Finland’s tenth largest city, Kouvola is a charming place to visit in the country’s southeast region of Kymenlaakso. It is a city in which urban and rural living exist side by side, with a wealth of nearby attractions to appeal to all tastes. The region is home to almost five hundred lakes and thousands of summer cottages.
Seated by the Kymi River which winds through the region, Kouvola is a major railway hub in southern Finland, making it an easy and well-connected base from which to explore this corner of the country.
There is so much in the way of tourist attractions in the region around this charming city. Highlights include:
Repovesi National Park
The seasonally-changing landscape can be embraced in Repovesi National Park year round, where a large and varied network of hiking trails winds through rugged forest. Fishing, rafting, skiing, and other outdoor pursuits can all be enjoyed here. See six-thousand-year-old rock paintings, and even camp overnight.
Verla Groundwood and Board Mill Museum
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Verla Groundwood and Board Mill Museum showcases the earliest history of modern Finnish forestry. The mill is remarkably well preserved, having been in situ since the 1870s when it was a working mill, and has been a museum and tourist attraction since 1972. Step back in time among verdant gardens and original buildings, including the old cardboard factory, preserved in their original condition. Visit original employee cottages and prehistoric rock paintings.
Arboretum Mustila
Arboretum Mustila is arguably northern Europe’s premier forest park, and is certainly the largest and oldest. Located twenty-five kilometres from Kouvola, near the village of Elimäki, it is a lavish place of ornamental shrubberies, more than one hundred species of rhododendrons, exotic conifers, and a literal sea of flowers during the flowering season. There are three signposted trekking trails, as well as a nature trail and well-maintained strolling paths.
Tykkimäki Amusement Park
Tykkimäki Amusement Park is a fun outing for the whole family. With thirty rides and a range of kiosks and restaurants for food and refreshments, there is something for everyone, from young children to adventurous older teens. Even the carousel offers gentle fun for all ages.
Other attractions in Kouvola not to be missed include the Kouvola Model Railroad Museum, the Kouvola Tube Radio Museum, the Kasarminmäki Garrison Area, and Kouvola House.
Scandi Travel is your one-stop, premier tour company in Finland, and we are here to help you plan your trip to this charming corner of the country. From accommodation to activities and transport, we would love to facilitate your visit to Kouvola. Contact us today!
