6.02.2026 / Sommar2023

Påminne, Southern Finland’s highest ski centre

The snow-covered slopes of Påminne make it the perfect destination for a winter outing on a cold day. Påminne is located in Åminnefors, about 5 km outside Karis, and is run entirely by volunteers. The ski area offers six slopes suitable for both beginners and more experienced skiers. From the top, you’re treated to stunning views in every direction, especially beautiful at sunset.

For the youngest members of the family, there’s a small beginner slope with a safe magic carpet lift where children can learn to ski. Påminne also has a café where you can warm up and enjoy something tasty to eat. Ski and snowboard equipment can also be rented on site.

Påminne laskettelurinne

Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country skiing is not only a fantastic form of exercise, but also a wonderful way to experience nature up close. In Raseborg, there are several illuminated ski trails, making it easy to enjoy skiing even during the darkest hours.

Västerby Ski Centre

In the Västerby outdoor recreation area, located about 5 kilometres outside the centre of Ekenäs, there are several ski trails of varying lengths. In total, there are 12 kilometres of ski trails, 3 kilometres of which are illuminated. Along the route, you can admire beautiful forest areas and lakes and take a break at one of the grilling areas.

Address: Västerbyvägen 41, 10620 Högbacka

Oxberget Ski Centre

In Svartå, you can enjoy skiing at the Oxberget Ski Centre. There are a total of 7 km of ski trails, 4.5 km of which are illuminated. There is also a griling area where you can stop for a break and grill something tasty.

Address: Hållsnäsvägen 239, 10360 Svartå

Other Skiing and Exercise Trails

In addition to these trails, there are many other shorter trails in Raseborg. Illuminated ski trails can be found, for example, in Tallmo, Karis (3 km), Dragsvik exercise trail (2.7 km) and Karis sports park (2.6 km).

See the locations and current status of the ski trails here.

Winter Magic on the Ice

Snowy winters and frozen seas are a true joy for anyone who loves being outdoors. Cross-country skiing, cycling, or walking on the ice are fun ways to enjoy the season. However it’s important to be aware of the risks on the ice and to equip yourself properly.

Read more about winter activities in Raseborg here.


2.02.2026 / Sommar2023

On Valentine’s Day, or Friendship Day as we call it in Swedish-speaking Finland, it’s important to show love and consideration to those closest to you. Perhaps you want to take your newfound love out on a date, spoil your partner, or simply show appreciation for friends and family? In Raseborg’s diverse and idyllic small-town setting, you’ll find everything you need to make the day extra special. Here are our top tips!

Stay Overnight

Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday this year – perfect for treating yourself and your partner to a romantic hotel night. Stay in a historic atmosphere at Billnäsin Ruukki Hotel or the unique boutique hotel Billnäs Gård. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the donkeys that live in the hotel’s donkey stable. If you’re in the historic Fiskars Village, you can spend the night at the stylish hotel The Torby, located in the old Finsmedjan where the workers once forged iron.

For an extra touch of luxury, you can book a night at one of Finland’s most treasured manor houses, Svartå Manor. The castle is beautifully nestled in the lush surroundings of the historic Svartå River. Don’t miss the guided tour (in Finnish) on February 14, themed “Romantic Svartå – Love Stories from Svartå Manor.” If you are in Ekenäs, it’s worth staying at one of the charming accommodations like Hotel Sea Front or Motel Marine. At Motel Marine, you can book the sauna for a low price or relax in the outdoor hot tub under the stars.

At all of these hotels, you can also enjoy a rich breakfast – is there a better way to start the day?

Yummy Moments

A restaurant visit is a classic choice for Valentine’s Day, but where should you go? In Raseborg, you’ll find a wide range of restaurants with something for every taste. Ekta Gastropub in Ekenäs offers a varied menu and even has its own brewery, serving delicious beer and cider. For a meal by the sea, head to the newly opened restaurant Fyren at Ekenäs’ picturesque harbour, where you can enjoy classic à la carte dishes. If you’re looking for something cosy and intimate, the small family-run restaurant Ribs offers a warm atmosphere and delicious food prepared using traditional French techniques. And for a more laid-back evening, Pub Santa Fe is a great choice, with Tex-Mex and grilled dishes and great drinks.

Brunch or fine dining? At Billnäs Bruk Restaurant, you can celebrate Valentine’s Day with a delicious brunch or a romantic dinner in a unique and historic setting. Slottskrogen at Svartå Manor offers a specially designed Valentine’s Day menu by candlelight and a crackling fire. Be sure to book a table in advance to guarantee your spot. In Fiskars, Kuparipaja is an excellent choice, and in Karis there is the family-run Restaurant KW , a local favorite.

Activities

Raseborg offers a wealth of activities to add a special touch to your Valentine’s Day. Start the day by awakening mind and body with a refreshing winter swim, followed by a visit to the sauna. In Raseborg, you can rent a sauna and enjoy a winter bath at locations like Svartå and the meeting and event hotel Calliola in Snappertuna. If you prefer more relaxed activities, a visit to Finland’s oldest cinema Bio Forum or Bio Pallas could be the perfect way to spend time together.

For those interested in delving into culture and history, there are several exciting options. Explore Chappe, Raseborg’s museum, or take a stroll through the Old Town in Ekenäs. A visit to the historic villages Billnäs and Fiskars is also a must. In Fiskars, you can join a guided tour of the drink production process at the Fiskars Knife Factory. Taste beverages from all the brands produced at their facility: Fiskars Brewery, Ägräs Distillery, Noita Winery, and Suomenlinna Brewery. Fiskars Village also hosts a Friendship Weekend with a varied programme, including workshops, an open house at the fire station where you can see the Stutz fire truck, and film screenings.

Looking for a bit more action? Challenge each other to a game of bowling or test your teamwork in an escape room (in Swedish). For a creative twist to the day, try glassblowing or join a chocolate-making class where you can make delicious treats together.

Don’t miss the stunning nature during your visit to Raseborg. Spend quality time with a refreshing winter walk in areas like Västerby Outdoor Area, Gumnäs Trail, or Forest Trail Rissla. Pack some tasty food to grill at one of the barbecue spots along the trails and finish the day under the starry sky.

We hope our tips have inspired you for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day in our beautiful Raseborg!



27.01.2026 / Sommar2023

The word sauna is the most internationally recognized Finnish word. With around 3.2 million saunas in the country, one can say that the sauna is a deeply rooted tradition in Finland. This means that all Finns could bathe in saunas simultaneously if they wished. Impressive, isn’t it?

Sauna bathing is a significant part of Finnish culture and is often something foreign visitors look forward to experiencing when they come to Finland. In Raseborg, there is a wide range of saunas available for private booking, offering visitors an authentic Finnish sauna experience.

Traditional Saunas

Kopparö Recreation Area – Located on the beautiful and tranquil island of Skärlandet in the Raseborg archipelago, Kopparö Recreation Area is easily accessible by ferry from Ekenäs. Here, you can enjoy the sauna all year round, both during public sauna sessions and private bookings. Be sure to explore the scenic trail that winds across the island, with several grill spots where you can stop to enjoy your own packed meal.

Motel Marine – offers affordable and comfortable accommodation right in the heart of Ekenäs. Their popular sauna is open to both overnight guests and outside visitors. The sauna accommodates around 10 people and can be booked at the reception for 8€ per person per hour. Outside visitors also pay a heating fee of 18€. For a touch of extra luxury, you can book the motel’s outdoor hot tub and enjoy the fresh air between sauna sessions.

Malmbacka – Nestled in the beautiful forests of Snappertuna, you’ll find the Malmbacka charcoal cabin. Up to six people can enjoy the wood-fired sauna, Anna. At Malmbacka you’ll get to experience the authentic sauna experience when chopping the firewood and heating up the stove yourself. While cooling off on the sauna steps, you might even catch a glimpse of moose or deer in the surrounding forest.

Raseborg Spa & Resort – Located by Kvarnträsket in Antby, just a few kilometers outside Karis, Raseborg Spa & Resort offers a spacious sauna and a large swimming pool in its spa area. The sauna and pool are available to both hotel guests and non-staying visitors. The sauna and pool area can also be booked for private use, and during private bookings, the bar remains open for an extra enjoyable experience.

Torparrian – In the scenic village of Tenala, Torparrian offers a smoke sauna that’s perfect for those seeking a truly special sauna experience. Unlike the drier heat of a traditional sauna, the warmth of a smoke sauna is softer and more enveloping. Next to the smoke sauna, you’ll also find a so-called wilderness bath, where you can sit back and relax under the open sky in 37-degree water. The smoke sauna can accommodate around 20 bathers.

Billnäs Bruksboden – The former village shop at Billnäs Ironworks, Bruksboden, has been given new life as a sauna and a venue for conferences or private events. The sauna features two changing rooms and can accommodate up to ten people at a time. From the sauna, you can enjoy views of the riverbank landscape along the Svartå River and the historic ironworks.

Ekenäs Public Pool – Here you can combine swimming or water aerobics in the pools with a relaxing visit to the sauna. The facility offers two traditional saunas and two steam saunas, one for men and one for women

Sauna + Cold Swimming

If you want to enjoy sauna bathing and winter swimming like a local, head to Stallörens badinrättning in Ekenäs. Warm up in the sauna and take a refreshing dip while enjoying beautiful views of Knipan Beach. The sauna is open during the winter swimming season (October 1–April 30). By paying a seasonal fee, you’ll have access to the sauna and changing facilities throughout the entire period. The fee is paid in Ekenäs Public Pool.

The meeting and event hotel Calliola offers several unique saunas for different occasions and groups of different sizes. Calliola is located in the stunning archipelago of Snappertuna, where you can enjoy cold-water swimming in winter and cool off in summer. Here, you can relax in the spacious two-storey sauna Merilöyly with a sea terrace, or choose one of the charming retro-style beach saunas, Isolöyly and Pikkulöyly.

For those looking to enjoy a sauna in a historic setting, the grand Svartå Manor is an excellent choice. The Orangery, a former greenhouse, now serves as the sauna building. It features two separate saunas, one for six people and another for twelve. Between sessions, you can relax in the charming lounge area. From the Orangery, it’s just a short walk to the pier, where you can take a refreshing dip in the Svartå River.


23.12.2025 / Martina Rosenqvist

Snowy Activities

When the ground is covered in snow, it’s lovely to spend time outdoors in the crisp winter air and get rosy cheeks. Raseborg offers a wide range of winter outdoor activities. Påminne Ski Centre, southern Finland’s highest alpine slope, is certainly many people’s favorite. Påminne offers a variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders, as well as a small hill for sledding. You can also rent equipment if you don’t have your own, and take a break at the ski centre’s café with a warm drink or a bite to eat.

For those who prefer cross-country skiing, there are ski tracks with different levels and lengths at many different locations in Raseborg, among others Västerby close to Ekenäs and Oxberget ski center in Svartå. More info can be found here: Skidspår i Raseborg – ski trails in Raseborg.

Ice skating is a very popular winter activity in Raseborg. It’s possible to skate near most schools, but also at the Ekenäs market field (beside the Flemingsgatan -street, by the public indoor pool), and Karis sports field. More information on ice hockey rinks and ice rinks in Raseborg here.

In Aktia Ishall in Karis you can skate indoors free of charge on Fridays and Saturdays! On Fridays between 15:30-17:00 you can skate with a hockey stick, and on Saturdays between 13:30 and 15:30 you can skate without. NOTE! The time tables might change – have a look at the calendar for more information.

Snow-free activities

No snow? No problem in Raseborg. There’s still plenty to do! Why not take a winter hiking trip? Enjoy the beautiful nature in Ramsholmen forest park in Ekenäs or the unique nature in the Dagmar Park with its famous spring. If you are looking for a longer walk, we recommend Rissla Forest Trail in Fiskars or The Enchanted Forest Trail in Västerby recreation area (both about 5-6 kilometres).

If you prefer to walk in an urban environment, the Old town of Ekenäs and Fiskars Village are excellent destinations. One of Finland’s most valuable manors, Svartå Manor, is an impressive attraction. Visitors are always welcome to stroll and enjoy the beautiful castle park, even if the castle happens to be closed.

Indoor activities

In addition to all the great opportunities for outdoor activities, there are also a lot of different types of indoor activities. Ekenäs indoor swimming pool has a large pool, rehabilitation pool, a hot tub and a children’s pool with a slide and of course, saunas. If you like bowling, you can visit Ekenäs Bowling Alley with its eight courses. You can also play tennis and padel indoors in the center of Ekenäs. There is also an indoor padel court in Karis. The brand-new Keiv Climbing Center in Ekenäs is set to open at the beginning of January 2026!

If you want to do something completely different, we have two lovely cinemas. The latest movies are often shown here. In Karis you will find Bio Pallas and in Ekenäs Bio Forum.

Fiskars Village is also an excellent destination for those who like to stroll around in small shops and admire beautiful exhibitions. In Raseborg there are also several flea markets and second hand shops, where you can find affordable, excellent books, furniture, clothing and other useful things.

When you feel hungry, there is a nice selection of cosy cafés, lunch places and restaurants where you can taste local produce. Make sure to check the winter opening hours before going.

For those who like art, there are numerous museums and galleries to experience. Visit for example the KWUM ceramics museum in Fiskars Village, Chappe and Villa Skeppet in Ekenäs that is designed by Alvar Aalto. At Fokushuset in Karis, you can also explore works by various artists at Gallery Promenad and Gallery Centrum. Be sure to check out Raseborg Museum’s new Helene Schjerfbeck exhibition, opening in spring 2026!

Tips of current events can be found in Raseborg’s event calendar.


21.12.2025 / visitraseborg

Helene Schjerfbeck was very fond of the sea, walks in the Old Town and excursions to the Ramsholmen forest park area. She spent much of her time in Skepparträdgården park painting and watching people. Helene did, in fact, paint a lot of portraits of ordinary people with interesting facial features in Ekenäs. Nowadays the memorial The Finnish Untuned Bell, which children like to ring, is set into the park. It was created as a permanent monument to celebrate the artist’s life’s work.

Ekenäs, the hometown

Helene Schjerfbeck lived in several locations in Finland and abroad. The artist spent the summers 1918-1920 in Ekenäs, and lived permanently in the town during years 1925-1941. She chose to live in Ekenäs because she wanted to live close to the sea. Her first apartment was in the old Juslin house on Långgatan (Raseborgsvägen 2). The house was demolished a long time ago, but there is now a memorial and Helene Schjerfbeck Square. For some time Helene also lived in the yellow house next to the Fish Market in the Ekenäs Old Town as the tenant of Sigfrid Nyberg. This house still stands.

Dramatized walks with Helene Schjerfbeck 

Dramatized walks are held in Ekenäs where Helene herself will guide you through the interesting phases of her own life and the history of Ekenäs. She will show you the parks and buildings that she was inspired by and tells about her friends that modelled in her portraits. For bookings, please contact cafeschjerfbeck@gmail.com.

In addition to the dramatized walk, groups can book a guide to the Schjerfbeck exhibition in Raseborg Museum, a letter read, or painting with the artist. The museum’s permanent exhibition presents Helene’s works and items that belonged to her.


13.10.2025 / Tanya Nyblom

Whether you enjoy outdoors or indoors, the autumn holidays in Raseborg offer something for everyone. The diverse range of nature trails invites you to go and discover the nature and its cones, rocks and trees. Explore the city’s exciting history in the old iron works or Ekenäs old town. Or enjoy a cozy fairy tale in one of the city’s six libraries.

Here are three reasons to visit Raseborg during the autumn holidays.

1. A wide range of activities

As the largest city in Uusimaa province, by area, Raseborg is both diverse and rich in activities. Here you can find for example a wide range of nature trails with the mix of nature, culture and history. Pack a tasty snack and enjoy a break in the middle of nature. In Västerby outdoor recreation area, Kopparö, Gumnäs as well as at some other outdoor destinations, there is the possibility of a barbecue area.

Do not forget geocaching either – Raseborg is an excellent place for this and the search for hiding places makes wandering in nature guaranteed to be more exciting.

On October 18, children aged 5–10 are invited to a Halloween fun and craft session at Ramsholmen (take the first path on the right). From 1–3 PM, they can enjoy nature-based activities and simple crafts. Activities will take place weather permitting.

Curious to see the best view of Ekenäs? Pick up the key to the old water tower from Ekenäs library, climb 164 steps and admire the magical view!

If you enjoy riding a bike, there are several nice bike routes that takes you between villages and historical sites. For the more adventurous, Fiskars Village offers excellent mountain bike routes in beautiful surroundings. The city bikes are also available until the end of the month.

For the smaller ones in the family, there is a wide range of different playgrounds, so go and discover the city’s 36 playgrounds. Among the children’s favourites Fiskars playground and the new adventure course at Pumpviken in Karis. The Lion Park in Ekenäs will be reopening in October after renovations.

When the evening darkness falls and the autumn chill sets in, it’s the perfect time to move your activities indoors. Raseborg has a wide range of activities to choose from – for example, you can visit the public swimming pool, watch a film at one of the two cinemas, try bowling or play padel. Aktia ice hall in Karis also organises public ice skating on Fridays and Saturdays from 3th October!

The public pool in Ekenäs hosts Friday Fun every Friday for children who can swim, from 5 to 7 PM. During these two hours, kids can enjoy the pool’s water toys and other equipment in lanes 4–6. On Thursday, 16 October, there will be games and activities for children aged 6 and older at Ekenäs sports hall, Flemingsgatan 19.

2. Exciting history

Although the city of Raseborg is only 15 years old, its districts and villages hold a much older history than that. In the old iron works in Svartå, Billnäs and Fiskars, you can learn more about the history behind the old iron mills. In order for the old iron mills to once function, coal was produced in the forests of Snappertuna. In the coal village of Malmbacka, you can learn about the history behind coal production. Here you can also relax in a real wood-fired sauna.

In the old town of Ekenäs, you can walk along the narrow streets, admire the old wooden houses and imagine how the life in the city used to be. You get clues from the street names in the old town, which reveals how the townspeople made their living. Here, the streets have existed in the same place since the 16th century. The oldest remaining houses are from the 18th–19th centuries.

Learn more about Raseborg and book a talented guide with you. Choose your field of interest and learn more about the old iron works, the old city of Ekenäs or perhaps one of the beautiful natural areas.

3. Diverse cultural life and locally produced delicacies

Let your imagination and creativity flow during the autumn holidays! Try glassblowing in Fiskars or book a chocolate class in Billnäs. Or immerse yourself in the world of fairy tales in one of the city’s six libraries. The city’s library offers books in at least 28 different languages. For film enthusiasts, there are also two cosy cinemas in Raseborg: Bio Pallas in Karis and Bio Forum in Ekenäs.

Combine history and culture and visit interesting museums. Learn about how the residents of Fiskars lived in the past at Fiskars Museum, or admire the brand-new art exhibition at Chappe Art Museum. Admission to both museums is free for visitors under 18.

Treat yourself with something delicious and fill your stomach with local delicacies! Visit cosy cafes, versatile restaurants and traditional markets during your visit. In Raseborg there is also a dense network of local food lovers, producers and organic farms.

Smaller and larger events are also organized around the city, so take a look at Raseborgs event guide to see what is happening during your visit. The event calendar is continuously updated.

Bonus reasons

• Raseborg is located halfway between Helsinki and Turku, so it is easy to travel to Raseborg by public transport as well as by car.

• Raseborg offers a diverse range of accommodation, from cottages to castles and hotels, so extend your stay and discover all the fun that can be found here.

• Raseborg is a bilingual city, with Swedish as the majority language, so during your visit you can practice both local languages ​​- if you want.


17.09.2025 / Sommar2023

Sometimes it feels good to step away from daily life and head out into nature. In Raseborg, there are plenty of ways to do just that. Take a deep breath, set your own pace, and soak in the beauty of the outdoors. Many of our hiking trails are equipped with grilling areas, making it easy to combine your trip with a break by an open fire. Whether you prefer a spot by the water, at the forest’s edge, or near your car, there’s something here for you.

Before lighting up your fire, please check if there are any current wildfire warnings in the area. Open fires, including campfires and disposable grills are strictly prohibited during wildfire warnings, even at designated grilling areas.

Here are a few examples of our favourite grilling areas in Raseborg:

Kopparö

If you’re longing for the archipelago, Kopparö is a great choice. After a short ride on the Skåldö ferry, you reach a 9 km nature trail with three well-equipped grill areas. At the start of the nature trail, you need to cross a bridge that is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.

There are plenty of trees and brushwood on the ground around the barbecue areas that can be used to make a fire. Fires are only permitted in the covered barbecue areas at the rest stops. Each barbecue area has tables and outdoor toilets.

Map of the Kopparö nature trail available here.
Address: Fåfängövägen 57, 10600 Raseborg

Västerby

The Västerby Outdoor Recreation Centre offers scenic trails, peaceful forest and several grill spots, some with lake views, others nestled among the trees. The area covers 1,500 hectares and serves as a meeting place for exercisers, skiers and nature lovers. You’ll also find shelters, dry toilets, and a grill hut with dry firewood. Visiting Västerby is perfect if you want to make your outing a little more special.

The Västerby outdoor recreation area is located on Tenalavägen (road 52), approximately 5 kilometres from the centre of Ekenäs.

A map of Västerby Outdoor Recreation Centre can be found here.

Gumnäs

The Gumnäs outdoor trail in Pojo is 3.8 kilometres long and winds through varied natural surroundings to a barbecue hut at the tip of the peninsula. The new barbecue hut, built by Pojo kyrkoby byförening rf in autumn 2024, provides a pleasant spot to take a break and eat your packed lunch. The location is peaceful and atmospheric, next to a small beach with cliffs where you can sit down and look out over the water. Visitors are kindly asked to bring their own firewood for the grilling hut.

More information and map available here.
Address: start next to the Pojo dog park by Gamla Åbovägen, 10420 Pojo

Rissla Forest Trail

The 4 km Rissla forest trail starts at the parking area in Fiskars and winds through quiet woods to a rest area where fires are permitted. Along the nature trail, you will also pass several places of historical interest, such as the Rissla dam and the Rissla hydroelectric power plant. The power plant was built in 1899 due to Fiskars Village’s increased need for electricity. It is a good idea to bring your own firewood to the barbecue area.

More info and a map available here.
Address: Långdalsvägen 6, 10470 Raseborg

Korpudden

Along the short nature trail at Korpudden, Svartå, there are two barbecue areas: a covered grill and a simpler fire pit. The trail is 1.5 kilometres long and winds between impressive cliffs and the water to Lojosjön. Along the path, you’ll reach a viewpoint that offers a magnificent view over the lake. The beautiful and peaceful scenery has a calming effect, even on the most restless mind. There is also an outdoor toilet available.

Read more about Korpudden here.
Address: Hållsnäsvägen 519

Malmbacka

Malmbacka is a cultural-historical private area located in the countryside in Snappertuna. Here you can barbecue under the open sky or in the barbecue hut Thelma. You take care of the barbecue yourself by chopping wood and lighting the fire. Primitive cooking equipment such as pots, pans, etc. can be borrowed from the barbecue hut. Charcoal can be purchased if needed. Advance booking is required and costs 10€ per adult for two hours.

Address: Norrbyvägen 45, 10600 Snappertuna

Lagmans Beach

Lagmans Beach and Camping is located in Snappertuna and is maintained by the city of Raseborg. On warm summer days, you can take a dip in the sea, and on crisp autumn evenings, sit under the barbecue shelter to enjoy your packed lunch and the peaceful scenery. The barbecue shelter is located right next to the parking lot. Visitors need to bring their own firewood or charcoal. There is also an outdoor toilet on the site.

Address: Våruddsvägen 217, 10710 Raseborg

Please remember to respect nature and fellow visitors by keeping areas clean and tidy. Want more tips on hiking destinations in Raseborg? Check them out here.


30.08.2025 / Sommar2023

Ekenäs Savings Bank

In the middle of Ekenäs city center in Raseborg you can find Ekecenter, a marble and brick building designed by Alvar Aalto for Ekenäs Savings Bank. Aalto got a free rein to design the building and its interiors. The construction work began in the summer of 1967, and the building was completed already that same fall. The bank moved in and the Piazza restaurant, also designed by Aalto, opened in the second floor of the building. The restaurant is open for lunch and it also offers catering services. Inspired by Aalto, the Piazza Restaurant also offers a special Bank Manager’s menu, which includes a brief introduction to the fascinating history of the building.

Villa Skeppet

Alvar Aalto, picture taken by Göran Schildt.

Villa Skeppet is another building representing the characteristic style of Alvar Aalto. The history of the building originates from the friendship of Alvar Aalto and the author Göran Schildt. Aalto and Schildt met for the first time already while studying, but they did not become close friends until many years later. They were both interested in e.g. Mediterranean culture and made several trips together.

When Göran Schildt lost his home, Villa Itaka in Helsinki, the architect friend offered to design a new home for Schildt. Schildt only had to choose a suitable lot. He chose a quiet place close to nature in his wife Christine’s hometown Ekenäs. Aalto designed Villa Skeppet as a gift for the couple. The planning and construction of the villa was done in 1969-70, the building being the last home Aalto designed. After Aalto’s death in 1976, Göran Schildt wrote a multipart biography of his good friend.

In Villa Skeppet Alvar Aalto carried out many of the distinctive ideas and design solutions that he had developed over the years. Aalto was inspired by Göran Schildt’s great passion for sailing and Mediterranean culture and made this part of Villa Skeppet’s design. The most outstanding feature of the building is the sail-like roof, which connects the two different parts of the building. The living room is characterized by large windows overlooking the beautiful garden and the sea, as well as by an open fireplace sculptured by Aalto himself.

In 2018, Villa Skeppet was donated to the Christine and Göran Schildt Foundation. The foundation opened the villa for the public in December 2020.

Visiting the buildings

The Ekenäs Savings Bank building can be viewed at Stationsvägen 6, 10600 Raseborg. The entrance of Restaurant Piazza is located in the passage between Ystadsgatan and Stationsvägen.

Villa Skeppet can be admired from the outside at Snäcksundsvägen 8, 10600 Raseborg. You can visit the house by booking a guided tour here. Please note that it is not allowed to enter the property.

Alvar Aalto Route

The Alvar Aalto Route connects all sites designed by Alvar Aalto’s architectural office into a fascinating cultural travel route across Europe. Together with the Ekenäs Savings Bank building and Villa Skeppet, Raseborg can proudly be part of the route. In addition to destinations in Finland, you can visit Aalto’s masterpieces in countries such as Estonia, Germany, France, and Italy.

Read more about Alvar Aalto and his work at visit.alvaraalto.fi.


29.08.2025 / Martina Rosenqvist

Culture thrives in Raseborg, and the amount of our cultural events rises every year. Here are a few tips on Raseborg’s annual cultural events. Remember to check our events calendar  for the most recent and relevant updates on all kinds of cultural events!

Art: crafts, design and exhibitions

Many artists have settled in Raseborg for its inspiring and peaceful environment. Their works and products can be bought in various neighbourhoods and villages, as well as in their own workshops and studios. But be sure to check opening times or call before you visit – the artists sometimes go out in search of inspiration. All sorts of products are available, including fabrics and clothing, jewellery, bags, rugs, scented candles, etc. For more information and contact details, see the crafts -category.

Handicrafts, Finnish design products, quality exhibitions and a wide range of events at Fiskars Village – fiskarsvillage.fi. Fiskars has a number of craft boutiques and is nationally known as a home for craftsmen and artists.

Handicrafts and sewing in Ekenäs e.g. Liia Jewellery and Hennas sewing studio. Tammisaari is home to a number of artists and designers whose products can be bought in Fiskars and in some cases from online shops. On the town’s promenade you can also find, for example, Werner Framing and Gallery, which makes handcrafted picture frames.

The museums and galleries in Raseborg are worth exploring. While in Ekenäs, be sure to visit Chappe and Villa Skeppet.

The galleries Culturecenter Fokus in Karjaa and the galleries Perspektiivi, Lilla Galleriet and Elverket in Tammisaari.

Charming retro-style movie theaters Bio Forum in Ekenäs and Bio Pallas in Karisbioforum.fi, biopallas.com.

Events, festivals and markets

Ekenäs Film Festival in March offers high quality Nordic films at Bio Forum and Culture House Karelia.

The super-popular Antiques Days at both Fiskars and Billnäs ruuks attract thousands of visitors in July. The ruuks are located close to each other, so you can visit both events to make some great finds. See more about Fiskars Antique Days and Billnäs Heritage and Antique Days.

Diverse cultural houses, Kulttuuritalo Karelia in Ekenäs, and Tryckeriteatern Theatre in Karis. kulturhusetkarelia.fi, tryckeriteatern.org.

Swedish-speaking Raseborgs Sommarteater – language immersion in the form of musicals in the ruins of Raseborg Castle for 50 years – raseborg.org.

Summer theatres Teatteri Valimo in Fiskars and Teatteri Provinssi in Svartå.

The artist Helene Schjerfbeck’s anniversary will be celebrated with a variety of events: schjerfbecksallskapet.fi/en.

Ekenä’s classical summer concerts have already established a firm place in Raseborg’s summer music programme. The themes of the concerts change every year. The festival’s artistic director Jukka-Pekka Saraste and the Finnish Chamber Orchestra offer an enjoyable musical experience with high-quality concerts.

Open studios throughout Raseborg at Konstrundan: you can visit the artists’ studios and get to know their works and working methods.

The Karis Book Bazaar is an annual literary event. The programme includes pop-up events, poetry, interviews with authors, etc. 

Swedish-language literary festival Bokkalaset in Ekenäs: interesting people, interviews, children’s programme, workshops, evenings, etc. The event offers a great language and cultural experience in one package.

The traditional Ekenäs Autumn Market attracts around 25 000 visitors every year, making it one of the largest market events in Finland. The market has been held for over 280 years and offers delicacies, two carnivals, handicrafts and a fun programme for the whole family. The event takes place at the Tammisaari market square, right next to the swimming pool.

For food lovers, ,Raseborg’s second super event, the Slow Food Festival at Fiskars Village, is on the agenda. Launched by the Slowfood Västnyland association, the big event gathers local food lovers for a two-day event every year in early October. The event features a wide range of high-quality local and artisan products and a varied programme. 


28.08.2025 / Martina Rosenqvist

We offer a lot of different and interesting locations to host your dream wedding, business event or party in Raseborg. Down below are listed some of our brightest pearls.

Svartå, Raseborg

Svartå Manor is a party place with a capital P. They offer you the chance to celebrate your wedding, birthday or other special day in a beautiful and unique setting. The award-winning Slottskrogen restaurant produces high quality, locally produced delicacies served in the newly restored party pavilion or one of the manor’s other venues. If you like the idea of waking up in the same gorgeous surroundings you can stay overnight at the manor’s hotel or stylishly renovated farmhouses.

Snappertuna, Raseborg

The Calliola Conference and Event Centre is located right on the sea in Snappertuna and offers quality facilities and services.  The relaxed, but stylish meeting and banquet rooms are complimented by a sauna, terraces, and homely archipelago-style accommodation in beach villas and apartments. Calliola’s kitchen serves wonderful seasonal local produce.

Fiskars, Raseborg

Fiskars is a unique destination where crafts, arts and design meet nature, history and architecture. Here, at the birthplace of the Fiskars company, you will find experiences for all the senses. Hold a celebration, meeting or conference at the village’s beautiful and varied facilities. Combine your event with, for example, an award-winning round of tastings at local breweries and the distillery, or a glass-blowing workshop.  

Åminne, Raseborg

The Åminne Gård restaurant at Nordcenter Golf & Country Club serves good food in a stately manor house environment. With pleasant views over the golf course and Pojo bay. Nordcenter is a multi-functional leisure centre where you and your guests can combine a meeting or party with outdoor activities including golf, tennis or frisbee golf. Accommodation in the form of a cozy B&B with a sauna and gym is available. If you like, explore local history and take a trip to nearby Billnäs and Fiskars.

Pojo, Raseborg

There are many more event venues in Raseborg. For one who wants to arrange an event with something extra we recommend you to throw a party at Raseborg Castle. Check out Meetings and parties and familiarize yourself with cozy townhouses, attractive hotels and pleasant seaside resorts.

Party or meeting food

When organizing a party or arranging a team building weekend you definitely want to serve something delicious to eat. Raseborg has a wide supply of restaurants, cafés and catering so there’s something for every taste. You can also shop local food like fresh fish, new potatoes and flavorful vegetables, from one of the different market places in the city.

For drinking you can offer something from the local breweries. Fiskarsin Panimo brew tasty beer and from Ekta Bryggeri you get gutsy cider.

Before the party

Would you like to get your nails painted, your hair in a fancy updo or your eyebrows colored? If you’re about to go on a wedding or other fancy party, Raseborg offers a lot of beauty services for you. If you want to cheer up the atmosphere between meetings you can book a sweaty class at one of the gyms or disc golf in the nature. It’s also possible to try lasertag in Raseborg. You can find all options under activites on our website. Enjoy your unforgettable parties and meetings in Raseborg!