Eastern Gulf of Finland National Park
Quiet islands and rocky shores, untouched since ice ageRocky islands and shallow bays dot this marine sanctuary. Thousands of migratory birds stop here during spring and autumn, and grey seals swim in its waters.
Eastern Gulf of Finland National Park stretches across 100 islands and islets along Finland's southeastern coast. Walk through World War II fortifications on Ulko-Tammio island, climb to the birdwatching tower to spot migrating arctic birds, or follow the paths to ancient stone labyrinths called jatulintarha. The granite islands vary from bare rocks to pine-covered forests, where you'll find old fishing huts and historic survey points from the 1800s.
Landscape and Islands
The national park covers 6.7 square kilometers of small islands made of rapakivi granite. The shorelines break into large, geometric blocks, creating natural steps down to the water. While many islands remain as bare rock formations, others support thriving pine forests. On Ristisaari island, you'll find unexpected patches of green groves, European ash trees, and coastal meadows.
Spring Bird Migration
Each spring, millions of arctic birds pass directly over the park during their northern migration. BirdLife International recognizes this route as an Important Bird Area. You'll spot goosanders and tufted ducks throughout the year, while razorbills and black guillemots nest on the protected islands.
Activities and Trails
On Ulko-Tammio, the main island, you'll find the park's only sheltered harbor and marked nature trails. The island's birdwatching tower gives you views across the entire archipelago. Since 2023, it's the world's first phone-free island, encouraging visitors to disconnect. Families often gather at Pitkäviiri island for its shallow sandy beaches, while birdwatchers prefer Ristisaari's meadows and groves.
Getting to the Islands
You can access the park by private boat or sea kayak. Year-round ferry services connect the mainland to nearby islands Kaunissaari and Haapasaari. During summer weekends, scheduled boats travel to Ulko-Tammio from Hamina. For groups up to 12 people, boat taxis operate with advance booking.
Historical Sites and Structures
Mustaviiri island contains a survey triangulation point from the Struve Geodetic Arc, used for measuring meridians in the 1800s and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Throughout the islands, you'll find stone labyrinths called jatulintarha. On Suuri-Pisi island, look for the monogram of Gustav III of Sweden carved into bedrock, marking his 1777 visit.
