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Ostrobothnia
The west coast area of Ostrobothnia, with its long sandy beaches (of which the dunes of Kalajoki are the best known), is an agricultural region with a sunny climate and less rain than elsewhere. There are islands between Vaasa and Kokkola with old fishermen’s villages. Hailuoto Island, with its interesting fauna, can be reached by ferry from Oulu, the area’s chief commercial and university centre.
Picturesque old wooden houses are still a feature of the coastal towns. Traditions are maintained in many local festivals where Pelimannit play music handed down through the generations. A number of Swedish-speaking Finns live on the coast. Seinäjoki has administrative buildings designed by Alvar Aalto. Ähtäri Wildlife Park is 80km (130 miles) southeast of Seinäjoki.
The region just south of the Arctic Circle along the eastern frontier is centred round Kuusamo. In Oulanka National Park, rivers with rapids run through gorge-like valleys. Seine fishing (using vertical nets) takes place on Lake Kitkajärvi. In summer, there are numerous hiking routes. Ruka Fell is a popular winter sports centre
Main towns & resorts: Kokkola, Oulu, Pietersaari, Raahe, Seinäjoki and Vaasa.
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