Kajanni, Kainuu’s main city, conjures up the past with memories of famous Finns such as Elias Lönnrot, Eino Leino and Urho Kekkonen. Its wonderful forests beckon visitors to its nearby national parks.
Kajaani lies in the heart of the Finnish forest on either side of the River Kajaani, which empties into Lake Oulujärvi. Over time, it has been the city of residence of many outstanding individuals. A holiday in Kajaani gives you the perfect chance to discover the history of tar burning, something that has shaped the region over time. The ruins of Kajaani Castle, built during the Great Northern War (1700-1721), are a constant reminder of the area’s early history. From Kajaani, you can also reach the ski slopes of Vuokatti very easily.
Begin your city break in Kajaani with a visit to the ruins of the castle right in the centre of town, located between the Ämmäkoski and Koivukoski waterfalls. Constructed on the orders of King Charles IX of Sweden, the castle became the residence of Count Per Brahe the Younger, but was blown up in 1716. However, its restored ruins can now be visited by tourists. Ämmäkoski also boasts another essential site from the past: it is home to the world’s only functioning tar canal, and in summer there are tar rowing displays that act as a reminder of how locals made their livelihoods. At the same time, you can visit Lussitupa, the lodgings of the canal’s former lockkeepers.
Kajaani was the city of residence of many famous people in Finnish history, remembered by the city in several different ways. Elias Lönnrot, who was a doctor here for around 20 years, headed off to Karelia to collect the ancient poetry that was to become the famous Finnish epic known as the 'Kalevala'. A short distance away from the castle ruins is his statue, erected during the Continuation War (1941-1944). Also close by is Suuri Aika, a bronze monument dedicated to President Urho Kekkonen, and there’s an abstract sculpture on display in the park named after him.
Besides Lönnrot and Kekkonen, the poet Eino Leino was also one of Kajaani’s famous sons. While on holiday in the city, Eino Leino House is certainly worth a visit, a traditional edifice modelled on his childhood home of Hövelö. Here, visitors can find out more about the man’s life and work. There is also an exhibition at Hövelö portraying Lönnrot’s life, as this famous doctor and collector of ancient poems lived in the croft where Leino was born. While you are at it, why not pay a visit to Paltaniemi Church, with its famous magnificent ceiling and wall paintings?
Kajaani is the perfect place to explore Kainuu’s glorious countryside, and there is easy access from the city on the banks of Lake Oulujärvi to the many tranquil natural conservation areas. Nearby is Paljakka Strict Nature Reserve, where you will see spruce forests dating back hundreds of years as well as birch groves that have sprung up since parts of the forest were cleared. If you also get to the national parks known as Hiidenportti and Tiilikkajärvi, you will see gorges and ridges – it is an inexpensive way to enjoy the inspiring scenery of Kainuu. Hiidenportti Gorge or the dark waters of Lake Tiilikka are Kainuu’s landscape at its best.
Many travellers also come to Kajaani before they head for the slopes of the fun ski resort at Vuokatti. In winter, Vuokatti’s 13 well-tended slopes offer enjoyment for skiers of different levels, while in summer you can try slope racing or play golf. It is easy to get to Kajaani and Vuokatti, as the city is served by both an airport and a railway station.
