Visit Oulu Magazine 2019 English

VisitOulu

TH E O U LU R EG I O N , FI N L A N D 2 0 1 9 FA M I L I E S W I T H C H I L D R E N N AT U R E A N D AC T I V I T I E S C I T Y O F O U LU C U LT U R E

TH E OU LU REG ION I S A HAPPENI NG PL AC E ALL YE AR ROUN D

Photo from Syรถte.

TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION 4 – 5 Proud of the Oulu region 6 – 7 Safely by air – even in winter 8 – 9 The Oulu region 10 – 11 We proudly present: Oulu

FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN 12 – 17 Oulu for families

Rovaniemi

NATURE AND ACTIVITIES 18 – 23 Explore nature with a camera – a professional photographer’s favourite spots OULU

CITY OF OULU 24 – 29 A little romance in Oulu 30 – 31 Oulu city centre: atmospheric and easy to navigate

CULTURE 32 – 37 Hear the music, see the light – Culture in Oulu 38 – 39 SERVICE DIRECTORY

Helsinki

Stockholm

VISITOULU MAGAZINE 2019 Publisher: Oulun Matkailu Oy Production: Luova toimisto Ranka, luovatoimistoranka.fi Layout: Luova toimisto Ranka Content: Luova toimisto Ranka Print run: 5 000 Printed by: Pohjolan Palvelut Oy, Oulu 3

INTRODUCTION: PROUD OF THE OULU REGION

PROUD OF THE OULU REGION I’m the Bobby, one of the most popular sights in Oulu. I’ve been asked to describe my home region. For years, Market Square has been my vantage point on life in the city, so I know what I’m talking about!

Oulu, my home town, is a good place to live, even for a chubby policeman guarding the Market Square area. The locals are friendly people. They always greet me and take good care of me, and they also introduce me to visitors.

I've always been inspired by the Oulu region. It has a UNESCO World Heritage Site, white-clad ski slopes surrounded by nature, seashores and islands, and nesting areas for thousands of birds, all within a radius of a few hundred kilometres. That’s very special!

There’s always something going on in Oulu. Groups gather around me for all kinds of activities around the year. I love their enthusiasm. Despite all the activity, the

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atmosphere here is laid-back and peaceful.

The city centre is safe to move around in, even at the busiest times, and you don’t have to wait for hours in traffic or stand in a long queue for a nice cup of coffee.

I’m glad the Oulu region is home to a large number of families with kids. Their pure joy and energy are infectious! The Oulu region offers a wide range of activities and hobbies for children - and high-quality education, which makes me proud.

In other words, I openly admit that I’m very proud of my home region, and I invite you to visit and see for yourself.

With best regards, the Bobby

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INTRODUCTION: SAFELY BY AIR – EVEN IN WINTER

SAFELY BY AIR – EVEN IN WINTER Oulu has the second busiest airport in Finland, with dozens of take-offs and landings every day. The long, snowy winter poses challenges to safety, but Oulu Airport has world-leading snow-how to overcome them all.

WORLD-LEADING SNOW-HOW In the Oulu region, the ground may be covered with snow for six months of the year. However, the conditions on the airport runway need to be as summery as possible for every take-off and landing.

Such conditions are ensured by the maintenance team’s snow-how – its expertise in winter maintenance.

“Finnish snow-how is the best in the world. We ensure safe on-schedule operations throughout the year. Planes must be able to run safely despite the snow and sub-zero temperatures,” says Sami Lindroth, head of maintenance at Oulu Airport.

RESPONSIBILITY AROUND THE CLOCK Maintenance work is carried out at Oulu Airport around the clock.

There are always enough professionals on call, continuously monitoring the runway conditions. The runway temperature sensors make their work easier by providing information immediately if surface friction changes.

Such changes must be addressed rapidly. “We take immediate measures if the weather changes the runway surface friction. We also actively monitor the weather forecasts and reserve resources accordingly. The conditions are particularly challenging when it

rains and the temperature is close to zero, as that’s when the runway freezes most easily,” says Sami.

THE BEST PEOPLE AND EQUIPMENT Safe traffic and staying on schedule are ensured by the workers’ strong professional skills and the best equipment. “We're continuously working to create a pleasant travel experience, even when maintenance is not needed on the runway. At such times, we maintain our equipment, as well as the airport’s electricity network and buildings. Travellers don’t necessarily notice the results of our work – but they certainly would if we didn’t do our jobs properly,” Sami points out.

The maintenance team’s most important tool in the winter is a snow plough with a brush and blower to clear the runway of snow, ice and water. It takes 20 minutes for these snow ploughs to clean the 2.5-kilometre long, 60-metre wide runway at Oulu Airport.

Visit Oulu Airport online: Finavia.fi

A snowplough at work.

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EXPERIENCE THE NORDICS BEFORE YOU GET THERE T H E N O R D I C WAY

ENJOY THE WARMTH OF NORDIC HOSPITALITY WITH FINNAIR

Our Northern heritage has shaped the way we think. We know the value of personal space, privacy and simplicity. Feel it yourself and book your flights at finnair.com

INTRODUCTION: THE OULU REGION

KALAJOKI

LIMINKA

RAAHE

ROKUA GEOPARK

SYÖTE

UKKOHALLA

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Syöte

OULU Ukkohalla

Liminka

Rokua

Raahe

В уокат ти

Kalajoki

THE OULU REGION The region around Oulu is an attractive destination you’ll want to visit again and again: every visit offers something new. You can try swamp football, admire the Midnight Sun from amidst the dunes or go downhill skiing on Finland’s southernmost fell. Even the remotest destinations are only a two-hour drive or bus ride from Oulu.

KALAJOKI

RAAHE

SYÖTE

Kalajoki is known for its long beach, which is ideal for lying in the sun, relaxing and doing water sports. In summer, the sun shines almost around the clock. In winter, the snow-covered dunes and sea are a startling sight. Kalajoen Hiekkasärkät is a compact holiday resort offering a wide range of services and activities for the whole family. It's open throughout the year. visitkalajoki.fi

The seaside town of Raahe offers a historic setting for a walk through the idyllic alleys of an old district of wooden houses. Its wide selection of events and cultural activities offers a huge range of experiences. You can also try local delicacies in its atmospheric restaurants and cafés. visitraahe.fi

The Syöte fell centre consists of two ski resorts and a national park. The snowy fell scenery is perfect for downhill skiing, as long as you remember to sip something warm every now and then! Here you can also experience Finland’s longest snow park or a freeride slope. Kids will enjoy dedicated slopes and Snow World. You can go hiking and mountain biking throughout the year and take a reindeer or husky safari in winter. syote.fi

LIMINKA Liminka, the most rapidly growing municipality in Finland, is a dream come true for nature lovers. More than 160 bird species nest in the area in the spring, and you can spot thousands of birds in the sky during the spring and autumn migrations. You can even go birdwatching on a fatbike, as Liminka has one of northern Finland's best mountain biking networks. Along with a hotel, coffee shop and nature exhibition, the Liminka Bay Visitor Centre offers an extensive range of programme services. visitliminka.fi

ROKUA GEOPARK Rokua Geopark, the Finnish Outdoor Destination of the Year 2018, is an amazing nature experience. Its landscapes were shaped during the Ice Age. Here you’ll feel connected with nature. You can explore the area by going hiking, fishing or mountain biking. Rokua is the world’s northernmost UNESCO Global Geopark. rokuageopark.fi

UKKOHALLA Get a team together with your friends and head to Ukkohalla for the Swamp Football World Championships. Only the fun counts here, and it doesn’t matter if you kick a tussock instead of the ball. In the evening, you can enjoy a sauna by the lake in the ski resort’s cottage village and admire Ukkohalla hill on the other side of the lake. ukkohalla.fi

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INTRODUCTION: WE PROUDLY PRESENT: OULU

WE PROUDLY PRESENT: OULU Next to the sea in northern Finland, Oulu is the dynamic centre of its region. As well as being one of the largest cities in Finland, Oulu is idyllic, atmospheric, compact and close to nature. Oulu offers unique experiences among jovial people who don't know what self-importance is.

OULU, BETWEEN YOU AND ME

GETTING TO AND AROUND OULU

The Bobby, a statue on Market Square, embodies Oulu: a little modest, perhaps, but so welcoming and easy to approach that you'll want to see him again. You’ll find the Bobby among the people and close to services. Yet he’s also close to nature. Standing in an open space near the sea, he’s exposed to the weather and the four seasons. But the Bobby stays positive and always greets people with a smile, locals and visitors alike - and he never turns down a selfie.

The Rotuaari pedestrian district extends all the way to Market Square. The streets of Rotuaari never feel crowded: people love spending time in its shops, restaurants and cafés. Those looking for more activity will enjoy Oulu's wide range of activities: the city offers international music festivals and varied art festivals all year round. Oulu is known for its unique events and distinctive cultural offerings.

BY AIR Domestic and international flights arrive at Oulu Airport every day.

A direct flight from Helsinki takes only an hour.

OULU, BETWEEN FRIENDS Locals love Oulu's lack of pretence: they’re allowed to be themselves. It's easy to get along with them – they simply don't know what self-importance is. They’re always friendly, helpful and polite – but also honest, refusing to bow to anyone. They can start a conversation anywhere, be it at the bar or the supermarket checkout. The atmosphere is laid-back, with no sense of chaos or urgency, except for the occasional cyclist dashing by. And the local buses run on time, of course.

Oulu is a combination of old and new, small and large. The city is proud of its traditions, but it also seeks to develop further and create something new. Oulu is large enough to offer activities and experiences for the entire duration of a holiday, yet everything is nearby and the city can also be explored in a day.

It’ll probably win you over in less than a day!

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BY TRAIN OR BUS Oulu is connected by rail to all Finland's major cities. The distance between Helsinki and Oulu is 600 km, around six hours by train.

Oulu is conveniently accessible by bus from smaller towns. A bus ride from Helsinki to Oulu takes around eight hours.

BY BICYCLE OR LOCAL BUS Oulu is known for its high-quality flat cycling routes, making getting around by bicycle a pleasure. Bicycles are available for hire from Lappis Kite School and the Nallikari Holiday Village, to name just two examples. Local buses run throughout Oulu from early morning until the early hours at affordable fares.

BY RENTAL CAR OR CHARTER BUS Rent a car or hire a charter bus if you want to visit the Oulu region's municipalities. From a wide selection, you’ll find the perfect option for small and large groups alike.

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FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN: OULU FOR FAMILIES

OULU FOR FAMILIES Parents know that travelling with small children is an art of its own and requires more careful planning than your average holiday.

The secret to a successful holiday with children is a good holiday base – the place where you’ll be staying. From your holiday base, you can make short and longer trips to nearby areas and return to your temporary home in the evening.

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FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN: OULU FOR FAMILIES

With a carefully chosen holiday base, you don't need to pack everything for each trip – you can just pack the things you need most. In the morning, it’s a good idea to spend some time planning the day’s meals and activities and pack accordingly.

A snack and a bottle of water are enough for shorter trips. For full-day trips, you’ll need a change of clothes, as well as nappies and a packed lunch.

A good holiday base plays an important role: it should be a place where you can relax and calm down after a trip. Everyone has their own bed, and the children will feel safe like they do at home and wake up re-energised in the morning, ready for the day’s adventures. When selecting your holiday base, you should also make sure

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it’s close to suitable sites and destinations and that the local area offers enough activities for a full day. During your holiday, it’s a good idea to spend the occasional day at your base and only visit a nearby park or beach. So your holiday base should have enough room for everyone.

NALLIKARI Nallikari is the perfect holiday base in Oulu.

You can choose from a wide range of accommodation options, and the one-kilometre beach and the spa and the playground in Nallikari offer enough to do for a day or two. The area has two restaurants.

Nallikari is only a few kilometres from the centre of Oulu.

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FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN: OULU FOR FAMILIES

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN NALLIKARI: Break Sokos Hotel Eden offers hotel rooms for easy and comfortable accommodation. The hotel has a spa, a gym and a restaurant with a wonderful view.

At the Nallikari Holiday Village and Campsite, you can stay in a cottage or villa, and kids can play outdoors.

With a camper van or tent, you can make longer trips from your holiday base, and you'll have enough room for everyone and all they things you need.

ACTIVITIES AROUND THE CORNER: Nallikari beach, with its shallow waters, is ideal for a day with the kids. The beach has a climbing frame and ice cream kiosk, as well as opportunities for more high-energy activities like beach volleyball or water sports.

The Vauhtipuisto amusement park, with its carousels and car rides, is within walking distance.

On the Hietasaari nature trails, you can spend a day in the great outdoors, with the starting point right next to the hotel. You’ll find a bird observation tower and a campfire site along the trails.

A FEW KILOMETRES AWAY: Take a local bus or rent bicycles to visit Tietomaa, a science centre with themed exhibitions and more than 150 activity points. Be sure not to miss its 3D cinema or its glass-wall lift, which will take you to the top of a 45-metre tower.

The SuperPark indoor activity park is in Limingantulli, around eight kilometres from Nallikari. Here you’ll work up a good sweat, with activities for people of all ages. The building also houses Robson, a restaurant for the entire family.

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LESS THAN AN HOUR'S DRIVE: Liminka is an area ideal for admiring nature and animals. A rental car will take you there in less than 30 minutes. Escurial Zoo and Flower Park is home to more than 400 animals. The Liminka Bay Visitor Centre will make enthusiastic birdwatchers of your whole family.

Chosen as the Finnish Outdoor Destination of the Year 2018, Rokua Geopark is the world’s northernmost UNESCO Global Geopark. Its impressive landscapes were formed during the Ice Age. Here you can spend a fascinating day in nature. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

During a day trip to Raahe, you’ll enjoy the milieu of a historic town and a maritime atmosphere. Join a guided tour of Old Raahe and visit Finland’s oldest local museum.

TWO HOURS' DRIVE: A trip to Syöte is a must for every snow and skiing enthusiast. Skiing is safe and easy for children on the wide slopes of Snow World. Older children can try SnowPark, Finland’s longest snow park.

A summer day will fly by at the Hiekkasärkät sand dunes in Kalajoki. Be sure to include the climbing sites and ziplines at the Pakka Adventure Park.

The cross-country skiing tracks in Ukkohalla are suitable for the whole family. Summer attractions include a wakeboarding course and the Swamp Football World Championships.

A four-star holiday village by the sea When you need peace and quiet, relaxed atmosphere and quality accommodation in a scenic setting, Nallikari Holiday Village is the place for you.

044 7031353 • sales@nallikari.fi • Leiritie 10, 90510 Oulu

Online Booking: www.nallikari.fi

NATURE AND ACTIVITIES: EXPLORE NATURE WITH A CAMERA – A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER’S FAVOURITE SPOTS

EXPLORE NATURE WITH A CAMERA – A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER’S FAVOURITE SPOTS An Oulu-based nature photographer hikes with his dog, is inspired by the sea and cherishes a memory of the startling sound of the ice.

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NATURE AND ACTIVITIES: EXPLORE NATURE WITH A CAMERA – A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER’S FAVOURITE SPOTS

Harri Tarvainen is an Oulu-based photographer specialising in northern nature and people’s enjoyment of it. He started his career taking pictures of snowboarders and has won awards for his work. He has been a professional photographer for 14 years.

“This work is about continuous learning.

Sometimes you succeed, and sometimes failure takes you forward. You always have something to learn,” says Harri.

Harri has travelled a lot, but he thinks the Oulu region is one of the best places to spend time in nature.

“Visitors here used to be asked why they came. Today, no one wonders why people like Oulu. Clean air and water and the cold

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climate have become trendy,” says Harri.

Harri hopes Oulu inspires tourists to connect with nature and take at least some of their newfound appreciation of it home with them.

INSPIRED BY THE SEA Harri lives in Vihiluoto in Oulunsalo and finds endless photo opportunities by the sea near his home. He goes hiking with his dog, Kaffe, a camera around his neck.

“A camera piques your curiosity – you begin to see things differently,” he explains.

Many of Harri’s renowned images combine nature activities with the north's iconic landscapes.

Areas by the sea are his favourite locations in Oulu. Harri finds that less is more in these minimalistic landscapes.

“I can feel myself being more present than usual in such an environment.”

Harri finds seascapes fascinating because they’re always changing with the conditions, season, weather and time of day. They’re perfect examples of nature’s diversity.

“My minimalistic seashore images attract the most attention on social media.”

For Harri and Kaffe, autumn is the best time to explore nature: after the summer, the cooler weather offers excellent hiking opportunities. And the sea is still there.

“Many people don’t know that the Oulu region has lots of beaches ideal for surfing, particularly during storms and the big autumn waves – but you need a wetsuit,” says Harri.

Kaffe loves spending time outdoors and is particularly fond of seashores, much like his owner. Kaffe also likes swimming, come rain or shine.

“I can take Kaffe with me to many places, like coffee shops or on camping trips. He’s a cool dude, very calm,” Harri says about his best friend.

THE STARTLING SOUND OF THE ICE Harri and Kaffe’s fondest memory of a hiking trip is connected with the sea.

“It was November, and I was tour skating near the Hailuoto ferry harbour in Oulunsalo after the first frosty nights of the autumn. The ice was different, and its sound is etched in my memory,” Harri explains.

Harri and Kaffe stayed close to the shore. The open sea, around a hundred metres from the shore, was not yet frozen.

Harri could see all the way to the bottom through the thin ice. He could hear a surprisingly loud, crystalline sound emanating from between the ice and water.

The sun was shining, and the water on the ice made its surface look like a mirror. One of Harri’s most impressive images was taken in this setting.

Harri says he finds locations through things like Instagram, and he encourages everyone to share their location on social media when they're in the great outdoors.

He also encourages people to visit familiar places at unusual times.

“At a different time, in different weather, you’ll find a familiar landscape is also completely different. Instead of always trying to find something new, you can find new perspectives.”

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NATURE AND ACTIVITIES: EXPLORE NATURE WITH A CAMERA – A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER’S FAVOURITE SPOTS

HARRI’S FAVOURITE LOCATIONS RAJAHAUTA “From the marina, duckboards will take you over a distance of 1.5 kilometres to a bird observation tower by the sea in the Letonniemi conservation area. The autumn colours make the place very picturesque. The short route is easy to navigate, which makes it ideal for a day trip with family or friends.”

PILPASUO “This is a classic location in the Oulu region, with seven types of bog, duckboard routes of various lengths and a lean-to for enjoying your packed lunch. Pilpasuo is ideal for a day trip with the family or a group of friends.”

ROKUA GEOPARK “Full of impressive landscapes and photo opportunities, Rokua Geopark is one of the most varied hiking locations in Finland, all in a compact area.”

SYÖTE “The snow and white ice accumulating on the tree crowns look magnificent. The Soiperoinen area of the Syöte National Park is also very impressive with its pines, ridges and and small, crystal-clear lakes.

RIVINNOKKA IN HAUKIPUDAS “A perfect destination for a crosscountry skiing or tour skating trip. There’s an igloo café, a lean-to and a campfire site by the sea, and an exotic lighthouse on a little islet around one kilometre from the shore.”

Follow Harri and Kaffe on Instagram: @kaffegram

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CITY OF OULU: A LITTLE ROMANCE IN OULU

A LITTLE ROMANCE IN OULU When daily life seems dreary, it’s time for a little getaway. Oulu is a lovely holiday destination for couples.

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CITY OF OULU: A LITTLE ROMANCE IN OULU

9 AM: BREAKFAST AT THE HOTEL Breakfast is a good time for planning. Your partner wants to take in some culture, and you just want to relax. Your romantic day in Oulu will cater to both these wishes.

10 AM: TO THE PARK! You rent bicycles at the hotel and head towards Hupisaaret, a group of small islands in the Oulu River delta, only a stone’s throw from the city centre. Between the islands, there are beautiful ponds, brooks and little rapids, with a dense network of white bridges and pedestrian routes. By the river, you admire gorgeous fountains, with the sunlight flitting through the sprays of water.

Hupisaaret also offers culture: the Oulu Museum of Art and the Northern Ostrobothnia Museum are here. After your visit to the museums, you sit down for a moment in the old gazebo among the trees to enjoy an intimate moment and steal a kiss.

1 PM: COFFEE BREAK From Hupisaaret, you jump on your bicycles and head for the Tähtitorni Café. It’s in an old observatory built in the nineteenth century on top of the remains of the seventeenth-century Oulu

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Castle’s stone cellar. Here you enjoy a coffee on the top floor of the pink tower. The view is spectacular in all directions: the sea, the islands, the hustle and bustle of the city, and magnificent, lush nature. It’s so absorbing that you almost forget to drink your coffees before they get cold.

On the way back down the stairs, you notice that along with the bookshelves there’s an art exhibition on the walls. Now it’s time to move on – you’re already feeling peckish.

2 PM: LATE LUNCH You cycle across the bridge to Pikisaari to enjoy a late lunch of traditional Oulu cuisine at Sokeri-Jussin Kievari. Your window has a view over the Oulu River and Market Square. The food is delicious and gives you the energy to continue your tour of Oulu's most romantic places.

Pikisaari is a picturesque residential area favoured by artists and artisans with fascinating studios for you to visit. In the island’s shops, you find local design and jewellery to take home. Behind the old wooden and brick buildings, there's a spectacular trail around the island. At the other end of the island, across a bridge, you find your next destination.

4 PM: ON THE BEACH Nallikari beach is only a few minutes from Pikisaari. After the marinas and lush forests of Hietasaari, you find a long, spacious beach.

You hear the waves and feel the gentle sea breeze in your hair as you cycle along the promenade towards the turquoise lighthouse – the perfect place for an ice cream before the beach.

It’s a warm summer day, so the beach is crowded, but there is still plenty of room for your relaxing moment in the sun and cooling paddle in the water. It’s easy to forget the passage of time here.

As you gaze at the open sea, you decide to return to Nallikari at sunset – which in the summer means the early hours of the morning. You’re on holiday, after all!

7 PM: BACK TO THE CITY CENTRE You return to your hotel relaxed and re-energised, having thoroughly enjoyed your day. After freshening up a little, you head towards the Rotuaari pedestrian district to enjoy supper in an atmospheric restaurant. There are plenty of options here. Enjoying delicious food after an unforgettable day, you get lost in each other’s eyes and enjoy the moment. It’s easy to just be in the here and now!

You still have time to enjoy a three-course meal and a drink before sunset, listening to live music. You had decided to go back to Nallikari for the sunset – but the comfy bed in your hotel room begins to seem more attractive in the early hours of the morning.

Time to get some sleep – you can always catch the sunset at Nallikari tomorrow!

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CITY OF OULU: A LITTLE ROMANCE IN OULU

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BEST PLACES FOR COUPLE SELFIES IN OULU: HUPISAARET: A romantic selfie in Hupisaaret cannot fail, no matter which background you choose: the fountains, the lush parks or the gazebo.

NALLIKARI: If a selfie at sunset is too late for you, take one in the lighthouse or write your initials in the sand and use that as your background.

KOITELI: The Koiteli rapids are a 30-minute drive from the centre of Oulu. There are loads of good selfie locations here. You can enjoy a picnic or spend the whole day in Koiteli.

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CITY OF OULU: OULU CITY CENTRE: ATMOSPHERIC AND EASY TO NAVIGATE

OULU CITY CENTRE: ATMOSPHERIC AND EASY TO NAVIGATE Oulu’s centre is easy to navigate for visitors – everything is nearby. Every part of the city centre is accessible on foot or by bicycle, and you can park your car underground in Kivisydän. Oulu's centre can be divided into two districts: the streets in and close to the Rotuaari pedestrian zone, and the Market Square area. The city centre has a major shopping centre, more than 100 restaurants and coffee shops, and characterful boutiques.

SHOPPING IN VALKEA AND ROTUAARI Valkea is a five-storey shopping centre in the heart of Oulu, with more than 60 shops and restaurants. Here you’ll find the latest trends and best brands, which makes Valkea your one-stop shop for everything from interior design to clothing and food.

Summer Street, a covered street running through Valkea, serves as a meeting place and venue for events throughout the year.

Next to Valkea, the Rotuaari pedestrian district adds to the wide selection of shops specialising in fashion and recreation, along with restaurants and coffee shops.

ENJOYING THE SUMMER ON A PATIO In the summer, Oulu is also known for its patios. Almost every restaurant has a summer patio where guests can sit and enjoy the fare. There are patios at restaurants across the city centre, with the major hub in the Market Square area.

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LOCAL HANDICRAFTS AND HOME DECORATION IDEAS FROM THE TORINRANTA GRANARY SHOPS The old granary boutiques on Market Square offer souvenirs and home decoration products. They also sell specialist coffees and teas and other exotic flavours.

The granary restaurants have something for everybody, with à la carte menus and delicious pancakes.

OULU MARKET SQUARE: SEASONAL FOODS AND LOCAL TRADITIONS Oulu Market Square teems with life in the summer. Its market sellers offer seasonal

berries and vegetables, fresh sweets and attractive souvenirs. You can also meet the Bobby and try traditional local dishes and favourites like vendace and rössypottu, a dish of potatoes, pork and blood sausage.

CITY CENTRE

struction of cycle paths. The centre of Oulu has nearly 300 shops and 142 restaurants, with more of everything to come.

More information: rotuaari.info kauppakeskusvalkea.fi

Oulu's development and renewal is evident in many ways in the city centre.

Construction has been active in the centre in recent years, with the largest projects being the Kivisydän underground parking facility with 900 parking spaces and the Valkea shopping centre. The city centre is also being further developed by the con31

CULTURE: HEAR THE MUSIC, SEE THE LIGHT – CULTURE IN OULU

HEAR THE MUSIC, SEE THE LIGHT – CULTURE IN OULU In Oulu, you can experience both ends of the cultural spectrum, from mosh pits to museums.

If you’re looking for distinctive events and cultural experiences, Oulu is the place for you.

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CULTURE: HEAR THE MUSIC, SEE THE LIGHT – CULTURE IN OULU

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES AND CONTRASTS

CULTURE IS CREATED BY PASSIONATE PEOPLE

We all gravitate towards different experiences: some people love fangirling or fanboying in the front row when their favourite artist is performing at a festival.

Others enjoy performance art in the intimate atmosphere of a dark room. For some, experiences mean something unprecedented or unique.

The Air Guitar World Championships are one of the most significant and unique events on Oulu's cultural scene. Organised annually since 1996, the event has developed into an internationally significant celebration of music, attracting thousands of visitors to Oulu, not to mention online and media attention. Most of the contestants come from abroad, through national qualifying events. The Air Guitar World Championships are a welcoming music event with a peace-building message: make air, not war. Justin “Nordic Thunder” Howard won the championship in 2012 and became a true fan of Oulu and its people in the process.

Culture nurtures the soul, but it can also challenge you and shake you up.

Sometimes culture affects and touches you with contrasts. Lumo Light Festival Oulu does just that. The idea of the light festival is to celebrate and illuminate the darkest time of the year by showcasing light installations by local and international artists around the city centre. During the festival, many monuments in the city are lit in startlingly beautiful colours.

Event organisers in Oulu know how to create impressive experiences. Something about this northern city makes them try a little harder, innovate a little more wildly and do a bit more to create genuinely unique events and content. Their work promoting culture is invaluable.

According to Samu Forsblom, Director of Culture at the City of Oulu, the work of Oulu's creators of culture deserves to be seen and heard, which is why Oulu is seeking to become the European Capital of Culture 2026. “Oulu has its own sound, which we want everyone to hear. The cultural scene in Oulu draws on huge expertise and experience. The City of Oulu continues to support a strong sense of community and a good vibe between people in organising events.”

The Oulu Music Festival and the Oulu August Festival are just two examples of this good vibe. These events consist of hundreds of smaller events, paying homage to creators of culture in various fields. The Oulu Music Festival is held annually in March and – as the name suggests – the Oulu August Festival in August. They feature a wide selection of international and local artists and performances. Local culture is important for local residents and visitors alike, and its creators are greatly appreciated.

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CULTURE: HEAR THE MUSIC, SEE THE LIGHT – CULTURE IN OULU

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TOP LOCATIONS FOR EVENTS AND CULTURE HEVIMESTA With its 700 seats, Hevimesta is one of the largest live-music venues in Oulu.

Top Finnish and foreign artists perform here regularly, from heavy metal and hard rock to lighter and softer genres. The restaurant also serves as a nightclub and karaoke venue. A must for music fans. hevimesta.fi

OULU MUSEUM OF ART Exhibitions at the Oulu Museum of Art focus on current modern art, but also feature local and regional perspectives. The Ainoa museum shop sells unique, high-quality gifts and interior design products for people of all ages. You can enjoy the art on your own or join a guided tour. www.ouka.fi/oulu/luuppi-english/oulu-museum-of-art

VALVE CULTURAL CENTRE Valve offers activities and events for people of all ages, from clubs and workshops to festivals and exhibitions, and from a wide range of concerts to unique theatrical performances and other fascinating cultural offerings. kulttuurivalve.fi

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SERVICE DIRECTORY

ACCOMMODATION Finlandia Hotel Airport Oulu Vihiluoto 10, Kempele +358 8 514 5100 www.airporthotel.fi Best Western Hotel Apollo Asemakatu 31–33, Oulu +358 8 522 11 www.hotelapollo.fi Break Sokos Hotel Eden Holstinsalmentie 29, Oulu +358 20 123 4603 www.sokoshotels.fi Hotel Iso-Syöte Isosyötteentie 246, Syöte +358 20 147 6400 www.hotelli-isosyote.fi Hotel Pikku-Syöte Syötekeskuksentie 126, Syöte +358 8 815 4000 www.pikkusyote.fi Hotel Lasaretti Kasarmintie 13 b, Oulu +358 20 757 4700 www.lasaretti.com Hotel-Restaurant Liminka Bay Rantakurvi 6, Liminka +358 400 565 040 www.liminganlahti.fi Hotel Kortteeri Vellamontie 12, Oulu +358 10 843 4500 www.pohto.fi Hotel Rokuanhovi Jaakonjärventie 43, Rokua +358 10 501 4420 www.rokuanhovi.fi Kalajoki Booking Centre Jukupolku 5, Kalajoki Hiekkasärkät p. +358 8 469 4449 www.kalajokikeskusvaraamo.fi Santa's Resort & Spa Hotel Sani Jukupolku 3–5, Kalajoki +358 8 469 2500 www.kalajokiresort.fi Lapland Hotels Oulu Kirkkokatu 3, Oulu +358 8 881 1110 www.laplandhotels.com Merilä Manor Meriläntie 1, Utajärvi +358 50 382 0206 www.merilankartano.com Nallikari Holiday Village Leiritie 10, Oulu +358 44 703 1353 www.nallikari.fi Original Sokos Hotel Arina Pakkahuoneenkatu 16, Oulu +358 8 312 3111 www.sokoshotels.fi

Rokua Health & Spa Hotel Kuntoraitti 2, Rokua +358 20 781 9200 www.rokua.com

Amarillo Kirkkokatu 15, Oulu +358 44 788 6710 www.amarillo.fi

Restaurant Hugo Rantakatu 4, Oulu +358 20 143 2200 www.ravintolahugo.fi

Rokua central booking service The Suppa Visitor Centre Jaakonjärventie 2, Rokua +358 8 554 5500 www.rokuageopark.fi

Bacaro Doppio Isokatu 25, Oulu +358 44 405 0760 www.raflaamo.fi

Restaurant Nallikari Nallikarinranta 15, Oulu +358 44 515 1500 www.ravintolanallikari.fi

Coffee House Pakkahuoneenkatu 16, Oulu +358 44 788 6760 www.raflaamo.fi

Restaurant Ruffi Vellamontie 12, Oulu +358 10 843 4500 www.pohto.fi

Frans & Camille Pakkahuoneenkatu 16, Oulu +358 44 788 6720 www.raflaamo.fi

Rosso Oulu Isokatu 24, Oulu +358 44 405 0770 www.raflaamo.fi

Grill it!

Kauppurienkatu 24, Oulu +358 44 788 6188 www.raflaamo.fi

Rosso Zeppelin Zeppelinintie, Kempele +358 44 788 4880 www.raflaamo.fi

Hevimesta Uusikatu 23, Oulu +358 8 522 1335 www.hevimesta.com

Sandy Kelt Kalakuja 7, Kalajoki Hiekkasärkät +358 10 583 0030 www.sandykelt.fi

Rokuan lomahuvilat Kuntoraitti 3, Rokua +358 50 569 4773 www.rokuanlomahuvilat.fi Scandic Oulu City Saaristonkatu 4, Oulu +358 8 543 1000 www.scandichotels.fi Syöte Booking Centre Romekievarintie 1, Oulu +358 8 823 400 www.syote.net Ukkohalla Booking Centre Ukkohallantie 22, Hyrynsalmi +358 8 748 500 www.ukkohalla.fi

RESTAURANTS AND NIGHT CLUBS

Karaoke Bar Asemakatu 31–33, Oulu +358 8 522 1500 www.karaokebar.net

Heinäkenkä Limingantie 5, Oulu +358 8 882 1777 www.karaokebar.net/heinakenka

Karaokepub Aitta 22 Rantakatu, Oulu +358 8 522 1652 www.karaokebar.net

Ale Bar Hallituskatu 17, Oulu +358 8 5221434

Maikkula Estate Maikkulanrinne 21, Oulu +358 44 740 3550 www.maikkulankartano.fi

Wäinö-klubi Asemakatu 20, Oulu +358 8 372 060 www.karaokebar.net/waino Restaurant Upseerikerho Veteraaninkatu 2, Oulu +358 20 757 4701 oulunupseerikerho.fi Petrellin Saluuna Rantakatu 4, Oulu +358 40 134 4010 petrelli.fi Vanha Paloasema Ullakko Kauppuerienkatu 24 A, 3.krs., Oulu +358 44 788 6188 www.raflaamo.fi Health to Organic, H2O www.health2organic.fi Uusikatu, Oulu +358 44 084 6850 Ritaharjuntie 49, Oulu +358 44 539 4501 Pekurintie 2, Kempele +358 44 714 0324 Solistinkatu 2–4, Oulu +358 44 714 0325 Paavo Havaksen tie 5, Oulu

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Pataässä Oulu Pakkahuoneenkatu 7, Oulu +358 8 522 1677 www.karaokebar.net Pepper's Isokatu 36, Oulu +358 8 522 1444 www.karaokebar.net Pub Graali Saaristonkatu 5, Oulu +358 8 530 7660 www.graali.fi Puistokahvila Makia Otto Karhin Puisto, Oulu +358 44 788 6180 www.raflaamo.fi Isokadun Putka Isokatu 36, Oulu +358 8 522 1236 www.karaokebar.net Restaurant Rauhala Mannenkatu 4, Oulu +358 40 553 3079 www.ravintolarauhala.fi Restaurant Dyyni Dyynitie 4, Kalajoki +358 10 583 0031 www.hiekkadyyni.fi

Sokeri-Jussi Tavern Pikisaarentie 2, Oulu +358 44 762 0996 www.sokerijussi.fi Vanha Paloasema Kauppurienkatu 24 A, Oulu +358 44 788 6190 www.raflaamo.fi Tuba Food and Lounge Mannenkatu 2, Oulu +358 40 838 7737 www.tuba.fi Vihiluodon Kala Rytiniementie 4, Tupos +358 8 521 2725 www.vihiluodonkala.fi Yöhuikka Mäkelininkatu 13, Oulu +358 8 522 1623 www.yohuikka.fi Voimala 1889 Kasarmintie 1, Oulu +358 40 838 6644 www.voimala1889.fi Langin kauppahuone Kirkkokatu 19, Raahe +358 44 240 2481 www.langinkauppahuone.fi

CULTURE AND EVENTS Cultural Centre Valve Hallituskatu 7, Oulu +358 8 5584 7500 www.kulttuurivalve.fi Summer Theatre Meri Oulu Pitkänmöljäntie 2, Oulu +358 50 595 1497 www.merioulu.fi

Oulu - a city for children's culture Hallituskatu 7, Oulu www.lastenkulttuurioulu.fi Oulu Theatre Kaarlenväylä 2, Oulu +358 300 472 333 teatteri.ouka.fi Oulun Kulttuuritapahtumayhdistys Hallituskatu 7, Oulu +358 40 049 2649 www.oulunjuhlaviikot.fi Oulu Sinfonia Leevi Madetojan katu 1–3, Oulu +358 44 703 7221 www.oulusinfonia.fi Northern Photographic Centre Hallituskatu 7, Oulu +358 40 128 1150 www.photonorth.fi Teatteri Rio Hallituskatu 11, Oulu +358 50 595 1497 www.teatteririo.fi Museum and Science Centre Luuppi www.oulunluuppi.fi

Soveliuksen talo Rantakatu 36, Raahe +358 44 439 3334 Wanha apteekki Kauppakatu 31, Raahe +358 44 439 3334 Saloisten kotiseutumuseo Arkkukarintie, Arkkukari +358 50 305 3183 Ojalan kotiseutumuseo Ojalantie, Pattijoki +358 44 026 4678 Olkijoen rauhanpirtti Siikajoentie, Pattijoki +358 44 439 3334

ACTIVITIES AND ENTERTAINMENT Atteson Fishing Turkanheimontie 6, Oulu +358 40 516 8007 www.atteson.fi The Escurial Zoo and Flower Park Paavolantie 83 C, Liminka +358 8 384 903 www.kukka-jaelainpuistoescurial.fi

Oulu Museum of Art Kasarmintie 9, Oulu +358 44 703 7471

Eventours +358 40 761 1466 www.eventours.fi

Science Centre Tietomaa Nahkatehtaankatu 6, Oulu +358 50 316 6489

Exit Oulu Uusikatu 22, Oulu Kajaaninkatu 22, Oulu Kirkkokatu 17, Oulu +358 50 465 5181 www.exitoulu.fi

Northern Ostrobothnia museum Ainolanpolku 1, Oulu +358 44 703 7161 Kierikki Stone Age Centre Pahkalantie 447 A, Oulu +358 50 410 7309 Turkansaari Open Air Museum Turkansaarentie 165, Oulu +358 44 703 7190 Pateniemi Sawmill Museum Sahantie 21, Oulu +358 50 316 6497 Local Museum of Oulunsalo Jääsköntie 5, Oulu +358 50 523 9569 Oulun linnan kellari Linnasaari 1, Oulu Raahe Museum www.raahenmuseo.fi Pakkahuoneen museo Rantakatu 33, Raahe +358 40 135 6850 Kruununmakasiinimuseo Merikatu 10, Raahe +358 40 135 6949

Finnature Ylikiimingintie 205, Muhos +358 45 129 4264 www.finnature.fi Go Arctic Events +358 8 4152 7770 www.goarctic.fi Ski Resort Iso-Syöte Romekievarintie 126, Syöte +358 20 147 6471 www.syote.fi Ski & Sport resort Ukkohalla Ukkohallantie 22, Hyrynsalmi +358 8 748 500 www.ukkohalla.fi Kite School Lappis +358 41 433 8602 www.lappis.fi Moments +358 40 508 8800 www.moments.fi Oulu Lines m/s Alexandra and m/s Angelina +358 40 528 2190 www.oululines.fi

Oulu Climbing Centre Paakakatu 7, Oulu +358 45 180 1403 www.oulunkiipeilykeskus.com SuperPark Tyrnäväntie 16, Oulu +358 10 325 2400 www.superparkoulu.fi Vauhtipuisto Amusement Park Hietasaarentie, Oulu +358 40 556 7533 www.vauhtipuisto.fi Syöte Wilderness Services Oksanperäntie 364, Syöte +358 400 604 772 www.syotteenerapalvelut.fi

TRANSPORT SERVICES Finavia Lentokentäntie 720, Oulu +358 20 708 7800 www.finavia.fi

Liminka Bay Visitor Centre Rantakurvi 6, Liminka +358 40 832 1781 http://www.nationalparks.fi/ liminkabayvisitorcentre Oulu City Tourist Office Torikatu 18, Oulu +358 8 5584 1330 www.visitoulu.fi Oulun koru Kirkkokatu 19, Oulu +358 44 740 3520 www.oulunkoru.fi Oulun Liikekeskus ry Saaristonkatu 14 A 4, Oulu www.rotuaari.info POHTO Training and Development Centre Vellamontie 12, Oulu +358 10 843 4500 www.pohto.fi

Finnair +358 9 818 0800 www.finnair.fi

RTG Sales Lönnrotinkatu 14 A 16, Kajaani +358 10 389 2207 www.rtgsales.fi

OTP Travel Ostomiehentie 13, Oulu +358 200 222 66 www.otptravel.fi

Sokos Pukumies Isokatu 25, Oulu +358 44 405 0700 www.sokos.fi/oulu

OTAXI www.otaxi.fi Oulu +358 8 370 073 Raahe +358 600 300 10

Syöte Visitor Centre Erätie 1, Pudasjärvi +358 206 39 6550 www.nationalparks.fi/ syotevisitorcentre

SAS +358 981 710 062 www.sas.fi

OTHER SERVICES Arctic China Oy Vartiokatu 5 A 22, Rovaniemi +358 44 276 7316 www.arcticchina.com Areena Oulu Tyrnäväntie 16, Oulu +358 20 779 0575 www.areenaoulu.fi Business Oulu Hallituskatu 36 A, Oulu +358 8 5585 5810 www.businessoulu.com Kalajoki Visitor Centre Jukupolku 5, Kalajoki +358 40 725 3506 www.nationalparks.fi/ kalajokivisitorcentre Kaleva Solistinkatu 4, Oulu +358 8 537 7610 www.kaleva.fi Valkea Shopping Centre Isokatu 22–25, Oulu www.kauppakeskusvalkea.fi

Technopolis Elektroniikkatie 8, Oulu +358 46 712 0000 www.technopolis.fi Tapahtumatalo Raahe Kirkkokatu 28, Raahe +358 44 439 3237 www.tapahtumataloraahe.fi

MUNICIPALITIES AND OTHER LOCATIONS Kalajoki www.visitkalajoki.fi Kiiminkijoki ry www.kiiminkijoki.fi

Municipality of Liminka www.liminka.fi Rokua Geopark www.rokuageopark.fi Syöte www.syote.fi Ukkohalla www.ukkohalla.fi Raahe www.raahe.fi

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Oulu City Tourist Office Torikatu 18, Oulu, Finland +358 (0)8 5584 1330 visitoulu@oulu.com www.visitoulu.fi