Karstula brings together a distinctive wooden church and a historic church village with textile crafts, local art and outdoor activities. If you are planning an overnight stay in Karstula, these different highlights can help you decide what you would like to discover during your visit.

Wooden church and old church village

Karstula Church is a wooden central-plan church in the Late Empire style. It was completed in 1853. Its construction and style make it a tangible starting point for learning about Karstula’s architectural history.

The old church village includes more than just the church: this culturally and historically significant ensemble comprises the church and its surroundings, the main road that runs past it, and a settlement of residential and commercial buildings. This settlement developed in the area from the late 19th century onward. Together, these elements show how the area has evolved over time, while making clear that the church, road and buildings do not all date from a single period of construction.

Another historic site is Kruukkila Farm, a unified farm complex dating from the mid-19th century and valued at a regional level. Today, the complex is used as a venue for celebrations and other events. The Wanhat Wehkeet travel destination has a different origin: it grew out of a car museum and now offers a wide range of tourist activities.

Textile crafts and local art

At Karstulan Käsityötalo, you can weave your own rugs, poppana fabric and table runners. Looms, a sewing machine, an overlock machine and fabric-printing equipment are available, along with expert advice. The house also sells handmade gifts, its own woven goods, rug and poppana yarn, felting wool and various other yarns. The product selection may change.

Galleria Himmeli is located on the ground floor of Himmeli Town Hall. It presents local art in exhibitions that change monthly. Exhibitors include local artists, students and school groups; the exhibition program may change. In Karstula, you can therefore try textile crafts for yourself and enjoy changing insights into the work of local artists.

Trails, birdwatching and exercise

Karstula’s 2019 cultural walking map features two circular routes, with information about significant historic buildings and sights along the way. For an outdoor route with a specific course, the approximately 11-kilometre Kouheron Ura offers a different option: it starts near the centre of Karstula and passes through Kolisevanranta and Hinkalonvuori before reaching Kouhero.

The Iso-Korppinen birdwatching tower is located in Humpi, Karstula. The observation area covers 130 hectares and is home to a diverse range of bird species. A nine-hole disc golf course has been built beside the fitness trail at Hämeenniemi. This gives you two different options to consider when planning your visit: birdwatching and a sporting activity.

Discover more destinations: Lievestuore, Viitasaari, Muhola, Suolahti, Rutalahti, Haapamäki, Vahanka, Oulunsalo

For the overview of the wider region: Central Finland.