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Örö: Fortress Island Turned Archipelago Paradise

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Explore Örö Island: Where military history meets pristine nature in the heart of the Finnish Archipelago National Park.

Örö Island, a former military base in the Archipelago Sea National Park, offers a unique blend of history and nature. Explore well-preserved fortifications, rare plant and animal species, and stunning coastal scenery on this car-free island easily accessible by ferry.

A brief summary to Örö

  • Kimitoön, FI

Local tips

  • Book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the summer months, to ensure your spot on the boat.
  • Bring comfortable shoes for hiking, as the island features varied terrain and several kilometers of trails.
  • Pack binoculars for birdwatching, as Örö is a prime location for observing migratory birds and rare species.
  • Respect the environment by staying on marked trails and following the instructions and rules of the Archipelago National Park.
  • Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
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Getting There

  • Ferry

    The primary access to Örö Island is via ferry from Kasnäs on Kimitoön. Kasnäs is accessible by car or bus from major cities like Helsinki and Turku. From the Kasnäs harbor, several ferry options are available, including Wilson Charter and M/S Jurmo. Wilson Charter operates daily between June and August, with less frequent trips during other months. M/S Jurmo operates year-round, with varying schedules. Typical cost for a round-trip ferry ticket with Wilson Charter is approximately €30 for adults and €15 for children (3-12 years). Check the specific schedules and book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, through the Wilson Charter website or the M/S Jurmo. The ferry ride takes approximately 30-60 minutes.

  • Taxi Boat

    For a more flexible and direct route, consider a taxi boat from Kasnäs or nearby locations. Several local operators offer taxi boat services to Örö, providing a faster but more expensive alternative to the ferry. Expect to pay around €150 or more for a taxi boat, depending on the operator, boat size, and distance. Contact local taxi boat services such as Taksivene Örö - Janne Tirkkonen or Taxibåt Roger Granlund for bookings and pricing. This option is ideal for groups or those with specific time constraints.

Discover more about Örö

Örö Island, located in the Archipelago Sea National Park, is a captivating destination with a rich history and diverse natural environment. For nearly a century, Örö served as a closed military area, first under Tsarist Russia and later as a part of Finland's coastal defense. In 2015, the island was opened to the public, revealing a unique landscape shaped by both military activity and natural processes. Visitors to Örö can explore well-preserved military structures, including barracks, artillery batteries, and fortifications. The island's strategic importance is evident in the massive Obukhov cannons, rare examples of their kind. Hiking trails wind through diverse habitats, from sandy beaches and coastal meadows to old-growth forests. The island is home to a variety of rare and endangered plant and animal species, making it a haven for nature lovers. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the diverse avian population, particularly during migration seasons. Örö offers two main marked trails: the blue trail (6" Circuit) and the red trail (120mm Circuit), each approximately 5 km long. These trails lead visitors through varied terrains and historical sites. The island also features old cobblestone roads, remnants of its military past, adding to the unique atmosphere. Today, Örö is a popular destination for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the unique blend of military history and natural beauty.

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