Outdoor
Once upon a time, there was a town you never wanted to leave.
In Kristinestad, you encounter pure Finnish nature and the constant presence of the sea. Here, everyday luxury awaits — something hard to find elsewhere. We offer peaceful forests, open fields, fresh coastal winds, and serene shores that invite both relaxation and adventure.
Active outdoor life – your way
Rent a bike and explore the area at your own pace, or head out onto the lake with a SUP board or kayak from summer rental company Wildoo. For those who prefer to get around on foot, there are plenty of options: the hiking trails and ski tracks of Bötomberg, the nature trail in Skaftung, the paths on Storholmen in Perus and several nature trails close to the centre, such as the Tegelbrukbacken–Norrfjärden nature trail, the Blåbärsskogen exercise trail and the Björnkärrsslingan trail.
Bötombergen
About 15 km northeast of Kristinestad's city centre lies the unique Bötomberg area, where five mountain peaks rise clearly above the otherwise flat Ostrobothnia region. At Vargberget, a cave has been found that is the largest in Finland in terms of surface area. What makes Varggrottan so amazing is that objects made by Neanderthals 120,000 years ago have been found there! Varggrottan is by far the oldest known settlement in the Nordic countries. You can also take a peek inside Varggrottan – but only through a grille.
From the Bötombergen Ski Centre, you can go hiking along excellent hiking trails in the summer. You can see the large stone fields formed during the Ice Age, ravines, stone walls, groves and the rich flora with the rare sipprankan plant. In winter, Bötombergen is a popular destination for skiers and slalom skiers. There are now three official hiking trails on Bötombergen. Follow the blue, orange or yellow trail. Markings are found on the trees.
Nature & The Sea
Our town opens up to pure Finnish nature, a living countryside, and fresh winds that invite you to pause and explore every day of the year. Walk through silent forests, cycle along the coastline, greet grazing animals, spread out a picnic blanket in greenery, or let the sea touch your toes.
Discover our hiking trails and nature trails
For those who want to be active, there is a wide selection of trails and paths:
Bötomberg outdoor recreation area – several hiking trails and ski tracks of varying lengths.
Tegelbrukbacken–Norrfjärden nature trail – close to the city centre, easy to reach.
Skaftungs nature trail – a beautiful combination of coastal nature and forest.
Storholmen in Perus – trails in a natural environment.
The Blåbärsskogen exercise trail and Björnkärrsslingan – perfect for a shorter run close to town.
Forntida Bergens trail – history and nature in a unique combination.
