The Kvarken Archipelago - A Natural Wonder

Explore Finland's Kvarken Archipelago: a UNESCO site showcasing unique land uplift, diverse wildlife, and rich maritime history in a stunning natural setting.

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The Kvarken Archipelago - Zone B

The Kvarken Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is characterized by its unique geological features, shaped by the ice age and ongoing land uplift. Explore its flat islands, shallow bays, and rich birdlife in Malax, Finland.

A brief summary to The Kvarken Archipelago - Zone B

Malax, FI

Local tips

Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the archipelago is home to diverse bird species.
Check ferry schedules in advance, especially if planning to visit multiple islands.
Dress in layers, as the sea breeze can be quite cold, even in summer.
Be aware of the regulations regarding access to certain areas during the bird nesting season (May 1 - July 15).
Consider visiting the World Heritage Gateway Visitor Centre for information and tips on exploring the archipelago.

Getting There

Ferry

To reach the Kvarken Archipelago's islands, ferries are essential. From Vaasa, several ferry services operate, connecting the mainland to various islands within the archipelago. The Korsbådafjärden ferry, part of the Björkö-Panike hiking trail, operates from May to September, offering access to Stora Segelsören. From June 16 to August 15, 2025, the ferry runs daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The ferry is unmanned, requiring users to operate it themselves after strong identification. Instructions are available at the Korsbådafjärden ferry terminal. Costs: * Korsbådafjärden ferry: Free. Note: The ferry may not operate during low water levels or strong winds.
Public Transport

From Vaasa city center, take a local bus towards Replot or Björköby. These buses connect to the Replot bridge, the longest bridge in Finland, which provides access to the main islands of the archipelago. From the bus stop on the islands, local roads and trails provide access to various points of interest. Costs: * Local bus fare: Approximately €3-5 for a single trip. Note: Bus schedules may be limited, especially on weekends and during the off-season. Check local transport information for up-to-date timetables.

Discover more about The Kvarken Archipelago - Zone B

The Kvarken Archipelago, located off the coast of Malax, Finland, is a testament to the powerful forces of nature and the ongoing process of geological change. This remarkable archipelago, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its unique landscape, characterized by flat islands, shallow stony beaches, and a vibrant ecosystem. Formed by the melting of the continental ice sheet between 10,000 and 24,000 years ago, the Kvarken Archipelago showcases unusual ridged washboard moraines, known as 'De Geer moraines'. These formations, deposited by the ice sheet, create a varied and fascinating landscape. What sets the Kvarken Archipelago apart is the rapid glacio-isostatic uplift, a phenomenon where the land, once weighed down by the glacier's immense weight, is now rising at one of the fastest rates in the world. This uplift, approximately 9 mm per year, dramatically reshapes the landscape within a human lifetime, with abandoned boathouses now sitting on dry land. The archipelago's unique environment supports a diverse range of flora and fauna. The shallow waters teem with fish, attracting a rich birdlife, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Historically, the Kvarken Archipelago has been shaped by human activity, with fishing, seal hunting, and seafaring playing a central role in the lives of its inhabitants. Today, the archipelago offers a variety of experiences, from hiking and kayaking to fishing and exploring the charming villages that dot the islands. Visitors can delve into the archipelago's natural and cultural history at the World Heritage Gateway Visitor Centre, located near the Replot Bridge. The center provides information about the area and tips for exploring the archipelago. Whether you're drawn to its geological wonders, its diverse wildlife, or its rich cultural heritage, the Kvarken Archipelago promises an unforgettable journey.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Aava Kertun Kotitila

29.2 km

Discover the charm of Aava Kertun Kotitila, a captivating animal park in Södra Vallgrund, where families can connect with nature and enjoy unique animal encounters.

Jannes Saloon

31.5 km

Discover the essence of Finnish cuisine at Jannes Saloon in Vaasa, where every meal is a delightful experience steeped in local tradition and flavor.

Öjberget

32.2 km

Experience the magic of winter at Öjberget, Vaasa's premier ski resort, offering slopes for all skill levels amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Wasaline Terminal

33.4 km

Explore Finland's stunning archipelago from Wasaline Terminal in Vaasa, your gateway to unforgettable maritime adventures.

Sandö

35.5 km

Experience the breathtaking landscapes and tranquil beaches of Sandö Island in Vaasa, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Vaasa city sign

35.8 km

Experience the charm of Vaasa, a beautiful coastal city in Finland known for its stunning marina, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere.

Inre Hamnen Terrace

35.8 km

Experience the best of Finnish cuisine at Inre Hamnen Terrace, where delightful dishes meet stunning waterfront views in Vaasa.

Fiskdisken

35.8 km

Experience the freshest seafood in Vaasa at Fiskdisken, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere in a charming beer garden.

Design Center Muova (Western Finland)

35.9 km

Explore the heart of innovation at Design Center Muova in Vaasa, where creativity and technology converge to inspire and captivate.

Gustavsborgs strand

35.9 km

Discover the serene beauty of Gustavsborgs Strand, a stunning beach in Vaasa, Finland, perfect for relaxation and seaside adventures.

Setterberg Park

36.0 km

Discover the tranquility of Setterberg Park in Vaasa, a lush urban oasis perfect for relaxation, picnics, and family adventures amid nature.

Kustaanlinnan Päiväkoti

36.0 km

Experience the vibrant after school culture at Kustaanlinnan Päiväkoti in Vaasa, where children thrive through creative learning and community interaction.

Korv Görans

36.1 km

Discover the vibrant flavors of Korv Görans in Vaasa - a grill paradise offering fast food delights in a bustling market atmosphere.

Long Van Jäätelö

36.1 km

Discover the delightful flavors of Long Van Jäätelö in Vaasa, Finland, where every scoop is a sweet adventure waiting to be savored.

Vaasa Church or Trinity Church

36.2 km

Explore the stunning Vaasa Church, a beautiful Lutheran landmark in Finland that blends architectural elegance with rich cultural history.

Unmissable attractions to see

Åminne Folkpark

27.0 km

Experience the charm of Åminne Folkpark in Malax: a vibrant venue for events, culture, and community in the beautiful Finnish archipelago.

Kvarken Boat Museum

27.2 km

Explore Finland's largest boat museum in the Kvarken Archipelago, showcasing Ostrobothnian maritime history and traditional boat-building from 1820-1993.

Södersunds Väderkvarn

31.2 km

Explore Södersunds Väderkvarn, a historical windmill in Vaasa, Finland, where tradition meets scenic beauty amid tranquil landscapes.

Meteoria Söderfjärden Visitor Centre

31.5 km

Explore the geological wonders and natural beauty of Vaasa at Meteoria Söderfjärden Visitor Centre, a must-visit for all nature enthusiasts.

Söderfjärden Torrläggning

31.6 km

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Söderfjärden, a natural gem near Vaasa, Finland, perfect for outdoor adventures.

Öjen Nature Trail

33.1 km

Explore the serene Öjen Nature Trail near Vaasa: an old-growth forest with diverse habitats, folk tales, and peaceful hiking for all ages.

Tropiclandia

34.8 km

Experience the thrill and relaxation at Tropiclandia, Vaasa's tropical water park paradise, perfect for families and adventure seekers.

Zip Adventure Park

34.9 km

Experience the thrill of zip-lining and adventure courses at Zip Adventure Park, a top family-friendly attraction in Vaasa, Finland.

Wasa Graffitilandia

35.0 km

Discover Wasa Graffitilandia, an outdoor gallery in Vaasa showcasing stunning street art from local and international artists, a must-visit for art lovers.

Maritime museum of Vaasa

35.6 km

Explore Vaasa's seafaring past: from historic shipyards to luxury yachts, discover maritime treasures at the Palosaari strait museum.

Sea Eagle - Finnish Aviation Monument

35.6 km

Discover the Sea Eagle Finnish Aviation Monument in Vaasa, a unique homage to aviation history set against breathtaking natural landscapes.

Landhöjning

35.7 km

Discover Landhöjning in Vaasa, Finland - a stunning natural marvel showcasing post-glacial rebound and rich historical significance.

Post-glacial Rebound (the Rise of Land)

35.7 km

Explore the breathtaking Post-glacial Rebound in Vaasa, where nature's resilience shapes stunning landscapes and unique geological features.

Ukkokari uimaranta

35.8 km

Discover Ukkokari Beach in Vaasa: a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying Finland's stunning coastal scenery.

Kuntsi Museum of Modern Art

35.8 km

Explore the Kuntsi Museum of Modern Art in Vaasa, showcasing contemporary masterpieces and enriching cultural experiences.

Essential places to dine

Åminne Restaurang

27.0 km

Discover authentic Finnish cuisine at Åminne Restaurang in Malax - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

Ravintola Seglis - Restaurang Seglis

35.0 km

Discover the essence of Scandinavian cuisine at Ravintola Seglis in Vaasa – where tradition meets modern dining.

Saaristoravintola Ukkokari

35.7 km

Experience exquisite dining at Saaristoravintola Ukkokari, where local flavors meet breathtaking views in Finland's stunning archipelago.

Sulvan Kestikievari

35.8 km

Discover authentic Finnish cuisine at Sulvan Kestikievari – where every meal tells a story of local flavors and heartfelt hospitality.

Faros Restaurant Ship

35.8 km

Discover exquisite dining on water at Faros Restaurant Ship in Vaasa – where culinary delights meet stunning harbor views.

Restaurant Hejm

35.8 km

Experience authentic Scandinavian flavors at Restaurant Hejm in Vaasa - where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.

Strampen

35.9 km

Discover the essence of Finnish cuisine at Strampen in Vaasa - where tradition meets modern flavor in a cozy atmosphere.

DB Wasa Restaurants AB Oy

35.9 km

Experience the best of Finnish cuisine at DB Wasa Restaurants AB Oy in Vaasa – where tradition meets modern dining.

Bacchus & Svenska Klubben

35.9 km

Discover exquisite dining at Bacchus & Svenska Klubben in Vaasa - where culinary artistry meets elegance in every dish.

Teatterinaiset

36.1 km

Discover the authentic flavors of Finland at Teatterinaiset in Vaasa, where every dish tells a story of local heritage and culinary excellence.

Food House Power Bay,Vaasa ravintolat Oy

36.1 km

Discover authentic Finnish flavors at Food House Power Bay in Vaasa - where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.

Food House Power Bay,Vaasa ravintolat Oy

Pizzabistro Marco Polo

36.3 km

Discover delicious Italian cuisine at Pizzabistro Marco Polo in Vaasa - where authentic pizza meets inviting ambiance.

Nordic Abyssinia/Abyssinian Livingroom

36.3 km

Savor authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Nordic Abyssinia in Vaasa—where every meal tells a story of tradition and flavor.

Bank Food & Wine

36.3 km

Discover the culinary treasures at Bank Food & Wine in Vaasa - where Finnish flavors meet fine dining in a cozy atmosphere.

Ravintola Loftet

36.4 km

Experience authentic Finnish cuisine at Ravintola Loftet, where every dish tells a story of local tradition and flavor.

Explore Avocas in Vaasa for an unforgettable shopping experience filled with trendy women's fashion, unique accessories, and excellent customer service.

Experience Finnish hospitality at Wanha Mestari, a cozy pub in Vaasa known for local brews and delightful atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover The Kvarken Archipelago - Zone B with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

The Kvarken Archipelago - A Natural Wonder

A brief summary to The Kvarken Archipelago - Zone B

Local tips

Getting There

Ferry

Public Transport

Unlock the Best of The Kvarken Archipelago - Zone B

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about The Kvarken Archipelago - Zone B

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Aava Kertun Kotitila

Jannes Saloon

Öjberget

Wasaline Terminal

Sandö

Vaasa city sign

Inre Hamnen Terrace

Fiskdisken

Design Center Muova (Western Finland)

Gustavsborgs strand

Setterberg Park

Kustaanlinnan Päiväkoti

Korv Görans

Long Van Jäätelö

Vaasa Church or Trinity Church

Unmissable attractions to see

Åminne Folkpark

Kvarken Boat Museum

Södersunds Väderkvarn

Meteoria Söderfjärden Visitor Centre

Söderfjärden Torrläggning

Öjen Nature Trail

Tropiclandia

Zip Adventure Park

Wasa Graffitilandia

Maritime museum of Vaasa

Sea Eagle - Finnish Aviation Monument

Landhöjning

Post-glacial Rebound (the Rise of Land)

Ukkokari uimaranta

Kuntsi Museum of Modern Art

Essential places to dine

Åminne Restaurang

Ravintola Seglis - Restaurang Seglis

Saaristoravintola Ukkokari

Sulvan Kestikievari

Faros Restaurant Ship

Restaurant Hejm

Strampen

DB Wasa Restaurants AB Oy

Bacchus & Svenska Klubben

Teatterinaiset

Food House Power Bay,Vaasa ravintolat Oy

Pizzabistro Marco Polo

Nordic Abyssinia/Abyssinian Livingroom

Bank Food & Wine

Ravintola Loftet

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Södra Vallgrund Handelslag

Sommaröhallen

Rose Madeleine

Sisustus Säde

Taiga Chocolate Oy

JACK & JONES

Ashabi Luovuus

The Body Shop

PENTIK

Clas Ohlson

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

Vörå handicraft shop

Marimekko Vaasa

Onnen Sydän

Avocas

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Smuggler's Nest

Sundom Wine

Navetta bar

Funky Station