Hossa National Park
A park of crystal-clear lakes and ancient rock paintings near the eastern border - Finland's newest national park, founded for the country's centenary.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
Hossa became a national park in 2017 to mark Finland's hundred years of independence, protecting a landscape of clear eskers, pine forest and lakes so transparent you can see the bottom far below. Its treasure is Varikallio, a cliff face by the water painted with figures thousands of years old.
What you actually see
- The Varikallio rock paintings - ancient ochre figures on a lakeside cliff, best seen from a boat.
- Clear lakes - exceptionally transparent water, popular for diving and paddling.
- Esker ridges - the sandy glacial ridges the trails follow.
- Pine forest - old, open pinewood typical of the eastern border country.
When to go
Summer for paddling, diving and the clear water; autumn for colour. It is a warm-season park, remote and quiet even at its busiest.
Honest expectations
It is far out on the eastern border, so reaching it takes real driving with little around. The rock paintings are subtle and best appreciated with a boat and some patience. Facilities are simple and the appeal is quiet nature rather than big sights.
Nearby
Suomussalmi with its Silent People art installation is the nearest town; the border wilds spread east.
What to pack for Hossa National Park
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
