More perfect day trips from Turku

For a dose of culture, head to Söderlångvik Manor. The 500-year-old building was bought by Amos Anderson in 1927, a renowned Swedish-speaking Finn who wore many hats in his lifetime. As well as a business mogul, newspaper publisher, and parliamentary representative, Anderson was a great lover of the arts. He did everything in his power to support the cultural sector, even establishing a foundation that would stay true to this mission long after his death. It’s this association which now owns Söderlångvik Manor and it has more than risen to the challenge. You’ll find dozens of artworks to admire in the impressive museum here, including some that Anderson collected himself. 

How to get there

Söderlångvik Manor is not far from Dalsbruk Ironworks Village. It’s roughly an hour’s drive from Turku, so hire a car from Avis Car Hire.

History buffs, take note: the archipelago is home to some of the most historically significant buildings in the entire country. In fact, the church and former hospital on the island of Seili have been placed under the protection of the Finnish Heritage Agency. These buildings were witness to the island’s bleakest years, when Seili was used as a hospital for people with leprosy and later as the site of the nation’s first public mental health facility. It was a tragic time: many patients were taken by force and never returned to the mainland. Nowadays, Seili is used by the Archipelago Research Institute, but you’re welcome to explore the historic buildings. Be sure to contact Visit Seili in advance if you’d like a guided tour in English.

How to get there

Between May and September, M/s Norrskär cruises between Turku and Seili. If you’d like to leave from Nagu, M/s Östern sails to the island between May and August and M/s Kokkomaa takes the lead in the winter months.  

There’s nothing like a kayaking adventure to truly experience the archipelago, so make your way to Nagu to join Nagu Seakayak on a guided one-day course. Summertime is magical on the water, but Nagu Sea Kayak even runs their courses in the winter months (as long, of course, as the sea hasn’t turned to ice). No matter the season, you’re in good hands; all you’ve got to bring is a water bottle, some snacks, and a dry set of clothes. You can also choose a yoga-paddling course, which has been created in partnership with Yoga Archipelago. You’ll spend a few hours paddling and then you can repay your muscles with a good stretch at the Yoga Archipelago studio. 

How to get there

From Turku, Nagu is less than 90 minutes by car. You can also take a Föli bus or hop aboard M/s Norsskär, the same ferry that travels to Seili between May and September.