Places of interest

Ainali Bird Lake is one of the important lakes in Finland for the number of rare species of birds. The beautiful lake side is a unique place for bird enthusiasts, photographers and travelers.

Korkatti Mountain is the highest place in the western part of Oulu province. It is an interesting tourist destination in North Ostrobothnia that offers unique landscapes. The mountain peak is 186,6 meters above sea level. 33 hectares of specially protected nature area surround Korkatti Mountain. You can get to know the area by hiking a nature trail. Along the route there are signs telling about the specifics of the nature of the area.

Haapavesi Folk Music Festival is an annual international folk music festival held in late June/early July. The festival week starts with acclaimed Folk Courses taught by top folk musicians from several different countries. In spring and autumn there are folk music weekends featuring musicians from various countries.

Kujala stables offer horse-riding courses and organizes horseback riding for active riders and basic riding skills for novices.

Workshop museum of string musical instruments Suihkonen. String musical instruments are individual and made by the master according to the customer’s wishes. The unusual atmosphere of the museum workshop will reveal a magical world of creating music.

Local History Museum Myyrilä will tell you about the history of our town and the traditions and customs of Haapavesi. Here you can a view of the town's past  - a kitchen of the 50s, medical equipment of the local doctor Viranko, military history room and many other things. The visitors can relax in the museum cafe run by local non-commercial organizations.

Paakkila is an old church parish of Haapavesi built in 1787. Both the building and the place are historically significant. It was here in Paakkila in 1893 that Finland’s first school of housekeeping and gardening was opened. You can learn the mysterious history of the priest’s family and enjoy a walk in the colourful garden.

Haapavesi Evangelical-Lutheran Church is a spacious modern church with plenty of natural light. An excellent organ, great acoustics and 500 seats offer a great setting for symphony orchestra and opera concerts.