Laajalahti Nature Reserve

Laajalahti Nature Reserve is the best birding area located in southern Finland. The area protects the shallow sea bay and is important for the abundant breeding birds and thousands of birds resting during their migrations. Besides that, the Laajalahti Nature Reserve is a great recreation area with nature trails, viewpoints, and educational guided tours (bird and bat watching) and Nature House Villa Elfvik.

Wooden path trail with birds flying nearby

Photo: Daniela Brezinova

You will find there several nature trails along the Villa Elfvik. You can choose from 700m, 800m, and 1,3km trails or head to a 2,9km long trail connecting Laajalahti with Otaniemi district. If you are looking for a longer hike, you can start by the Gallen-Kallela Museum and continue along the sea following the 40km long Espoo Waterfront Walkway. The shortest 700m trail is also accessible with wheelchairs and strollers, as well as entering the Nature House Villa Elfvik.

Map and More about the area

How to arrive there?

You can reach the area by public busses (212, 213N, 555, and 550), City Bikes, or by car (CityBike parking and car parking is located near the Villa Elfvik).