Kvarken
Natural World Heritage Site
The unique Kvarken Archipelago is Finland’s only Natural World Heritage Site on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2006. Together with Sweden’s High Coast, the Kvarken Archipelago is the best place in the world to experience and understand the land uplift phenomenon caused by the last Ice Age. During the Ice Age, the area was covered with ice, even three kilometers thick. The ice was pushing down the soil 800-1000 meters. When the ice disappeared about 10 000 years ago, land uplifting started. Because of the continuing land uplift, the landscape, nature and culture have been changing during thousands of years in an exceptional way. It is possible to see and experience the low moraine scenery by boat, which You can get from Merenkurkun Majatalo or by walking Bodvattnet – nature trail, enjoy the breathtaking view from the view tower Saltkaret or learn some more about the area and history with guided tours by boat, canoe or walking.
Svedjehamn has the ambience and charm of a fishing village in the the Kvarkurku archipelago. Traditional boathouses are part of the landscape and it also has the starting point of the Bodvattnet Nature Trail.
Guides
The landscape of Kvarken is changing all the time. The specialities are the De Geer moraines, rising from the sea and building lagoons behind. These are excellent spots for fish to spawn and the fish are attracting birds. Between the moraine formations are parched fields with extraordinary endemic flora to be found.
All of this is to be explored with guided tours in nature. World heritage guides and Kvarkenguides are found at www.merenkurkku.fi
Paddling
Paddling is an excellent way to explore the diverse nature of Kvarken. Maps and guided tours are found at www.visitvaasa.fi. Kayaks and canoes can be rented from Björkö entrepreneurs. Please do not hesitate to ask more from Camping-host Tapani or the hostess of Merenkurkun Majatalo Anne: Merenkurkun Majatalo.