Geoparks Invite You to Explore Geologically Unique Sites
UNESCO Global Geopark sites are geologically valuable areas located in different parts of the world. They illustrate the birth of the landscape and the shape of the terrain, and highlight sites, services and culture in the area. Geoparks bring together nature, cultural heritage, sustainable tourism and environmental education.
In Finland, four areas have been accepted into the UNESCO Global Geopark network: Rokua UGGp, Lauhanvuori – Hämeenkangas UGGp, Saimaa UGGp and Salpausselkä UGGp.
A scenery shaped by water – the Salpausselkä Geopark is the latest addition to geoparks
The latest newcomer in the network is the Salpausselkä Geopark, which received the UNESCO Global Geopark status in 2022. The Salpausselkä Geopark is located in the area of six municipalities in the Päijät-Häme region. It highlights geologically important sites and impressive sceneries from the first Salpausselkä ridge to the southern part of Lake Päijänne.
Some of the sites are located in the surroundings of the Lahti Sports Centre, which is familiar to many winter sport enthusiasts. The Lahti ski jumping venue is constructed in a kettle formed during the ice age. Other internationally significant terrains and landscapes in the area include the Päijänne National Park, with its ridge and rocky islands, and the Pulkkilanharju esker crossing Lake Päijänne, which has been voted the most beautiful scenic route in Finland.
Water has shaped the landscape of the area. The terminal moraines of the Salpausselkä ridges, formed through deposits from ancient glacier rivers, represent the heritage of the ice age. Ice and water have also shaped the ancient bedrock of the area, created nearly two billion years ago. This can be viewed at several impressive sites, such as Pirunpesä in Tiirismaa. Water is also a central part of the landscape in the form of hundreds of lakes and rivers, and water routes can be used to explore the wide area. You can visit the nature sites in the area via marked routes either on your own or with a professional guide.
The Geological Survey of Finland has been involved in the establishment of all UNESCO Global Geopark sites in Finland. At the moment, the Kraatterijärvi Geopark is preparing its application for a UNESCO Global Geopark.
Further information
Finland’s UNESCO Global Geopark sites are presented on the Nationalparks.fi website:
Geoparks on Nationalparks.fi
