Hanko

Hanko combines long sandy beaches with rocky coves, nature experiences and a distinctive architectural history. The coastline offers a variety of scenery: 30 km of fine sandy beaches contrast with a further 130 km of coastline featuring rocky coves. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Hanko, you might first consider whether you would prefer to combine your stay with the beach, nature, outdoor activities or cultural discoveries.

Beaches, coves and protected nature

The natural areas also reveal different aspects of the surroundings. The Uddskatan Nature Reserve was established in 1990. It is part of the Tulliniemi Bird Protection Area, which in turn belongs to Finland’s Natura 2000 network. Dunes and dry meadows shape the landscape along the nature trail near Tvärminne. Several rare or endangered plant and animal species occur along the route; many of them are protected under the Nature Conservation Act.

For those interested in birdwatching, the Hanko Bird Observatory, also known as Halias, is a good subject to include in your travel plans. In spring and autumn, the observatory offers guided birdwatching trips, introductory tours and group visits. Halias also conducts bird and monitoring research. The Tulliniemi Nature Trail also offers opportunities for birdwatching and research.

Getting around on foot or by bike

The Tulliniemi Nature Trail is 6.7 km long and accessible on foot only; cars and bicycles are not allowed. Keep this restriction in mind when planning your activities. Hanko also has a signposted 19 km cycling route. Blue-and-white stickers on the lamp posts mark its course.

A shorter walking option is the 1.5 km Love Path on Puistovuoret. It was created in the late 19th century to promote the wellbeing of spa guests. The different distances and ways of getting around can help you decide whether to plan a stroll, a longer walk or a bike ride during your stay. Thanks to the short distances, Hanko is easy to explore by bike or on foot.

Architecture, local history and views

The architecture walk shares stories about buildings designed by, among others, Lars Sonck, Theodor Höjer, Jac Ahrenberg, Valdemar Aspelin and Armas Lindgren. If you are interested in the city’s development, you can also visit the Hanko Museum, which has presented, researched and preserved Hanko’s history since 1909. The architecture walk and the museum offer two different perspectives: the origins of the buildings and the history of the place.

A notable viewpoint is the Hanko Water Tower. It stands 65 m above sea level and offers panoramic views of the Hanko peninsula and the Baltic Sea. You can arrange visits outside the stated opening times through the tourist office, with a guided tour.

Getting here and choosing accommodation

You can reach Hanko by car via Main Road 25. The different options give families and other travel groups something to discuss as they make a choice together, even if not everyone has the same interests.

If you would like to include other destinations in your search, you can also find pages for Vantaa, Lapinjärvi, Åminnefors, Nummi-Pusula, Lohja, Kurkimäki, Raseborg and Pernå.

For the regional travel overview: Uusimaa.