Explore South Ostrobothnia

Exploring South Ostrobothnia 

Welcome to the enchanting region of South Ostrobothnia which offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity.  The region is a harmonious mix of urban and rural life, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a balance between tranquillity and cultural exploration. If you wish to travel further from the Seinäjoki centre, here are some gems from around the region. 

The city of Lapua: 

Cultural Centre Vanha Paukku 

Located in Lapua, Cultural Centre Vanha Paukku is an art and cultural centre packed with character. The former cartridge factory was given a new lease of life as a home to the town library, museums, restaurants, boutiques, and shops, including the Lapuan Kankurit factory outlet.  

Best souvenirs from the boutiques 

Round off your visit with a spot of shopping. The factory outlet of Lapuan Kankurit, known for its high-quality textiles, offers an opportunity to make real finds. Lapuan Kankurit has long traditions in producing linen and wool products, and its factory outlet stocks an excellent selection of household products and interior design fabrics. Museum Shop Paukun Taika also offers lovely souvenirs and presents for anyone who appreciates great craftmanship. 

Website: https://vanhapaukku.fi/myymalat-2/ 

Jokilaakso Garden Centre 

Jokilaakso Garden Centre is a popular visitor attraction and recreational area in the centre of Lapua, next to the Lapua Cathedral. 

The garden centre was established at the beginning of the 2000s on a site where a women’s agricultural institute operated for more than a hundred years. The old institute buildings, built in stages in various styles, lend the garden centre its special character. 

Thousands of plants have been planted in the area. These include traditional garden plants but there are also some novelties and rare plants. The park covers an area of two hectares. All the plants in the area are marked with signs carrying their names. Entry to the park is free. 

Website: https://www.visitlakeus.fi/en/destinationcard/jokilaakso-garden-centre/  

Lapua is relatively easily reached by train from Seinäjoki. For timetables and ticket prices, please see: https://www.vr.fi/en 

The Ähtäri Zoo:  

Ähtäri Zoo is Finland’s oldest zoo built in a natural environment. Here you can experience many wonders of the natural world! 

While best known for its brown bears and great pandas, Ähtäri Zoo is home to several other exciting species from the Nordic region and Asia. It houses more than 50 animal species, including wolverines and the endangered red pandas, snow leopards and takins. 

The zoo’s easy-to-navigate route runs through a wooded area. There are also picnic areas for enjoying a packed lunch or grilling sausages along the route. In summer, snacks and other refreshments can also be bought at the Kaakkolampi summer café, Lokki boat café and Café Farmi. 

Ähtäri Zoo’s open farm offers an introduction to farm animals and farming. 

Website: https://www.ahtarizoo.fi/index.php/en/ 

Keskisen Kyläkauppa – Finland’s largest department store 

Located in Tuuri (which means luck in Finnish), Keskisen Kyläkauppa store is your best pick for finding unique Finnish souvenirs! Tuuri is a small village with approximately 700 inhabitants. 

The atmosphere, stunning details, and surprising encounters the store offers are impossible to put into words – they must be experienced in person. 

Finland’s most affordable prices, best selection, and friendliest staff, combined with a spectacular setting and exciting events, make for a memorable experience. In addition, the centre’s restaurants serve delicious meals to suit all tastes in a relaxed environment. 

Website: https://tuuri.fi/en/