Pyynikin Beach

The Nordic countries have a rich fishing and seafaring history with most major cities being situated on the coast. Finland’s second city, Tampere, feels like it is on the coast but the waters here don’t connect to the Baltic Sea. Instead, the city borders several large lakes within the heart of Finland. Pyynikin Beach is located on the shores of Lake Villilänsalmi giving it a somewhat different feeling to coastal beaches.

For one thing, the area has more of a tranquil air to it than many of the better known beaches along Finland’s sea coast. Instead of summer parties, Pyynikin Beach is far more family-friendly in nature. The area remains quite pristine as well, making it a greatly underrated natural beach destination with stunning views. It offers lovely vistas of the lake regions and, as a result of it being less crowded than other beaches, plenty of room to run around, spread out, and even have your own private cookout.

If you fancy getting out on the water it’s worth hiring a private fishing boat and see what’s biting, or sail to Pyynikinsaaret, a cluster of three tiny uninhabited islands nearby.

For a different kind of beach experience off the beaten track, try taking in the tranquil beauty and family friendly atmosphere at Pyynikin Beach.