Visit Närpes 2026, English

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Welcome to Närpes

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The 2026 Season - visitnarpes.fi

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Coastal, culinary and culturally rich

Experience Närpes with all your senses BE INSPIRED BY THE TRANQUILLITY OF THE ARCHIPELAGO, VIBRANT CULTURE AND ALL THE COLOURS OF NATURE. DISCOVER EXCURSION DESTINATIONS, SCENIC PLACES, FARM SHOPS FILLED WITH LOCAL PRODUCE AND HIKING TRAILS THAT INVITE YOU TO RELAX.

Discover the West Coast's Gem

Tourist information The square | Närpesvägen 16 In the summer, the tourist information office is located at the square in the middle of the town centre. Here you can find inspiration and tips on what to do in Närpes. During the rest of the year, you are welcome to visit Dynamo Närpes.

JUNE 8 - AUGUST 9

mon - fri 9:00 - 17:00 sat - sun 10:00 - 14:00 info@visitnarpes.fi www.visitnarpes.fi +358 (0)45 2760 740 Visit Närpes visitnarpes

Welcome to Närpes!

DEAR READER, In this brochure we have gathered our best tips for those who want to discover the pearl of the west coast – Närpes.

Here you will find scenic hiking trails, inviting beaches and a vibrant cultural life. You will also find a wide range of accommodation, restaurants and shops offering locally produced products and handicrafts. Don’t miss our popular events such as the Tomatkarnevalen and Närpes Mat & Mystik – two festivities offering both joy and culinary experiences.

Would you like to plan your trip in advance? Visit the website visitnarpes.fi – there you will find up-to-date information about events, attractions and tips for your stay.

A warm welcome to experience everything wonderful that Närpes has to offer!

Björn Häggblom Chairman, Visit Närpes Tourism Committee

Ask, cycle, discover – in summer the tourist

Information office can be found at the square Responsible publisher: Dynamo Närpes Graphic design and layout: Insight Press Point Print: KTMP Group Cover photos: Emma Rosengård, Inessa Witting and Flickorna Productions We reserve the right for any printing errors or changes that may have occurred after publication. Visit our website for the latest information.

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Scan the QR code to access our digital maps and newspapers! issuu.com/dynamonarpes

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DURING THE summer you can find the city’s tourist information at Närpes Square. Here visitors and locals meet to get tips on new excursion destinations and to find their own hidden gems among restaurants, attractions and activities.

From here you can also rent a bicycle to make your visit to Närpes even more memorable – the perfect way to explore the city and its surroundings. Feel the wind in your hair, enjoy the fresh air and let the landscape unfold around you.

With us you can also buy I love Närpes products as a souvenir from your trip, or simply sit down for a moment to chat and plan. The tourist information office is open for nine weeks during the summer – you are very welcome!

Närpes – the coastal city

Where the world meets Närpes is a town that has literally risen from the sea, shaped by centuries of land uplift. From being a traditional agricultural region, the town has grown into a modern and dynamic place where past and future meet in harmonious balance.

WITH ITS area of 978 km² and a coastline stretching over an impressive 700 km, Närpes offers both expansive archipelago views and a vibrant cultural scene.

Nearly 10,000 inhabitants call Närpes home, and the town continues to grow. What truly makes Närpes unique is its diversity. More than 20 languages are spoken here. In addition to Swedish and Finnish, you will often

hear Vietnamese, Bosnian and many other languages along the streets. This linguistic and cultural richness creates a welcoming atmosphere and makes Närpes an international and inclusive meeting place in the heart of the Ostrobothnian plains.

For those seeking both culture and nature, calm and liveliness, Närpes is well worth a visit. Would you like to plan your stay and

discover everything the city has to offer? At visitnarpes.fi you will find inspiration, an event calendar and tips on activities, accommodation, guided tours, shopping, outdoor recreation and much more. Närpes is a gem waiting to be experienced – and your journey can begin online. visitnarpes.fi

What would you like to do in Närpes today?

→ Read more on pp. 26-27

visitnarpes.fi/en/ narpes-guides

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Take a guided tour through Närpes!

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visitnarpes.fi/en/ see-do

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→ Read more on pp. 4-5

visitnarpes.fi/en/ evenemang

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Enjoy the day with the children!

→ Read more on pp. 6-7

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visitnarpes.fi/en/eat

Experience art, music, and culture!

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→ Read more on pp. 12-13

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Enjoy local flavors!

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An excursion with a picnic! → Read more on pp. 16-17

visitnarpes.fi/en/ see-do

Stay a little longer! → Read more on pp. 14-15

visitnarpes.fi/en/stay

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Salty splashes and sand between your toes In Närpes, the sea is never far away if you want to swim, build sandcastles or simply enjoy the calm of the waves.

Here you’ll find child-friendly beaches, relaxing picnic moments and coastal views. Fill your day with sunshine, laughter and salty splashes – summer in Närpes is easy to love.

And if the rain surprises you? Just swap the beach blanket for a warm meal at Seaside, where the view over the sea is just as beautiful in rain as in sunshine.

Fagerö Beach Björkgrundsvägen 1, Rangsby

Here you’ll find changing rooms, toilets and an outdoor shower. Next to the beach you’ll also find Restaurant Seaside, as well as a volleyball court, mini golf, a playground and rental of SUP boards.

Tjärlax Beach Grönnesvägen 219, Tjärlax

Here you’ll find a barbecue area, slide, swings, rebound wall, volleyball court, toilets and changing rooms.

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Read more about family activities on our website! visitnarpes.fi/en/see-do

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Charming town Arriving in Närpes means stepping into a place where sea, nature and culture come together naturally. Here you’ll find a relaxed smalltown atmosphere, but also plenty of activities and experiences for the whole family. Närpes offers both adventure and tranquillity, perfect for a holiday filled with variety.

Cornelia

Beach hangout

Sculpture trail

THE PROXIMITY to the sea makes the beaches inviting for swimming, play and fishing during the warm summer days. A popular destination is Fagerö, where beach life can be combined with activities and good food. Here you can play mini golf, challenge each other in beach volleyball or rent SUP boards for a little extra excitement. Restaurant Seaside serves delicious food for both children and adults, and the large ice creams are hard to resist. You’ll also find “Stjärishoppen,” where you can buy handicrafts and local products as souvenirs.

If you want to experience animals, nature and the sea, Strandhem is a place the children won’t soon forget. Here you can meet Johanna the donkey and many other animals such as sheep, pigs, turkeys and rabbits. For those who want to join the fun, feeding time is always a highlight. Strandhem also offers fishing, canoeing, a playground and various games. When it’s time for a break, the whole family can sit down for a homemade lunch or coffee with freshly baked pastries, and for a moment of relaxation there are comfortable hammocks waiting in the shade.

In the centre of Närpes you’ll find Cornelia, a charming combination of shop and café where children can enjoy pedal cars, croquet or stilts in the cosy garden. If the weather gets chilly, there’s a retro caravan and an old bus transformed into a café – perfect for a unique snack break. Cornelia also offers culture and excitement – you can walk the mystique trail, answer questions and learn more about local folklore. Hungry guests can enjoy waffles, both sweet and savoury, as well as ice cream made in Närpes. Those curious about the town’s history can also visit the museum next

to Cornelia and get a feel for what life used to be like.

For families who enjoy movement and adventure, Vargberget is a must. Here you’ll find scenic hiking trails suitable for young children as well as longer excursions, a popular disc golf course and many other fun activities for all ages. In winter the area transforms into a centre for skiing and sledding, while summer offers green trails and fresh air. The inviting barbecue areas are especially appreciated, perfect for gathering around the fire after a day outdoors. For even more variety, you can visit the motor skills park in Norrnäs, where both children and adults can test balance, strength and coordination.

Närpes also offers unique cultural experiences in the green outdoors. At the Öjskogsparken open-air museum, a whimsical sculpture trail winds through the forest, where artworks created by local artists appear along the path. The 500-metre walk is an experience appreciated by both children and adults, adding a special touch to a day full of adventure.

Vargberget

Fagerö beach

Whether you choose to spend your time by the sea, in nature or exploring the town’s cosy destinations, Närpes is a place that makes it easy to create memorable days for the whole family. For more tips on activities, events and excursions, visit our website visitnarpes.fi. visitnarpes.fi Strandhem

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Enriching for the mind

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Cultural experiences you won’t find

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Närpes is alive with creativity and tradition. Here, art, music, theatre and dance come together in a cultural life that inspires both visitors and locals.

FROM SUMMER theatre on the unique rotating grandstand to colourful concerts with Närpes school brass band and exhibitions by local artists – the culture in Närpes is as vibrant as the town itself. The town has a strong community spirit and a passion for art, music and theatre – something that is visible all year round.

Those who are curious about visual art can visit the town’s art and photography clubs, where local talents create and display their work. Many of the exhibitions draw inspiration from Närpes’ rich history and scenic surroundings, and several galleries and farm shops gladly open their doors to visitors.

One of the town’s cultural prides is Närpes Theatre, well known far beyond the region.

Every summer they present performances in the distinctive Närpes dialect, performed on the unique rotating grandstand that allows the audience to follow the story through different scenes and environments. A theatre experience unlike any other – one you shouldn’t miss.

Närpes is also known for its music in the Närpes dialect. Many artists from the area embrace the dialect’s unique expression and use it in their songs, ranging from ballads and rock to modern rap and heavy metal. In this way, the music becomes both a way to preserve the unique dialect and to create something new.

Music also has a natural place in Närpes.

Närpes school brass band, together with Närpes Drill, is another cultural pride. They are well known both nationally and internationally for their colourful and energetic performances. They always offer an experience that spreads joy and energy, whether performing at home or on tour. Dance also plays a strong role in the town’s cultural life, with many children and young people expressing their creativity on stage.

Whether you’re drawn to art exhibitions, theatre experiences, or musical performances, there’s always something to discover. Närpes offers a vibrant cultural scene that leaves a lasting impression – and places where you can find inspiration and soak in the local culture.

Read more about the Närpes school brass band and Närpes Theatre on our website. visitnarpes.fi

The art hall

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Welcome to

Stone crafts by

In Nämpnäs you’ll find

Berit ’s little gallery

Johnny Juthman

Mia’s Art Salon

BERIT LILLÅS runs the gallery located in Gottböle, Norrvägen 54. Here you’ll find paintings and sewn items such as bags and children’s clothing. Open Thursdays 18.00–20.30, Saturdays 11.00–14.00 or by appointment.

AT NYMOSSVÄGEN 31 in Övermark, you’ll find Johnny Juthman’s stone crafts – unique bracelets, necklaces, bowls, earrings, candle holders and more, all handmade in stone.

Call to book a visit:

MIA GULL’S art salon, located in a converted henhouse, offers an artistic experience without hens but with artworks and charming rabbits. Welcome to discover this artistic oasis at Österfjärdsvägen 82. Please call ahead.

Tel: +358 50 363 4751

Tel: +358 50 365 8121

Tel: +358 40 879 7586

Enjoy the magic of film at

Handmade ceramics at

Summer theatre at

Bio Bio Showtime

Kajsa’s Art

Närpes Theatre

IN FRANS Henriksson Hall on Närpesvägen 16, films are shown weekly – a cosy meeting place for all film lovers. Enjoy great stories on the big screen in the heart of Närpes. Current repertoire can be found on the website:

KAJSA LASSANDER’S ceramics workshop is located in Finby at Stationsvägen 95b. Visits by appointment.

EXPERIENCE THE excitement of Närpes Theatre, where a play is performed every summer in the Närpes dialect. The audience sits on the unique rotating grandstand in Öjskogsparken.

Find more information and tickets at:

visitnarpes.fi/en/evenemang

The Culture Hall

@kajsaskonst18 Kajsas konst Tel: +358 40 728 7958

Experience artwork by

Frans Henriksson Hall Karin Lipkin-Forsén FRANS HENRIKSSON Hall, a cultural venue next to the Art Hall in the Mittistan building on Närpesvägen 16, hosts theatre, concerts, film screenings and more. Explore current programmes and events at: visitnarpes.fi

HER STUDIO is beautifully located by the old stone bridge crossing the Närpes river. Here you can see paintings in different techniques as well as graphic art. Visits by appointment.

Tel: +358 40 707 2871 @artbytheoldbridge

narpesteater.fi

Exhibitions at the

Soldier’s Cottage THE SOLDIER’S Cottage at Pörtom local heritage museum is now an inspiring exhibition venue hosting exciting exhibitions every summer. More information: portom.hembygd.fi/musieomradet/ soldattorpet/

Summer exhibitions at

In Mittistan you’ll find

In the Town Hall you’ll find

Galleri Granliden

The art hall

The city library

AT THE address Östra Linjen 705 in Yttermark, Galleri Granliden welcomes visitors during the summer months. For more information, visit the gallery’s Facebook page:

WITH MONTHLY exhibitions, the hall at Närpesvägen 16 attracts both locals and visitors. Open 08.00–20.00, Mon–Sat. Closed Sundays. Information on current exhibitions can be found at:

THE LIBRARY, located at Kyrkvägen 2, offers not only a rich collection of books but also access to various exhibitions. Exhibitions are open according to the reading room hours, which can be found at:

Galleri Granliden Tel: +46 73 086 1349 gronlund16@gmail.com

Närpes Theatre

visitnarpes.fi

Närpes school brass band

fredrika.finna.fi

Kajsa’s Art

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Why life in

Närpes is so good Visiting Närpes gives you a glimpse of the beauty and vibrancy that characterise our region – from the clean nature to the warm sense of community. But for those who stay a little longer, something even more valuable appears: the opportunity to live a good life here.

IT IS the combination of security, balance and opportunities that makes Närpes a place where many choose to settle down and build their future. Närpes is known for its strong entrepreneurial spirit. Here, small-town safety meets a business environment that offers unique possibilities. With over 1,400 companies – from greenhouse production and food processing to industry, technology and service sectors – there are many paths to choose from. Whether you want to build a career as a specialist, work in production or develop

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your own ideas as an entrepreneur, the opportunities are here. Working life is shaped by innovation, cooperation and a culture where the balance between work and private life is highly valued.

always close by, offering both tranquillity and opportunities for an active leisure time.

Children grow up in a safe environment where cycling to school or playing freely outdoors is common. At the same time, the town has a rich community and cultural life that creates a sense of belonging for both young and old. The sea, forests and clean nature are

Would you like to know more about what it’s like to live in Närpes? Visit workinnarpes.com for inspiration, stories and practical information.

Närpes is not just a place to work – it is a place to live, grow and thrive.

workinnarpes.com

Live like a local In Närpes, the good life goes hand in hand with nature, safety, community and opportunities. Here, there is space to feel good, grow and feel at home.

Enjoy nature and the sea Experience the local community Slow down to the rhythm of small-town life Feel everyday safety Let children grow up with freedom Find fresh and local produce

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Meeting Point Närpes: celebration, culture and

Community all year round In Närpes there is always something to experience, all year long. The town offers a wonderful mix of events, markets and culture that create lifelong memories and a sense of togetherness that is hard to find elsewhere.

When winter arrives, Närpes embraces Christmas. Charming Christmas markets spread warmth through the villages, where the scent of mulled wine blends with Christmas music and the tables are filled with handicrafts and unique gifts. It’s the perfect place to find special Christmas presents while also feeling the festive calm settle in.

In the event calendar you’ll find everything going on in Närpes – all year round.

All year round, Frans Henriksson Hall serves as the cultural heart of the town. Concerts, theatre, stand-up, film screenings and much more take place here, ensuring that there is always something to discover – in every season.

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Närpes is a place where the celebration never ends and where each season has its own charm. Here, tradition, community and joy come together in everything from lively summer festivals and dance evenings to cosy Christmas markets and grand cultural experiences. Welcome to experience Närpes – a town that lives and celebrates all year round. At visitnarpes.fi you will find an event calendar with all activities and happenings gathered in one place – making it easy to plan your visit!

Scan the QR code to open the event calendar! visitnarpes.fi/en/evenemang

visitnarpes.fi

Tomatkarnevalen

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Culture, cinema, markets or art exhibitions?

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Culture has a natural place in Närpes, and no visit is complete without seeing a performance at Närpes Theatre in Öjskogsparken. Here, summer plays are performed in the authentic Närpes dialect, and with the theatre’s unique rotating grandstand, the audience is taken on an unforgettable journey through scenes and environments that unfold in the middle of the beautiful natural surroundings. In the summer of 2026, the play “Maskinisterna” (The Machinists) will be performed, suitable for everyone but especially for those interested in history and engines.

What’s happening in Närpes?

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Summer in Närpes brings many other highlights as well. An evening at Fagerö Folk Park is an experience appreciated by both young and old. Here people dance under the stars, enjoy the music and the warm evening air – and many have found both friendship and love right here. When summer draws to a close, people gather in Fagerö once again, this time for the big flea market where treasure hunting and market spirit attract visitors from near and far.

When autumn arrives, the town offers another gem: Närpes Mat & Mystik. For a few days in September, the town is filled with local delicacies, handicrafts and cultural experiences.

Here you can taste homemade dishes, meet local producers, enjoy music and even see a traditional Asian dragon dance. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming and reflects the diversity and creativity that characterise the entire town.

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EVERY JULY, Närpes transforms into a vibrant festival ground when Tomatkarnevalen fills the streets with joy and energy. Since its start in 1982, it has grown into the absolute highlight of the year. During carnival week you can experience everything from an art carnival and pride parade to concerts and lively markets. When the weekend arrives, everything culminates in a grand celebration where music fills the air, market stalls tempt visitors and the atmosphere reaches its peak. And best of all: the daytime programme is completely free.

Närpes Mat & Mystik

Tomatkarnevalen

Folk Park Dancing

Vargberget

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From farm to table

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Taste Närpes – local love

In Närpes, you don’t just eat well – you experience the flavour of an entire region. Here, on the fertile plains of Ostrobothnia, ingredients are grown and refined with pride and care. The distance between producer and plate is short – and you can taste it in both flavour and quality.

AS A visitor, you come close to both the food and the people behind it. Stroll through the many farm shops where the shelves are filled with sun-ripened tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, peppers and other vegetables, as well as fruit, fresh fish, turkey, lamb and small-scale delicacies such as ice cream, lemonade and handicrafts. Every product carries a piece of Närpes – genuine, fresh and full of passion.

Närpes is Finland’s number one greenhouse city and known as the home of the tomato. The story began more than a hundred years ago when Valdemar and Anna Mattfolk brought a few tomato seeds back from America. Today, Närpes produces 60% of Finland’s tomatoes and half of its cucumbers – a pride reflected in both its food culture and way of

life. Here, the tomato gets to show its versatility in creative ways: why not try a refreshing tomato ice cream from Närpes Glassfabrik or tomato lemonade from Öfvermark Läskedryck?

For those seeking a unique experience, a visit to Linds Kök is highly recommended – a restaurant located in the middle of a greenhouse. Here you are surrounded by palm trees, herbs and lime trees while enjoying a menu where everything grown on site is used in the kitchen. Dare to surprise your taste buds with, for example, a cucumber panna cotta for dessert – an experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

Another must-try for all visitors is the popular Närpes lunches. The town’s restaurants

offer generous buffets daily, where local ingredients always play the leading role. These flavourful meals not only celebrate the food culture but also the sense of togetherness around the table.

And the food is only part of the experience.

For those interested in gardening, Närpes offers garden centres with colourful plants all year round. Whether you shop at a farm shop, enjoy a buffet lunch or sit down for dinner in town, you will feel the same thing: in Närpes, good taste lives here.

At visitnarpes.fi you’ll find up-to-date lunch menus with what is offered each day – perfect when you want to plan your meal break!

Today’s tastiest break Have you tried the famous Närpes lunches?

Every day, flavorful buffets are served here.

Linds Kök

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Find this week’s lunch menus on our website! visitnarpes.fi/en/lunch

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Hotel Red & Green

Övfermark Läskedryck

This is the taste of Närpes Here you’ll find everything from cosy farm shops to restaurants that make the most of local ingredients. Taste Närpes!

Places to eat Baba Food Nybrovägen 10, Närpes.

Bistro Café & Catering Algotsvägen 2, Närpes. bistrocafe.fi Citygrillen Torget i centrum, Närpes.

Citygrillen, Närpes Elin & Eddies grill Vasavägen 1656, Övermark.

Tel: +358 40 416 8772 Hotel Red & Green Närpesvägen 16, Närpes. hotelredgreen.fi Kotipizza Kambvägen 2, Närpes. kotipizza.fi Matstugan

Vegetables

Fruits & berries

Bigro Different varieties of tomatoes. The kiosk is open 24/7 year-round. Gottbölevägen 309.

Anders & Niklas Lång Strawberries, raspberries, cloudberries, blueberries, juice, and garden peas. The farm shop is open Mon-Sat 9-19, Sun 10-18 from end of June-mid-August. Österlandsvägen 674.

C-J Malm Peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes, devil's jam, cucumbersalad and corn. The kiosk is open 24/7 May-October. Bodbackvägen 116.

Granös Grönsaker Tomatoes, specialty tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, salad and chili. The farm shop is open 24/7 May-November. Tuvängsvägen 94.

SH Grönsaker Open 24/7. Tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers. Edsbackvägen 1.

Skogman Peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers. The kiosk is open 24/7 end of April-October.

Kristinestadsvägen 360.

Strands Gårdsbod Tomatoes, specialty tomatoes, peppers, chili, and cucumbers. The kiosk is open 24/7, yearround. Skrattnäsvägen 926.

Närpes Service Center.

Kyrkvägen 6, entry G Oneil's Kitchen Simhallsvägen 1, Närpes. oneils.fi Pizzeria Casa Närpesvägen 34, Närpes. pizzeriacasa.fi Prego Närpesvägen 10, Närpes. restoprego.fi Pörteborg Velkmossvägen 1, Pörtom.

Neste Pörteborg Restaurang Seaside Björkgrundsvägen 1, Rangsby. fagero.fi

Restaurants available by booking Linds Kök Bäcklidvägen 476, Bäckliden. lindskok.fi Restaurang FMC Kristinestadsvägen 884, Böle. rentachef.fi

Lamb & mutton Sjögårds lamm Organic sheep farm. Open Wednesdays 15-18.

Skrattnäsvägen 1244.

Cafés Cornelia Vasavägen 10, Närpes. cornelia.fi Kaffestugan At the square, Närpes.

Kaffestugan Närpes Bageri Närpesvägen 35, Närpes. narpesbageri.fi Sommar på Strandhem Summer café. Äggrundsvägen 272, Nämpnäs.

Sommar på Strandhem

Hammars Hallon Strawberries, raspberries, juice, and ice cream.

The kiosk is open 24/7 mid-May-September.

Strandgärdståget 31.

Thomasfolk trädgårdsodling Strawberries. The kiosk is open 24/7 May-June and August-September. Bäcklidvägen 66.

Fresh eggs Antas Ägg Ab Fresh eggs. Open 24/7, Vasavägen 609.

Haga Gårdspackeri Fresh eggs. Open 8-21 every day.

Vargholmsvägen 144.

Kvanfors Gård Free-range eggs. Self-service. Österlandsvägen 137.

Vikstrands Hönseri Fresh eggs and strawberries (seasonal).

Open 24/7 year-round. Börskärsvägen 45.

Ice cream Glasstrutin At the square, Närpes.

Glasstrutin Närpes Glassfabrik Artisan ice cream. The kiosk is open 24/7, year-round. Also available in local stores.

Vasavägen 137.

Fish products Närpes Fiskdelikatesser Fresh, smoked, and cured fish. Norrnäsvägen 466. Contact in advance!

Tel: +358 45 205 0319 Polarfilé Fresh fish and fish products. The store is open Thu-Fri 10-18. Nämpnäsvägen 142.

Turkey Hemmanet Turkey. Bengtsvägen 176. Contact us in Tel: +358 40 547 6142 advance!

Other Stjäriboden in Fagerö Local crafts, fresh eggs, vegetables & berries (seasonal), fish & homemade bread, plus a book swap corner. Open 24/7 June-August, closed on dance nights at the pavilion.

Björkgrundsvägen 1. Öfvermark läskedryck Craft lemonade, café. The kiosk is open 24/7, year-round. Vasavägen 1656.

Tel: +358 40 416 8772 Övermark Köttrökeri Contact in advance. Källmossvägen 551.

Tel: +358 50 518 5899

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City Loginn

Who are you when you travel?

Every trip is unique – and so is the way you want to stay.

Choose what best matches your style, your mood or your dream holiday!

The life-enjoyer who wants everything within reach Stay here: Hotel Red & Green

The summer city explorer Stay here: YA’s Summer Hotel

The history buff with an eye for detail Stay here: City Loginn

The nature romantic seeking rural tranquillity Stay here: Övermark B & B

The ocean lover who wants to wake up to the sound of waves Stay here: Strandkulla Cottages

The freedom seeker on four wheels Stay here: Park your motorhome at Fagerö

The local-minded traveller who wants to live like a resident of Närpes Stay here: Apartment or cottage via Airbnb

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Read more about accommodation options on our website! visitnarpes.fi/en/stay

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Sleep well in Närpes – accommodation

With charm and variety

After a day filled with fresh air, sea views and wonderful experiences, it’s nice to relax and unwind. In Närpes you’ll find accommodation for everyone – from those who want central comfort to those seeking a peaceful atmosphere by the sea. Here you can slow down, sleep well and wake up ready for new adventures.

Övermark B & B

City Loginn

Hotel Red & Green Övermark B & B

Hotel Red & Green

IN THE heart of the town, Hotel Red & Green awaits in the well-known Mittistan building.

Here you stay comfortably with everything close at hand: start the evening with a delicious dinner in the hotel restaurant, continue with a movie at the cinema or an art exhibition – all under the same roof. A perfect choice if you want to combine comfort with experiences just around the corner. During summer, YA’s Summer Hotel also opens – an affordable and central option that makes it easy to enjoy the town’s events and summer evenings. Here you stay simply and comfortably, within walking distance of everything that is happening.

If you want to sleep in a room with history, City Loginn is the place – located in the former tax office. Here you can fall asleep in what once was the tax master’s office! A charming and unique accommodation right in the centre of Närpes. For those longing for rural idyll,

Övermark Bed & Breakfast is located in a historic building that once served as a hospital.

Here you stay surrounded by open fields and beautiful nature, perfect if you want peace and quiet just outside the town centre.

If you dream of waking up to the sound of the sea, Strandkulla Cottages is the obvious choice. Cosy cottages are available for rent year-round – a place where you can relax, breathe the fresh sea air and let the tranquillity of nature take over. Many also choose to stop with their camper van at Fagerö, where you can sleep close to the sea and enjoy the scent of salt and seaweed before new adventures begin. For a more personal stay, you can choose to rent an apartment in the centre or book a private summer cottage via Airbnb.

This way, you get the chance to live like the locals – with privacy, freedom and proximity to the town’s attractions.

No matter where you choose to stay in Närpes – at a hotel, in a cosy cottage by the sea or in a homely apartment – a good night’s sleep awaits, along with the chance to wake up refreshed and ready to discover all the beauty the town has to offer. Here, even the night becomes part of the journey. More information about accommodation can be found at visitnarpes.fi. visitnarpes.fi hotelredgreen.fi yrkesakademin.fi/tjanster/sommarhotell cityloginn.fi strandkulla.com airbnb.com overmarkbnb.fi

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Discover outdoor life in Närpes – adventure and

Relaxation in nature

Närpes is a destination for everyone who loves to move and experience nature up close. Whether you seek fast-paced activities or calm moments in the green, you will find plenty of opportunities here.

FOR THOSE who enjoy hiking, there are many scenic trails throughout the municipality. A visit to Fagerö also offers family-friendly activities such as mini golf, SUP boards and beach life. In Norrnäs, you’ll find a well-equipped outdoor gym and the popular motor skills park, where both children and adults can test balance, strength and agility – perfect for an active day together.

Nature lovers should not miss an excursion to Hinjärv Lake and Risnäs Lake. Hinjärv is the largest natural lake in Ostrobothnia, and at Bodbacka by Hinjärv you’ll find a swimming spot, a grill hut and a playground for children.

At Risnäs you can take a rowing trip, hike around the lake or finish the day at the grill area while enjoying the tranquillity. Another must-visit destination is Vargberget, offering adventure year-round. Here you’ll find trails of various lengths for both hiking and skiing, a disc golf course, a roller-skiing area and the popular exercise staircase. In winter, the

sledding hill and biathlon arena attract visitors, while the sauna, grill areas and lake swimming complete the experience – always with beautiful nature as your backdrop.

When you want to combine nature and culture, the Sculpture Trail in Öjskogsparken is a magical experience. Along the 500-metre path in the forest, you’ll encounter imaginative artworks created by local artists – an enchanting walk suitable for both children and adults. Another gem is Backfors, where the rapids roar and the surroundings invite picnics, photography and peaceful moments.

Here you experience nature’s power up close in an environment that is beautiful all year round.

Would you like to enjoy a walk right in the town centre? Follow the Cherry Trail along the Närpes River, an idyllic hiking path winding through the town. Here you can enjoy both nature’s calm and the town’s vibrant

life – perfect for a relaxing moment after shopping or sightseeing. For those seeking more action, the town centre also offers running tracks, football fields, an ice rink and tennis courts. Närpes Kraft, the town’s proud sports club, arranges competitions in football, ice hockey, skiing and athletics. As a visitor, you are warmly welcome to cheer from the sidelines or simply enjoy the lively sports atmosphere.

In Närpes, it’s easy to combine activity and relaxation. Fresh air, sparkling water, green forests and opportunities for movement at all ages await you. Whether you want to hike, paddle, cycle, swim or ski, you will find your place in the Ostrobothnian nature – and perhaps discover a new favourite trail along the way. Hiking trails and other nature experiences can be found on our website. visitnarpes.fi

The Sculpture Trail

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Follow the trails to Närpes’ most beautiful places Set out for a hike and experience the beautiful nature of Närpes. Perfect for both a relaxing walk or a more challenging adventure.

Erklass Trail 2 km round trip Start from the cemetery in Pörtom, Skolvägen 73.

= Barbecue area

= Water

= Local history

= View

Raineåsen Hiking Trail

Vargberget Nature Trail

1,5 km round trip Start from the hunting cabin at Raineås forest road in Pörtom. Here you will also find the ancient graves of Störstenrösbäck.

5 km + 17,8 km Here you’ll find beautiful nature and hiking routes of varying lengths. Trails are marked with yellow signs. The area also has ski tracks, a biathlon arena, an exercise staircase, a paved roller-skiing area and a grill hut. Vargberget 148.

Fållbäck Trail 6,5 km Start from Högåsen sports cottage in Övermark. Sauna and ice bath barrel are available – contact in advance if you are interested.

Tel: +358 50 547 5368

Mossberget Nature Trails 2,4 km + 3 km The northern trail starts from Böle Sand Road and the southern trail from Moss Road. Maps are available outside the Böle youth hall.

Risnäs Lake Trail 2 km Start from the parking area at Heide forest road. A grill hut and rowing boat are available for those who want to explore the lake.

Velkmossa Hiking Trail 9 km Start from Velkmossa community house. The trail is marked with yellow signs. Along the route you’ll find ancient graves, old dwelling sites and a bird tower.

The Sculpture Trail 0,5 km Start from the parking area next to scenic Öjskogsparken. The path is lined with imaginative sculptures created by local artists – a perfect combination of art and nature.

Prästövägen 30.

Öjskogs Trail 2,5 km Start from the parking area next to scenic Öjskogsparken, Prästövägen 30.

Tjärlax Hiking Trail Nämpnäs Hiking Trails 50 km Together, the Nämpnäs trails cover 50 km.

In addition to exercise, you also experience local history at seven historically significant sites. Maps are available at the former Gullans Närköp, Nämpnäsvägen 109.

4,1 km + 1,7 km Start from Tjärlax Cottage Village. Along the trail you’ll encounter nature that is unusual for the region, as well as the oldest tree in Närpes.

Grönnesvägen 205.

Vargberget

Valsberget Hiking Trail The Cherry Trail 400 m The approximately 400-metre-long path follows the Närpes River between Nybro and Vassbro. Along the trail you’ll find a grill area, resting places, an amphitheatre, granite steps and a charming granite bridge.

3 km Along the route, you’ll see a cave, devil’s fields and ancient remains. There is also a viewpoint with a grill area where you can enjoy views over Övermark. The trail starts at the heritage museum or Bergsvägen 34. Maps are available at both locations, but parking is more convenient at the heritage museum.

Erklass Trail

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City Loginn

Choose your meeting style Who says meetings belong only in conference rooms?

In Närpes, you can meet in a greenhouse, by the sea or in a rustic barn. Add something unique – and watch ideas flourish.

Meetings with city pulse: Frans Henriksson Hall Hotel Red & Green City Loginn

Meetings with rural charm: Frank Mangs Center Övermark Bed & Breakfast

Meetings with a personal touch: Cornelia Greenhouse Sauna

Meetings with the sound of the sea: Restaurant Seaside

REATE ENGA GE EC AR

Meetings with meaning

USS FOCUS ISC N

RK DEVELOP S WO H ET

All year round

GATHER INS AN PI R PL

ED

A place for meetings

Are you looking for a meeting venue that combines inspiration, tranquillity and unique surroundings? Then Närpes is the natural choice. Here, ideas and people come together in spaces suited for everything from small, intimate gatherings to large conferences – always with nature, culture and hospitality as a backdrop.

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Hotel Red & Green

Seaside

Cornelia

IN THE Mittistan building in the town centre, you’ll find Frans Henriksson Hall, which accommodates up to 200 people and can easily be divided into smaller rooms. In the same building is Hotel Red & Green, offering comfortable accommodation and smaller meeting rooms for groups wishing to combine work with experiences. For something truly special, smaller groups can book the charming greenhouse sauna, or during summer gather in “Nötset” at the lifestyle shop Cornelia – a cosy spot with a personal touch.

For larger conferences, the Frank Mangs Center is an ideal venue. Here there is space for 400 people, a rustic dining hall in a converted barn for up to 110 guests, as well as smaller meeting rooms in the Frank Mangs

homestead – a traditional Ostrobothnian farmhouse. On the grounds you can also learn about the preacher Frank Mangs, whose influence reached far beyond Finland. If you prefer a meeting venue with extra charm, Övermark Bed & Breakfast offers a unique setting in a former hospital, surrounded by open farmland. For a more central stay, City Loginn – located in the former tax office – offers modern comfort with historic character.

For those who want to combine meetings with the calm of the sea, Restaurant Seaside in Fagerö is the perfect choice. Meeting facilities are available year-round, and in summer breaks can include everything from mini golf to a stroll along the beach – the perfect blend of work and relaxation.

Whether you’re planning a small workshop, a large conference or a gathering in a more relaxed environment, Närpes offers everything you need to make your stay both inspiring and memorable. Here, work, nature and culture meet – and ideas become reality. visitnarpes.fi overmarkbnb.fi hotelredgreen.fi cornelia.fi fagero.fi frankmangscenter.fi cityloginn.fi kasvihuonesauna

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Here, the sea has shaped the

Landscape and the stories Närpes offers a coastline stretching over 700 kilometres – a place where the sea has shaped both nature and people for centuries. Here, the horizon opens wide, and every bay, island and rocky shore carries its own story.

WHAT IS today fertile fields and dense forests was once the bottom of the sea. The land uplift, which continues at more than eight millimetres per year, has fascinated people through the ages. Long ago, people believed the water was disappearing, but in reality it was the land rising and reshaping the coastline piece by piece. Even today, you can follow this fascinating process and see how the landscape continues to transform.

One of the coast’s most beloved gems is Gåshällan, a rocky island where sea and sky meet. Here you’ll find a guest harbour, charming fishermen’s huts, a grill house, a sauna and even a small playhouse for children. The eastern side offers sheltered harbour spots,

while the western side presents dramatic cliffs shaped by the forces of the sea. Gåshällan also has a nature station – a renovated former coast guard station where groups can stay overnight.

If you want to enjoy sea views from the mainland, Blaxnäs – Finland’s westernmost point on the mainland – is a must. Here, land and sea meet in dramatic harmony. From the fishing harbour in Nämpnäs, you can watch the boats return with the day’s catch – a living reminder of the sea’s importance for the region.

The coast of Nämpnäs also carries dramatic stories from history. During the Second World

War, the sea played a central role in the secret intelligence operation Stella Polaris, during which sensitive material was smuggled across the sea to Sweden. A memorial in Nämpnäs honours the operation, and in the Stella Polaris Museum in Öjskogsparken you can explore this fascinating part of history.

The Närpes coast is more than nature – it is a meeting between past and present, between drama and tranquillity. Here you can feel the power of the sea, discover the stories of the people who lived here, and experience a place where the horizon always invites new discoveries. visitnarpes.fi

Strandhem

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Norrnäs

Fagerö

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Join us on a journey through

Time and history Welcome to the scenic Öjskogsparken, where history comes alive and you can step straight into life on a traditional Ostrobothnian farm. Here, more than 20 historical buildings await, together telling the story of everyday life in the past – from farming and trade to medicine and secret intelligence operations.

ONE OF Öjskogsparken’s treasures is the well-preserved Bengtsgården from the 18th century, where every room is arranged as if the family had just stepped outside for a moment. At Haga’s country store, an authentic 19th-century shop, you can see how people once bought everything from fabric and tools to sweets from a charming candy dispenser. On the shelves you’ll also find old ration cards that recall the hardships of wartime.

Another fascinating stop is the fully equipped museum pharmacy, complete with a laboratory where plants were once dried to become medicine – a unique insight into medical practices of the past.

Those interested in history should not miss the Stella Polaris Museum, which tells the story of the secret intelligence operation from 1944. When Finland signed the armistice with the Soviet Union, large quantities of intelligence material and personnel were smuggled across the sea to Sweden – a dra-

matic and decisive event that left a deep mark on history.

Just a stone’s throw away stands Närpes Church, whose oldest parts date back to the 1400s. Here you will also find the distinctive church stables – long rows of small red houses with shingled roofs where farm families once kept their horses during church services.

These unique buildings, once the pride of every farm, are still lovingly maintained today. During summer evenings, Öjskogsparken comes to life when Närpes Theatre performs its much-appreciated summer plays on the unique rotating grandstand – a theatre experience, in the Närpes dialect, that you won’t find anywhere else.

If you want to dive even deeper into local history, there are several local heritage museums to explore. In Övermark, you can learn about the story of Närpes’ first post station, while Pörtom houses a special collection from the historic Berga Glassworks, which

operated for nearly 100 years from the late 1700s. Both Övermark and Pörtom also have beautiful churches worth visiting.

You can also visit the lifestyle shop Cornelia, where a privately owned museum is open to all. A festive highlight is Folk Costume Day, celebrated here in August – a colourful tribute to tradition and culture.

In Närpes, history meets you everywhere – in buildings, objects, stories and, above all, in the people’s proud care for their cultural heritage. Here awaits a journey through time. visitnarpes.fi ojskogsparken.fi narpesteater.fi narpesforsamling.fi cornelia.fi overmark.hembygd.fi portom.hembygd.fi

Haga’s country store

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Öjskogsparken

Stella Polaris Museum

Närpes Church

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Shop 'til you drop

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FIND TR EA T

DISCOVE TRY R

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That little extra

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Small-town charm with

EK EXPL OR P PE E

Hotel Red & Green

Närpes offers a shopping experience where personal encounters and warm small-town atmosphere make every purchase feel a little more special. Here you can combine a relaxing day among shops, farm shops and flea markets with cosy coffee breaks and an atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.

IN THE town centre and in the shopping area at Högbacken, you’ll find a wide selection to suit all tastes. Whether you’re looking for something unique to take home or simply want to stroll among shop windows and local life, there is plenty to discover.

The shops offer everything from health products and electronics to fashion, furniture, handicrafts and accessories. There is also a charming local bookstore and several specialty shops where quality and personal service are key.

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Be sure to visit some of the many farm shops around Närpes as well. Here you’ll find fresh vegetables – especially the famous Närpes tomatoes – as well as meat, fish, lemonade, ice cream, jams and other delicacies. For those who love flea-market treasures, there is also a lot to explore in Närpes. Visit the town’s flea-market shops and make great finds among antiques, retro items and curiosities.

Between shopping stops you can relax at a café and enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious pastry – the perfect moment to take in your

impressions and soak in the friendly atmosphere that is so characteristic of Närpes.

Here you’ll find small-town charm and thoughtfulness, combined with a surprisingly wide range. Whether you’re looking for everyday essentials, local products or a unique gift to bring home, shopping in Närpes is always a joyful experience.

Our shopping and activity map is available at the Tourist Information!

visitnarpes.fi

The flea market lover on a treasure hunt Love finding bargains? In Närpes there are several flea markets where antiques, retro items and unexpected treasures are waiting.

Perfect for those who enjoy discovering unique pieces – and going home with something no one else has.

Star of hope starofhope.fi

Red Cross FRK Närpes Loppis

Saga by Carola Saga by Carola - second hand shop

Anna-Lenas Kuriosa Anna-Lenas Kuriosa

More flea markets to explore In addition to the year-round shops, there are also many seasonal flea markets around Närpes. Read more at visitnarpes.fi.

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LivsVinn

När-Bok

Scan the QR code for our digital shopping and activity map! issuu.com/dynamonarpes

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Guided tours shaped around you The guides always tailor the tour to your interests. Are you travelling alone, with family or in a larger group?

No matter who you come with, a personal and memorable experience awaits – one that lets you get to know Närpes in depth.

You can also customise an experience entirely based on your own interests. Let our guides show you Närpes in a way you will never forget.

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Book your guide through our website! visitnarpes.fi/en/ narpes-guides

Discover Närpes with our guides – the stories that

Bring your journey to life Experience Närpes for real and join our passionate guides, who with warmth and knowledge take you behind the scenes of the small town’s history and culture. Here, you don’t just see the places – you hear the stories that make them come alive.

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Choose your guided experience Here you’ll find guided tours for all interests – from history and culture to nature and local gems. Choose your favourite from the list below, or ask the guides about other tours based on your own preferences.

Art tour in Närpes

Sea, forest and small-town charm

Discover Närpes town centre

Join an art tour in Närpes and discover creative environments, exciting artworks and inspiring stories.

We drive along Road 67, where the road embankments offer beautiful views over the water at Hundholmen.

Discover Närpes town centre on a one-hour tour (or longer if you wish).

→ Read more about the tour at:

→ Read more about the tour at:

Rising lands and secret intelligence

A literary journey through Närpes

From past to present in Pörtom

Learn more about the fascinating story of Stella Polaris, the top-secret intelligence operation during the Continuation War.

Explore literary history in Närpes through a tour that takes you to places connected to local writers.

A perfect tour for anyone wanting to dive deeper into Närpes’ literary heritage.

We visit Småstenrösback with a Bronze Age grave, followed by Pörtom local heritage museum where the historic glass exhibition from Berga Glassworks is displayed. The tour ends in Pörtom Church Village.

visitnarpes.fi/en/ rising-lands-and-secret-intelligencestories-shaped-coast-narpes

→ Read more about the tour at:

→ Read more about the tour at:

Enterprising Närpes

Greenhouse tour

Discover Pörtom on foot

→ Read more about the tour at:

visitnarpes.fi/en/art-tour

→ Read more about the tour at:

Närpes is known for its entrepreneurial spirit. Discover the industrial side of Närpes with a tour that introduces you to some of the town’s most notable companies. → Read more about the tour at:

visitnarpes.fi/en/ enterprising-narpes

Öjskogsparken

visitnarpes.fi/en/sea-forestsand-small-town-charm

visitnarpes.fi/en/literaryjourney-through-narpes

Join a short and interesting tour that gives insight into Närpes’ well-known greenhouse industry.

The tour takes you past large, impressive greenhouse facilities and continues to Lind’s Kök, the popular greenhouse restaurant. → Read more about the tour at:

visitnarpes.fi/en/ greenhouse-tour

Greenhouse

visitnarpes.fi/en/discovercenter-narpes

visitnarpes.fi/en/ ancient-times-present-portom

We begin our walk at Pörtom Church, where we explore the church’s history. We continue past the site of the old church and onward to the scenic Erklass Trail. → Read more about the tour at:

visitnarpes.fi/en/discoverportom-foot

Pörtom Church

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PÖRTOM

1

About 2,700 years ago, when the land was still slowly rising from the sea and the landscape was shaped by water and forest, the first people settled in what is now Pörtom, at the northernmost part of Närpes.

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The harbour in Bla

1

The first resident of Pörtom

5

BLAXNÄS

nt in Nazi d as a staging poi in Blaxnäs was use r purpose bou ose har wh the rd, 4, No In 194 mando ration Sonderkom ope case the in ret d sec lan ’s Fin any in Germ vement rman resistance mo xnäs, was to build a pro-Ge iet Union. From Bla Sov the by ed occupi information were and country were to be ent ipm equ , members n.

Finnish resistance es onward to Swede any – and sometim smuggled to Germ coast es approached the marinTÖJBY at least three sub Germany. Contact to s It is believed that ard onw s ret dy to carry sec xnäs, and outside Närpes, rea motorboat from Bla es was managed by eden. One of those Sw with the submarin to y wa the rney went all to transport sometimes the jou s, whose task was Storsjö from Blaxnä st guard. When coa the d involved was Josef rte ale he n – but instead ans were Germans to Swede s waiting; the Germ , the coast guard wa was exposed, ion rat ope they were out at sea the er returned home. Aft arrested and Josef involvement in the convicted for their several people were failed mission.

5

TRÄSKBÖLE

According to old legends, the first permanent residents arrived from Laihela, where Swedes had lived since the Iron Age. They brought their language, their traditions – and their names. Even today, you can hear echoes of their history in place names such as Odd, Riback and Smedsudden.

The very first dwelling is said to have stood where the Närpes River makes a sharp turn south, just east of today’s centre. There, a settler built his simple smoke-filled home – a chimneyless house made of logs and turf called a pörte. From the smoke of that small house, a name was born that would remain – Pörtom, or Pirttikylä in Finnish.

2

ÖVERMARK

RANGSBY

3

2

Home to a valuable instrument

Finland’s mos

t valuable Ston

e Age

find Around 4,800 yea rs ago, during a dramatic hunt on struck by a harpo the ice, a Green on made from elk land seal was bone. The woun back out of the wa ded seal never ma ter – it sank to the YTTERMARK naged to get bottom with the There, in the soft harpoon still lod seabed clay, the ged in its body. remains were pre thousands of yea served almost un rs. Time passed, touched for the sea retreated brothers Valfrid an and the land ros d Einar Kullman e. In 1935, when were digging ditch made an unexp es at Kallmossen ected discovery in Finby, they – they came acr harpoon. The sit oss the skeleton e, once 42 metre and the ancient s below sea level, you can see the sea now lies 17 metre l and the harpoon s above it. Today, at the National Mu are considered on seum in Helsinki, e of Finland’s mo where they st valuable Stone another time.

Age finds – a qu iet echo from

NORRNÄS

In 1915, work began on building the Rangsby village church. Timber and building materials were gathered – including four windmills whose parts were later used in the construction. The church was built in the shape of a cross and was inaugurated in 1921. Inside the church is a Zachariassen organ, originally built in 1881 for Närpes Church. When Närpes Church received a new organ in 1950, the Zachariassen organ was moved to Rangsby village church, where it is still in use. With its twenty registers and two manuals, it is NÄMPNÄS one of the few remaining in its original condition from its time and is considered a historically and culturally valuable instrument.

NORRA NÄSBY

6

KÅTNÄS

4 FINBY

4

The cat in the dit

ch

This is the place wh ere “the cat and the old lady drove into in Lasse Erikson’s son the ditch” g Kåtongblues: “Ju st tenn vör Kåtonb anna ditje nier i bac oden fast i kan” – close to the shop in Kåtnäs, in ditch, further dow the opposite n the hill.

6

BÖLE

Did you know...

Närpes is full of hidden secrets and fascinating stories – from secret harbours and Stone Age discoveries to mysterious lights and old battle sites. Follow the map and explore the places where history still lives.

Närpes’ last execution site

Just south of where Närpes Grönsaker is located today lies Slottsbacken in Gottböle, also known as Galgbacken (Gallows mound) – the last known execution site in the Närpes district.

Here, the final execution in Närpes history was carried out on 1 October 1817.

At night, people claimed to see a mysterious glow, a so-called “ghost fire,” floating above the hill. It was also said that a bowl full of money could sometimes be seen on the ground – but when someone tried to take it, a limping hare appeared and lured the curious person away.

When the hare disappeared, both the hare and the bowl were gone without a trace.

At Slottsbacken, the stories of the past still in local memory. linger BÄCKLIDEN

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Blaxnäs | The harbor in Blaxnäs – a secret hub during the war

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Rangsby | Rangsby village church, home to a valuable instrument

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Kallmossen | Finland’s most valuable Stone Age find

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Kåtnäs | The cat in the ditch

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Pörtom | The first resident of Pörtom

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Gottböle | Gallows mound in Gottböle – Närpes’ last execution site

PJELAX