go down. Tip: At Kesnäs Point, there is a memorial for the shipwreck of `Draken`. The high cliff is perfect to sit down and watch the sun go down.

Aspö is the home of archipelago folk music, played with accordion and violin. In the summer evenings, people gather by the little shop in the harbor to listen to the live music while enjoying a bit of freshly smoked fish.
Tip: Follow the nature trail up to the highest point and get an unhindered view to the west. You might even hear music all the way there!

Borstö, close to the archipelago of Kimitoön, has one of the most charming little villages in the archipelago with its` boathouses and cottages. The red and yellow colors look stunning in the evening sunshine.
Tip: Let the statue "Borstögumman" keep you company while you enjoy the evening out by the sea.

Many of the main islands have observation towers, from which you have a perfect 360-degree view of the landscape. Why not hike to one of these to admire the sunset?

Hundbanan Viewpoint - Pargas
Westerholm Trail - Nagu
Vargberget in Mattnäs - Nagu
Biosphere Trail - Korpo
Borgberg - Houtskär
Mossala - Houtskär

Beautiful old sailing ships, schooners, and sailing yachts have been a part of the views in the Finnish Archipelago Sea the last days, as The Tall Ships Races armada has been sailing west through the area. In among others Näsby (Houtskär), Själö, Nagu, and Lappo, vessels have berthed and anchored for the night. ⚓

Photos: Jasmine Biström

A thousand-star accommodation in the archipelago – commonly known as camping.

You won`t yet see the starry sky in July, but aside from the stars, there are few things as wonderful as listening to nature waking up on an early summer morning. You wake up to the singing of birds and the light rustling of the wind in the leaves. Camping offers a great opportunity to get close to nature, something that few other forms of accommodation can provide. Feel the scent of the forest and the sea breeze, and experience a form of peace only nature can offer!

Here are some tips and reminders for camping in the archipelago:

- You can find the archipelago`s campsites on our "Archipelago" map.

- Allocate enough time for your visit. There are many beautiful islands to explore, nature trails to walk, and historical sites to visit. We recommend a visit of at least three days.

- Everyman`s Right: Camping is allowed in the archipelago as long as it is at a sufficient distance from houses and does not harm nature. The Everyman`s Right does not apply to areas with specific prohibitions.
Making open fires is PROHIBITED. Charcoal grills, disposable grills, and coal grills are prohibited during forest fire warnings issued by the rescue authorities in Finland. For cooking, it is advisable to use a trangia. Note that many islanders do not even heat wood-fired saunas due to the risk of sparks when a forest fire warning is in effect.

- Respect nature and the local population. The archipelago`s nature is a delicate ecosystem.

- Ticks are found everywhere in Finland, including the archipelago. Remember to do a tick-check in the evenings!

Don`t have your own boat? Don`t worry – exploring the archipelago doesn`t require owning your own boat, there are plenty of alternatives!

Charter and taxi boats offer a perfect solution for those looking to enjoy a personalized trip in the archipelago, since there are no set routes you can choose any destination you`d like to see! The great advantage here is flexibility too — you can choose the type of boat that suits your needs as well as the size of your group. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy being out at sea!
Operators in the area include Sjövägen and Archipelago Holiday.

For those who want a slightly more unique experience at sea, should join a traditional sailing tour on the historic replica Storbåt Tacksamheten. Available for chartered group tours and the occasional open trip.

If you`re interested in exploring multiple destinations over a longer period of time (a few days and longer), ferry hopping is a great choice. The archipelago has an extensive ferry network that connects various islands and coastal towns. Create your own itinerary, spending as much time as you like in each location! You can check ferrie routes and their schedules at www.saaristolautat.fi
No matter your preference or budget, there`s an option to suit everyone. So, don`t let the lack of a boat hold you back - choose your mode of transport and go explore at sea!

If you don`t have a summer vacation, don`t worry - you can still enjoy an archipelago experience in just a weekend! Here is an inspiring itinerary for a weekend trip to the Pargas archipelago, ensuring you get the most out of your short but memorable visit.

Friday

16:15: Departure from Turku to Pargas (about a 40-minute drive). Buses depart every 30 minutes.
17:00: Arrival in Pargas and check-in at your accommodation.
18:30: Enjoy a good dinner. There are several restaurants to choose from: Restaurant Matmalmen Eva with its focus on seasonal ingredients, Restaurant Kamu with its warm atmosphere, and Hunger & Törst where everyone finds something to their taste.
20:00: Take a walk and find a cozy spot for evening drinks. Hamnterrassen Skål offers a sea view while Jazz Café Axo has live music almost every weekend.

Saturday

08:45: Have breakfast and check out.
09:55: Head towards Nagu by car or take the bus, which departs at the same time.
10:45: Arrival in Nagu.
11:00: Enjoy coffee and rhubarb donuts at Café Köpmans before exploring the lively Nagu harbor with its boutiques.
12:10: Take M/s Östern to Själö.
12:40: Arrival in Själö.
13:15: Have lunch at Restaurant Själö.
14:00-15:00: Join a guided tour about the island`s rich history (guided in Finnish; for other languages, contact them in advance).
15:30: Take M/s Norrskär back to Nagu.
15:50: Arrival in Nagu. Enjoy a swim at Framnäs beach or hike the Westerholmstigen nature trail.
17:40: Departure towards Korpo (the bus departs at the same time).
18:15: Arrival in Korpo and check-in at Hjalmar`s hotel.

Sunday
08:00: Breakfast at Hjalmar`s.
09:00: Check out
09:30: Head to the Verkan harbor for your guided kayaking tour (3 minutes by car, 20 minutes on foot).
10:00: Start your kayaking tour with Naawa Nature (must be booked in advance).
13:00: Finish the tour. Enjoy lunch at Buffalo, known for its delicious ribs, or JJ`s Pizzeria with its Neapolitan pizzas.
15:55: Departure from Korpo (the bus departs at the same time).
18:30: Arrival in Turku, with time for a relaxed evening before the workweek begins again.

📷
1: Visit Seili
3: Jaska Poikonen / NLUX
4: Alexandra Degtiareva

The archipelago is a playground full of adventures for children of all ages! There’s something for everyone – from sunny beaches and lush forests to exciting water activities and outdoor life. Here are some fun activities for the whole family:

🔬 The Kids Lab in Korpoström

The Kids Lab in Korpoström is where children can explore, have fun, and learn! It offers exciting experiments and activities that spark curiosity. Perfect for families who want to learn about the archipelago and the Baltic Sea, its animals, and organisms.

⛱️ Beaches

The archipelago has several public beaches: Mustfinn in Pargas, Framnäs in Nagu, Likholmen in Korpo, and Kannvik in Iniö. Swim, play, and enjoy the summer. For the adventurous, find your own swimming spots – almost anywhere! Remember Everyman`s Right and respect private beaches that require permission.

🌳 Pargas Central Park

Recharge in Pargas Central Park, perfect for family fun and relaxation. The little ones can swing, pedal on the carousel, climb, and slide down the Lucienus Alienus. After playing, try minigolf at Centris.

For those who like a challenge, there’s the disc golf course Pargas DiscGolfPark. For peaceful activities, visit Hortensia Park with its flowers.

🚶‍♀️ Exercise Stairs in the Archipelago

There are exercise stairs in Pargas, Korpo, and Houtskär. They’re perfect for a scenic workout and for children to get rid of some energy! The beautiful archipelago nature serves as a playground for the kids while the adults exercise. Improve your fitness while the family enjoys the lovely environment!

🧸 The Nagu Nalle Trail and the Biosphere Trail

Join an adventure along the Nagu Nalle Trail! This path in the centre of Nagu is a perfect little walk during a visit to the Nagu harbor. Meet Nagu Nalle and his friends, Frille the guinea pig, Olle the snake, and Lala the leopard, all eager for adventure. They find adventure among dancing bumblebees and forest creatures!

Afterwards, continue to Korpo for the Biosphere Path in Verkan, where children and adults can learn about the unique archipelago nature. Learn about plants, animals, and nature care along the path. These paths offer a great family day out in nature!