An exact replica of an over 8,000-year-old elk-head sculpture and a medieval stone church give Huittinen two distinct points of connection with cultural history. There are also circular trails, cycling routes and natural attractions with clearly specified lengths, surfaces and landscapes. You can tailor your stay to whether you want to focus on local history, outdoor activities or both.
Cultural history in Huittinen
The Church of St. Catherine in Huittinen is a medieval stone church in the town centre. It is open as a roadside church in summer; guided tours can also be arranged. The Huittinen Museum is located next to the church in an area of significant cultural and historical value. Its exhibitions focus on President Risto Ryti and sculptor Lauri Leppänen, both of whom were born in Huittinen. A diverse and extensive collection of objects also presents local peasant culture.
The museum collection includes an exact replica of an over 8,000-year-old elk-head sculpture. At the discovery site of the Huittinen elk head, there is an information board produced by the Finnish Heritage Agency; signs to the site are posted from the village road. The museum and the discovery site offer different ways to explore the elk-head story: the replica on display at the museum and the marked location where it was found.
Another way of experiencing local culture is the Kulttuurikierros Huittinen: this augmented-reality walking tour consists of ten information boards in the town-centre area. Unlike the museum exhibitions, it brings history to life along a walking route with digital elements.
Nature trails and landscapes
In the Vanhankosken lehtoalue nature reserve, a nature trail of over one kilometre leads through a deciduous forest. The Kännölä recreation area, by contrast, offers circular routes from 1.4 to 6.5 km for summer running, Nordic walking and other fitness activities; in winter, the area serves as a network of cross-country ski trails. The distinction can help you choose: a named nature trail through a deciduous forest, or circular routes within a specified length range, with different seasonal uses.
Ripovuori is a rock formation in the village of Sammu that rises about 34 metres above the nearby Kokemäenjoki River and is 77 metres above sea level. The Leijonankita lean-to shelter is near the car park, with an impressive view of the river from there. On the steep southwestern slope is a nature reserve of about two hectares, with semi-natural dry grassland vegetation shaped by human activity. The rock formation, river view and distinctive vegetation give this landscape destination several clearly distinct features.
The Harjureitti can also be assessed by its size and location: the ski and trail network is 28 km long, about 14 km of which are lit. On the Huittinen side of the network, the Vampula outdoor shelter is located on the ridge. The route figures refer to the network as a whole; the shelter is specifically located on the Huittinen side.
Cycling routes by length and surface
The Palojoen cycling route is 31 km long; about half of it is gravel and the other half asphalt. On the Rekikosken cycling route, 17 km run along paved roads and 10 km along gravel roads; the route passes through forests and fields. The flat Lauhan cycling route circles Lauhansuo, following level fields and the banks of the Kokemäenjoki and Loimijoki rivers. The routes therefore differ both in surface and scenery, ranging from a mix of gravel and asphalt to fields, forests and riverbanks.
All cycling routes featured on the Huittinen page pass through the town centre. The routes can be downloaded as GPX files and saved to GPS devices or apps. Since surfaces and route lengths may change, check the latest description of your chosen route before setting off.
Discover more destinations: Säkylä, Noormarkku, Rauma, Merikarvia, Siikainen, Eurajoki, Pomarkku, Ulvila
For the wider travel overview: Satakunta.
