Sail away to Suomenlinna, the island fortress

Suomenlinna is made up of 8 islands just off the coast near Helsinki. The area is easily reached by ferry from the city. We have been a couple of times and we headed there on a glorius May afternoon with my Finnish cousins.

coming in to Suomenlinna

It was built during the Swedish era as a maritime fortress and a base for the Archipelago Fleet. Work started in the mid 18th century. The fortress was extended during the Russian era. After Finland gained her independence Suomenlinna became home to a coastal artillery regiment, a submarine base and the Valmet shipyard, where ships were built after WWII for Finland’s war reparations.

home for somebody

a reminder of past battles

The fortress was handed over to civilian administration in 1973, except Pikku Mustasaari island where the naval acadamy is still located. The old buildings are still in use and restoration work continues.

The area is very popular for locals and tourists alike. The islands are beautiful, particularly in spring and summer, making them an ideal place for a picnic or just a wander about.

beautiful walkways

a great place for a picnic

early spring on Suomenlinna

in front of the church

beside a path

If you are on the island in the late afternoon you can watch the huge ships head past the island on their way to Sweden. Stand at King’s Gate and you can practically touch them as they go by.

King’s Gate

There are several restaurants and cafes on the island. There are also some very pretty shops selling Finnish arts and crafts. If you go to Helsinki, and I think you should, make sure you spend some time on Suomenlinna.

flag flying over Suomenlinna

Click here to see more on Helsinki Harbour.

I’m sorry about the “test” thing. I am having i Pad lessons and right now it is about 3 minutes from being returned to the Mac shop.  With a bit of luck things will improve.