Hollola can be explored through three specific themes: the geology of the Salpausselkä area, medieval architecture and trails through the landscape. The municipality is part of the Salpausselkä Geopark complex, which was added to UNESCO’s Global Geoparks Network in 2022. This offers different starting points for planning a trip: nature, clearly described routes and historic buildings.
Landscape and trails
At 223 metres, Tiirismaa is the highest point in southern Finland. Its cliff area is recognised nationwide for its nature and landscape conservation value. Pirunpesä, a rock fissure in the quartzite bedrock of Tiirismaa, is located in Hollola and has been a well-known excursion destination since the 19th century.
There are different route options for hiking: a signposted 4.5-kilometre trail passes Pirunpesä. The 7.5-kilometre lake loop goes around three lakes, all called Tiilijärvi, and runs along roads, forest paths and wooden boardwalks. This lets you compare a shorter route past a geological feature with a longer lake loop and its varied trail surfaces. Check trail conditions before your trip; they can vary seasonally on the lake loop.
Kapatuosia: trails and early settlement history
There are marked hiking trails on Kapatuosia Hill, and an observation tower stands at the summit. The hill and its surroundings were already settled in the Stone Age, around 8,000 years ago. Use the trails on foot and only on the signposted routes, as the ground on the slopes can easily give way.
Architecture and history
The Church of St. Mary in Hollola was built between 1495 and 1510. It is known for its richly decorated west gable and a well-preserved wooden sculpture inside.
Together with the medieval church bell tower, Hollolan Vanha Kunnantupa forms a nationally significant architectural and landscape ensemble. Hollolan Pappila is a historic building dating from 1813 on the shore of Lake Vesijärvi, next to Hollola’s medieval stone church. These buildings offer different points of interest for a trip focused on architectural history.
Cycling route, harbour and seasonal activities
The 27-kilometre Hollola–Messilä–Hollola cycling route starts in central Hollola. It passes through the Hollola church village, via Salpakangas and Hälvälä to Messilä, and back. In terms of length, it is a considerably longer route option than the hiking trails mentioned above.
Messilä guest harbour has a guest pier, visitor berths, facilities for disposing of household waste and waste oil, and drinking water. These practical facilities by the water are also part of planning a visit.
In winter, Messilä offers additional seasonal activities: Messilä Ski Resort in Hollola has 10 ski slopes and 9 ski lifts; its configuration may change over time. Seasonal activities in Messilä include skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobile safaris. Availability varies depending on the operating season.
Discover more destinations: Padasjoki, Auttoinen, Orimattila, Hartola, Vierumäki, Nyystölä, Lahti, Heinola
For the overview of the wider region: Päijät-Häme.
