UNESCO Global Geoparks in Finland

UNESCO Global Geoparks tell the story of our planet's evolution, showcasing ancient mountain ranges, sandy beaches, meteorite craters, continental glaciers kilometres thick, and vast volumes of meltwater shaping the terrain. Finland's five Geoparks illustrate the country's evolution over 3.5 billion years to its present form, all holding the official UNESCO Global Geopark status.

Learn more about Finland's Geoparks below and find one near your travel destination.

A landscape sculpted by water – Salpausselkä UNESCO Global Geopark spans across six municipalities, stretching from the legendary terrain of the First Salpausselkä ridge in Lahti to the southern shores of expansive Lake Päijänne. This forest-covered region is crisscrossed by ancient glacial rivers and features spectacular Salpausselkä ridges, vivid reminders of the Ice Age's climactic end when the continental ice sheet's edge paused its retreat.

Within Salpausselkä Geopark, these ridges intermingle with ancient bedrock outcrops, hundreds of lakes, and narrow eskers, creating a unique landscape shaped by glacial forces. Beneath the surface lies a hidden treasure: thick layers of gravel and sand harbouring vast reserves of pristine groundwater. The area offers diverse terrain and landscapes with numerous trails for hikers, walkers, and excellent cycling routes.

Nestled within South Karelia and South Savo provinces, Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark invites adventurers to explore the origins of its immaculate lake landscape. Formed over 1,900 million years ago from delicate bedrock emerging from the ancient sea, Saimaa is now characterized by clear waters and lush forests.

Comprising nine unique municipalities, the Saimaa Geopark features 65 distinct geosites, combining geology and cultural heritage and offering visitors a range of activities from hiking and cycling to cultural pursuits. Alongside ancient beaches and prehistoric rock paintings, Lake Saimaa, is home to the beloved Saimaa ringed seal. Lake Saimaa offers year-round adventures, including seal spotting, thrilling boat trips on Suur-Saimaa, dry-suit floating in the River Vuoksi in Imatra, and the soothing warmth of a floating sauna.

Lauhanvuori-Hämeenkangas UNESCO Global Geopark sprawls across the southern Suomenselkä region, spanning South Ostrobothnia, Satakunta, and Pirkanmaa. Its landscapes, adorned with ancient rocks and cliffs, bear testament to mountain ranges folded into the area nearly 2 billion years ago. As these mighty mountains eroded away over time, they shaped the marshy terrain seen today. The geopark boasts unusually extensive natural marshlands for southern Finland, covering a third of its surface area, formed through cycles of glaciation and warm climates.

Hikers and nature enthusiasts can explore diverse trails, from pine forests to enchanting bogs. Discover the Geopark's natural wonders up close, take a refreshing dip in clear lakes and unique saline waters, and savour memorable dishes made from local, pure ingredients at nearby restaurants and cafés.

The Impact Crater Lake UNESCO Global Geopark lies within the heart of the South Ostrobothnia Lake District. Its centrepiece, Lappajärvi, stands as Europe's largest crater lake. Formed by a meteorite striking the Earth at cosmic velocity, this event caused widespread devastation, eradicating life over hundreds of kilometres and obliterating the meteorite itself in a powerful explosion. Today, the geopark preserves visible traces of this ancient catastrophe, offering insight into the scale of the event millions of years later.

The area features several routes, including the Crater Lake Geo-route, which highlights geological sites around Lappajärvi, and various cultural bike trails that circle the crater.

Rokua UNESCO Global Geopark resides in Northern Ostrobothnia in the area of Muhos, Utajärvi, and Vaala municipalities. Offering diverse camping options, natural and cultural attractions, and tourist services, Rokua Geopark invites visitors on captivating journeys through landscapes sculpted by ancient glaciers. Its rolling ridges, pristine lakes and ponds, and fertile river valleys vividly narrate the legacy of the Ice Age.

Experience the year-round beauty and activities of Rokua Geopark. Explore hiking paths and trails for all skill levels, or enjoy mountain biking, fishing, foraging for berries and mushrooms, and winter sports like snowshoeing and fat-biking.

Make a conscious effort to protect wildlife and set a positive example by gathering your trash and any litter left behind by other hikers by disposing of it in designated waste bins. Enjoy forest outings for wandering freely, foraging, and camping responsibly. However, remember to familiarize yourself with Everyman’s Rights beforehand to follow proper outdoor etiquette in nature reserves.