Keskuspuisto

About

Quick facts: A 1,000-hectare carpet of boreal forest stretches roughly 10 kilometers end to end, with wild blueberries, swaying pine bogs, and ponds just a bike ride from downtown apartment towers. Locals lap one of Europe's longest illuminated running tracks in summer, then dodge cross-country skiers on more than 20 kilometers of groomed trails in winter.

Highlights: Balancing on a gently rocking suspension bridge above a tea-colored forest pond, you can spot moose tracks pressed into soft mud just a couple of kilometers from the nearest tram stop. In summer, Highland cattle and sheep graze the open meadows at the northern farm, their loud, blowing snorts echoing across clearings long after you've left the pavement behind.

Insider tips

• Start at the south end's sports track for the fastest way onto the illuminated running loop.
• Wear rubber boots after rain, because the birch groves turn muddy and forest streams spill across the paths.
• Walk the northern farm area in summer to watch Highland cattle from the fence line and buy berries from the small stall.
• Skip weekend midday crowds by setting off before 8 a.m., when mist sits on the ponds and grooming machines have just laid fresh ski tracks.

More attractions in Helsinki

Helsinki Cathedral (Tuomiokirkko) - Senate Square

Suomenlinna Sea Fortress (Suomenlinna)

Temppeliaukio Church (Rock Church)

Market Square (Kauppatori)