Ruska in the archipelago
The fiery autumn foliage of “ruska”
Ruska is a Finnish and Swedish term used to describe the vibrant autumn foliage. It refers to the period in autumn when the leaves of trees and various plants change color to brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The phenomenon is especially striking in areas with a large variety of trees and shrubs, creating a stunning natural display. Ruska is associated with cooler temperatures and hence marks the arrival of fall.
While one often thinks about Lapland and its spectacular ruska, you don’t have to travel north to experience it. Even in the archipelago, where pine trees usually dominate, you’ll also find maple, aspen, and rowan, which bring stunning colors to the landscape. In addition to the trees, ruska also happens at ground level with plants such as woodbine and blueberry bushes adding their own vibrant hues to the landscape.
The peak of ruska typically occurs in September and/or October, but the timing can vary significantly depending on the weather. Warmer nighttime temperatures often delay the onset of ruska.
Photo 1: Archipelagophoto
What are the best spots to enjoy ruska in the archipelago?
The Lenholmen nature trail, Pargas
Lenholmen nature trail is a lovely, short path suitable for the whole family. You walk through oak meadows with glimpses of the sea where the evidence of land rise typical for the archipelago can be clearly seen. You will find a bird tower, picnic table and composting toilet.
Oak meadows are rare in Finland and the hundreds of years old oak trees are impressive. Indeed Finland’s oldest oak grew here until it fell in a storm, you can still see this giant’s trunk laying on the ground.
As the trail is in a nature reserve you should keep to the path, and dogs are not allowed.
Island of Seili
Seili is known for its history as the site of Finland’s most famous leper hospital and mental asylum during the 1600s and 1700s. The Seili church and surrounding graveyard still serve as reminders of the fates of Seili’s patients. The mentally ill were treated on Seili until the 1960s, when the former asylum was converted for use by the Archipelago Research Institute, part of the University of Turku’s Centre for Environmental Research. Beyond its historical significance, the island is also renowned for its beautiful natural surroundings. In autumn, colorful trees frame the main hospital building and the islands’ three nature trails allow you to get close to nature.
Seili offers accommodation services year-round, so you can enjoy a whole peaceful weekend on the island. The restaurant is closed during the low-season, but the accommodations are equipped with proper kitchens.
Photo: Visit Seili
The Westerholm and Vargberget nature trails, Nagu
The 2,5 km long nature trail ‘Westerholm trail’ starts at the South harbour in Nagu and continues on the south side of the Archipelago road on Ernholm. The path leads up to Jitukastberget which is located 42 meters over the sea with an observation tower (6 meters) so you´ll have a spectacular view over the inner archipelago! This path is dedicated to the artist and landscape painter Victor Westerholm, whom spent his youth in Nauvo.
The Vargberget trail starts at Petsorvägen 55 in Mattnäs and is 2,4 km long. At the highest point you’re 46 metres over the sea and from the observation tower you have a great view over the Archipelago Sea. On the south side of the peak, you will find a dramatic rock facade with cave-like cracks and formations.
(There is currently no map of the Vargberget trail)
The city centers of Nagu, Korpo and Houtskär
Autumn brings a stunning display of color to the city centers of Nagu, Korpo, and Houtskär. Especially the environment around the churches is adorned with plenty of colorful trees, especially maple. The churches are also beautiful pieces of architecture – in Nagu and Korpo they are made out of stone, while in contrast, the Houtskär church is made of wood and has a more rustic archipelago feel. The city centers offer a beautiful, easily accessible spot for everyone to enjoy ruska.