Background

Haralanharju Observation Tower: A Vista of Finnish Heritage

Experience breathtaking Finnish landscapes and cultural history at the iconic Haralanharju Observation Tower in Kangasala.

4.4

Ascend the Haralanharju Observation Tower in Kangasala for panoramic views of the Finnish landscape that inspired the famous poem 'A Summer's Day in Kangasala'. Enjoy the summer café and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural history of this iconic landmark.

A brief summary to Haralanharju Observation Tower & Summer Café

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and forests.
  • Try the local pastries at the café for an authentic Finnish treat.
  • Bring your Mobile Pay App for easy entry payment and café purchases.
  • Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly, especially at higher altitudes.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Tampere, take bus number 40 towards Kangasala. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Get off at the 'Haralanharjuntie' stop. From the bus stop, walk approximately 1 km along Haralanharjuntie until you reach the Haralanharju Observation Tower & Summer Café. Bus tickets can be purchased from the driver or via the mobile app; prices may vary, but expect to pay around €3-€6.

  • Car

    From Tampere, take the E12 highway towards Kangasala. After about 20 km, take the exit towards Kangasala/Seinäjoki. Continue on Route 323 for approximately 5 km until you reach a roundabout. Take the second exit onto Haralanharjuntie. Follow Haralanharjuntie for about 3 km. The Haralanharju Observation Tower & Summer Café will be on your right at Haralanharjuntie 142, 36120 Kangasala. There is parking available near the café. Parking is free.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Tampere and Kangasala. A taxi from Tampere to Haralanharju will cost approximately €29-€35 and take about 15 minutes. From Kangasala center, expect a shorter ride with a lower fare. Taxi stands are available in Kangasala. You can also call a taxi from Tampereen Aluetaksi Oy. Expect to pay a call charge of 2,84 €/call + 0,55 €/min + local network / cellphone charge.

Unlock the Best of Haralanharju Observation Tower & Summer Café

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Haralanharju Observation Tower & Summer Café

The Haralanharju Observation Tower in Kangasala offers visitors a chance to experience the stunning Finnish landscape that inspired Zacharias Topelius, one of Finland's most celebrated authors, to write his famous poem “A Summer's Day in Kangasala”. The poem later became a popular song and the regional anthem of Pirkanmaa. From the top of the tower, you can admire the idyllic views stretching over the fields and the glistening Lake Vesijärvi. Haralanharju itself is a glacial landform known as a drumlin, a hill formed by glacial ice. These formations provide insight into the historical movement of ice across the Finnish landscape. Kangasala has been a popular tourist destination since the early 19th century, with observation towers built on its ridges to showcase the nationally significant natural and cultural landscapes. The first observation tower at Haralanharju was built in 1895 but was destroyed by fire in 1922. A second wooden tower, constructed in 1932, met the same fate in 2007 due to arson. The current steel tower, the third iteration, was erected in 2009. Today, the tower stands as a testament to the community's dedication to preserving this iconic viewpoint. During the summer months, a café operates at the tower, offering refreshments and a place to relax while soaking in the scenery. The tower also hosts live music and theater performances in its courtyard during the summer.

Popular Experiences near Haralanharju Observation Tower & Summer Café

Popular Hotels near Haralanharju Observation Tower & Summer Café

Select Currency