Pihlajasaari – an island of pristine maritime nature
Only a short boat trip away from the city centre of Helsinki, the island that used to be a summer villa paradise is still a popular summer haven with sandy beaches and rolling cliffs. Pihlajasaari offers tranquillity and great services in the midst of nature.
Only three kilometres off the coast of central Helsinki, Pihlajasaari boasts a diverse natural landscape and good services, making sure that your day or weekend trip to the island will be a success. In fact there are two islands, Eastern and Western Pihlajasaari, joined by a footbridge, so that many visitors don’t even realise they have hopped an island.
Pihlajasaari has legendary sandy beaches, particularly on the western island. One of the beaches is guarded and maintained by the municipality during the period between 6 June and 14 August. The guarded beach is marked with red and yellow flags. Many of the visitors, however, head further beyond the sandy beaches to the cliffs, where you may find a quiet spot or cove all to yourself even on a busy day. On Eastern Pihlajasaari, there is also an area reserved for naturists.
In addition to the beautiful natural surroundings, the island also offers good services and atmospheric old buildings. Camping is possible on the eastern island on weekends for a fee of ten euros. Boats are also welcome, and day visitors can berth for free in the guest harbour. Overnight guests are charged a small fee.
On the western island, Restaurant Pihlajasaari offers food and beverages with a stunning sea view, while soaking up the atmosphere of 19th century villa life. The island is also home to a senior citizens recreational centre, Wirkkula. Immediately next to the boat jetty, Wirkkula has a small cafe with indoor and patio seating that is run by volunteers.
All visitors are also welcome to make use of the many picnic shelters with barbeques. The shelters are equipped with firewood and have water points nearby. In the midst of a barbeque or sunbathing, you are welcome to have a look around at the old villas and other constructions on the island, all telling the tale of the eventful history of Helsinki.
Pihlajasaari is accessible only by boat. Regular traffic by JT-Line Oy leaves from the Merisatama and Ruoholahti jetties. The first boat leaves from Merisatama at 9.30 a.m. and the last one usually leaves from Pihlajasaari at 9 p.m.
Links:
Pihlajasaari on the City of Helsinki website Restaurant Pihlajasaari JT-Line Oy
Text: Toni Rönni
Photo: Mika Lappalainen / Helsingin kaupungin aineistopankki
Translation: AAC Global
