Fine sandy beaches, rocky coves, nature trails and architecture give a stay in Hanko a variety of possible focuses. If you want to explore the coast, you’ll find more than just one type of landscape here: birdwatching, protected nature and the city’s history are also among the things to discover.
Sandy beaches and rocky coves
Hanko has 30 km of fine sandy beaches. The remaining 130 km of coastline consists of rocky coves. These figures highlight the different types of coastline: alongside stretches of sandy beach, rocky coves also shape the landscape. When planning your visit, you can therefore decide whether you would like to focus mainly on the sandy coast or the rocky sections.
Nature and birdwatching
The present-day Uddskatan Nature Reserve was established in 1990. It is part of the Tulliniemi Bird Protection Area, which in turn belongs to Finland’s Natura 2000 network. Near Tvärminne, a nature trail winds through dunes and dry meadows. Several rare or endangered plant and animal species are found along the route; many of them are protected under the Nature Conservation Act.
The Hanko Bird Observatory, also known as Halias, conducts bird research and monitoring. It is located at the southernmost point of mainland Finland, on the Hanko Peninsula. In spring and autumn, the station offers guided birdwatching trips, introductory tours and group visits. If you would like to take part in one of these seasonal activities, check the current programme before your trip.
Walking and cycling routes
The Tulliniemi Nature Trail is 6.7 km long and can only be visited on foot; cars and bicycles are not allowed. The trail offers opportunities for birdwatching and research. Hanko also has a signposted 19 km cycling route. Blue and white stickers on the lampposts mark its route.
A shorter walk is the 1.5 km Love Path on Puistovuoret in the city centre. It was created in the late 19th century to promote the wellbeing of spa guests. Compared with the 6.7 km Tulliniemi Nature Trail, it is the shorter of the two designated walking routes; the routes also differ in their history and their relationship with nature. The short distances make it easy to explore Hanko by bicycle or on foot.
The city’s architecture and history
The Hanko Museum has presented, researched and preserved Hanko’s history since 1909. An architectural walk shares stories about buildings designed by, among others, Lars Sonck, Theodor Höjer, Jac Ahrenberg, Valdemar Aspelin and Armas Lindgren. This allows you to include the city’s architectural history in your plans, alongside its landscapes.
Views and getting your bearings
Hanko Water Tower stands 65 m above sea level and offers a panoramic view over the Hanko Peninsula and the Baltic Sea. Visits outside the stated hours can be arranged through the tourist office with a guided tour. Check with the office for the hours that apply to your visit and how to arrange one.
Hanko can be reached by car via Main Road 25. When planning your stay, you can first consider how to get there and then choose what to focus on once you arrive: coastal scenery, nature trails, birdwatching or the city’s history. The specific route distances and seasonal activities help distinguish between the different options.
Discover more destinations: Ruotsinpyhtää, Åminnefors, Helsinki, Lohja, Hattom, Sipoo, Kurkimäki, Savijoki.
For the regional travel overview: Uusimaa.
