Ruotsinpyhtää, a small former municipality 100 kilometers east of Helsinki, is a region steeped in history and natural beauty that is all too often overlooked. A part of Loviisa since 2010, Ruotsinpyhtää is known for its picturesque landscapes and in particular the well-preserved historical Strömfors Ironworks that was founded back in 1695.
Featured image by Julia Kivelä and Visit Finland.
Nowadays, Ruotsinpyhtää offers tourists a range of experiences: here is our list of reasons to visit Ruotsinpyhtää.
Step Back in Time at the Strömfors Ironworks Forge Museum
Located in a unique cultural and historical ironworks area about 18 kilometres from the centre of Loviisa, Strömfors Ironworks Forge Museum (Strömforsin ruukin pajamuseo) is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ruotsinpyhtää. In 2023, the museum had a total of 20,800 visitors! In the museum, which is only open in the summer, you can learn about the work of iron smiths and blacksmiths in the old days, and see what kind of equipment was used to make iron objects such as nails and tools.
If you are interested in seeing what the Strömfors Ironworks Forge museum looks like, watch the video below (the video starts at the point where they enter the museum).
Visitors who visit the museum at the right time might even get lucky and catch one of the forging shows where a real blacksmith demonstrates how iron was forged in the old days at Strömfors Ironworks. For more information, check out their Facebook page.
Wander Along the Scenic Kukuljärvi Hiking Trail
Embark on a journey that begins at the historic Strömfors Ironworks and meanders through a tapestry of breathtaking landscapes. Starting from the picturesque Strömfors ironworks area, the Kukuljärvi Hiking Trail spans 9.3 km and includes a detour to Brann Cave. Marked with red waymarks and designed for clockwise travel, the trail initially follows an old railway line once used for transporting firewood. This early section is lush, and boots are recommended, especially in wet conditions. Along the route, there’s a rest stop by the Kymijoki River.
The terrain shifts dramatically after crossing the road to Strömfors, leading to the most breathtaking parts of the hike. The path ascends steep cliffs, with four rocky areas offering panoramic views. The highest point is 55 meters above sea level. In some steep sections, ropes and steps are provided for easier navigation.
Along the way, you’ll find a welcoming picnic area, ideal for a peaceful break amidst nature. This scenic trail is a perfect escape for hikers seeking both adventure and tranquility, inviting you to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the natural surroundings.
Experience Unique Accommodation on Secluded Island
If you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the Laawu Wellsters will offer you just that. This beautifully designed and eco-friendly small hut with a stunning view over Kymi river is the nature-lover’s dream.
Guests can kayak along the tranquil Kymijoki River, enjoy outdoor meals, and experience the peacefulness of nature. Actually, guests will have to paddle for around 3 kilometers just to get there! The “laavu” provides a serene sleeping environment with clean sheets, perfect for watching the sunrise. It’s equipped with solar panels for green energy and an eco-toilet, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint.
The price is currently 290 euros / night. The price includes bedlinen, outdoor cooking equipment, a canoe for two with paddles, life vests and a map included as well as the right to “use” the tiny island on which the Laavy Wellsters is built.
Explore the Historical Ruotsinpyhtää Church
Constructed in the 1770s, the rather unusual-looking octagonal church in the Gothic Revival style is a must-see for anyone visiting Ruotsinpyhtää. The church is perhaps best-known for its altarpiece, which was painted by the renowned modernist painter Helene Schjerfbeck in 1898. The church is open to visitors in the summer, from early/mid-June to early August.
Enjoy Go-Karting with Friends and Family
The Strömforsin Ruukki area really has it all, doesn’t it? The 300 meters long Eagle Karting indoor go-kart track in Ruotsinpyhtää is extremely well-rated (4.9 stars out of 5 on Facebook, with 81 reviews) and suitable for groups looking for a thrilling adrenaline rush.
It is the perfect place for birthday parties, out-of-office social events, bachelor parties and once in a while it is open for the public (15 euros for 10 minutes of driving). You can find more information about this and other special events on their Facebook page.
Experience Unique Exhibitions in the Art Galleries
Located in the historical setting of Strömforsin Ruukki, Strömfors Art consists of three galleries that are open in the summer. In the galleries, Finnish and international artists exhibit their art to visitors of the historical ironworks village of Strömfors. If you want to know what is on display, you can for instance follow their Facebook or Instagram page.
Challenge Yourself in Escape Room Strömfors
The trendy escape room challenges can now be found in Ruotsinpyhtää, in the Strömfors Ruukki area. There are currently two different escape rooms there: one set in the days of the Finnish civil war and another one focusing on witches and the supernatural.
These escape rooms can be played in Finnish, Swedish or English. Teenagers aged 12 to 16 are only allowed when accompanied by an adult. Recommended group size for these escape room challenges is two to six people.
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