Winter in the Raahe region offers a unique blend of coastal nature, fascinating history, and warm local culture. Enjoy winter activities by skiing or taking a sleigh ride in the Raahe archipelago, visit the Raahe Museum to embark on a journey through the history of this maritime city, admire the works of local artists and artisans in art galleries and boutiques, and warm up with a hot cocoa as you stroll through the idyllic wooden streets of Old Town Raahe.
1. The Raahe Archipelago Beckons Even in Winter
The award-winning Raahe archipelago remains a popular destination in winter. This cherished natural escape is a haven for relaxation and offers a wide range of nature experiences for locals. On the islands of Iso-Kraaseli and Tasku, you can discover unique features of the Arctic archipelago, including the historic "pookis"—unlit lighthouses from the 19th century. Iso-Kraaseli also boasts a historic pilot cabin where pilots once guided ships safely in and out of harbors. Book a night at the pilot cabin for an unforgettable island experience, and don’t miss the island’s charming sauna! Stoke the fire, relax in the warmth, and gaze at the beauty of the winter sky through the sauna's glass ceiling.
The archipelago can be reached in winter by foot, skiing, fat biking, or kicksledding across the ice. For an extra thrill, try snowmobiling, ATV tours, or family sleigh rides in the winter landscape. In early spring, MeriRaahe offers sleigh rides to admire "röyssys"—impressive ice formations created by storms, sometimes reaching several meters high. Always stay vigilant and cautious on the ice: dress warmly, follow marked routes, carry ice picks, and check current ice conditions before heading out! Read more in our article on Skiing and Exploring the Frozen Sea.
2. Old Town Raahe Takes You on a Journey Back in Time
Draped in its winter attire, Old Town Raahe transports you to the 19th century. As one of Finland’s best-preserved wooden house districts, Old Town Raahe offers an authentic glimpse into the past. Plan your walking tour in advance by exploring the stories of Old Town Raahe! On a crisp winter day, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa and cake at the historic Trade House of Lang on the edge of Pekkatori Square.
During the holiday season, a magical atmosphere descends upon the old town as Old Town Raahe's Advent Calendar reveals a new site in the district each day leading up to Christmas, showcasing 24 annually selected places. These festive windows are on display from the beginning of December until Epiphany.
3. Music, Theater and Stand-Up Comedy
Raahe Event House offers a diverse selection of events for everyone, whether you enjoy music, theater, stand-up comedy, or something else entirely. This winter’s lineup includes the Ukrainian Ballet’s classic The Nutcracker (December 17–18), award-winning theater actors Minttu and Ville, known from movies and TV (February 8), stand-up comedy stars Jaakko Saariluoma and André Wickström (February 28), and the powerful voice of Diandra (March 21).
Explore more events here or on Visit Raahe's Facebook event calendar.
4. Maritime Museum Treasures
The history of the Raahe region is a part of our identity, and we are excited to share it with you. Dive into history and let it take you to the grand days of this maritime city. Discover exotic souvenirs brought back by sailors and see Mikael Balt’s 17th-century wooden church sculptures at the Packhouse Museum. At the Crown Granary Museum, you can experience the region’s historical events in a modern way and view the world’s oldest preserved diving suit, known as “The Old Gentleman.” Young visitors can pet a seal lady and try on a diver’s helmet! In December, Sovelius House, the oldest surviving residence in Raahe, opens its doors to showcase a ship captain's home. Join guided tours to experience how a bourgeois family celebrated Christmas!
5. High-Quality Art
Dedicate a day to art and explore the high-quality rotating exhibitions around the Raahe region. Raahe Event House hosts the Raahesali lobby gallery and Gallery Myötätuuli. In the city center, you’ll find Praati, a community space showcasing local artists' rotating exhibitions. Be sure to also visit the exhibitions at the Raahe and Vihanti libraries, as well as the Pyhäjoki library!
6. Accommodation Options and Dining to Suit Many Tastes
Accommodation in the Raahe region offers a blend of modern and historical options, much like the region itself. Are you dreaming of a stay in the nostalgic charm of Old Town Raahe or a trendy city hotel? Or how about a cozy apartment in the heart of town, unique lodging in the winter archipelago, or a peaceful rural retreat surrounded by snow-covered fields?
Our restaurants and cafés serve delicious meals prepared with local ingredients. Many also offer fresh, locally sourced fish! Savor a three-course à la carte dinner, choose from a variety of weekday lunch options, or enjoy coffee and cake in the heart of Old Town Raahe.
7. Ski and Skate Amidst Nature
The Raahe region’s diverse network of nature trails offers the chance to explore a new skiing route each day. Ski trails can even be accessed directly from the outskirts of Raahe’s city center. Some untracked paths remain open throughout winter thanks to regular foot traffic. Winter biking is also popular here, with the Hummastinvaara trail network being a top choice. Many nature trails feature shelters and fire pits, so pack a thermos and some snacks. Discover Raahe's outdoor options here.
The frozen sea extending from Raahe’s center offers a unique skating experience you won’t find everywhere. Remember to exercise caution when venturing onto the ice. Besides the sea, there are several rinks and ice fields around the Raahe region for skating enthusiasts. Skating areas near schools are open for public use in the evenings and on weekends. The Raahe area also has a few indoor ice rinks, allowing you to enjoy skating in any weather. Learn more about skating locations in Raahe, Siikajoki, and Pyhäjoki here.
8. Thrill and Joy in the Toboggan Hills
The Raahe region offers numerous spots where you can enjoy a thrilling ride down the hills with a sled, toboggan, or saucer. Many of these toboggan hills have nearby grilling shelters, so bring along some warm snacks and hot cocoa in your thermos! Explore the best sledding locations in Raahe, Siikajoki, and Pyhäjoki.
9. Dare to Take the Ice Plunge and Warm Up in the Sauna
Are you brave enough to take a dip in the ice-cold water? For a refreshing winter swim, visit Pikkulahti Ice Swimming Spot. You can also take an invigorating dip at the Rautiperä and Hietamaa ice swimming spots in Pyhäjoki and Siikajoki. If the cold water doesn't appeal to you, head to Kuntokeidas Vesipekka for spa-level services. In addition to the swimming pool, Kuntokeidas also features a gym, sports hall, and bowling alley.
After an active day outdoors, finish off with a relaxing sauna! In addition to Kuntokeidas Vesipekka, you can also reserve the sauna cabinet at Raahen Hovi for a group experience. For a more unconventional sauna experience, visit the Captain’s Sauna in the courtyard of Trade House of Lang or the sauna on the island of Iso-Kraaseli in the archipelago.
10. Local Shops Showcase Raahe-Inspired Products
The Raahe region offers unique shopping opportunities where you can experience the creativity of local artisans. The area’s specialty shops feature local products and souvenirs that highlight Raahe region's history and culture. Many items are inspired by Wanha Raahe, the maritime heritage, the world’s oldest preserved diving suit "Old Gentleman," and the 17th-century church carvings by Mikael Balt in the Packhouse Museum. Discover these local treasures at Trade House of Lang, Raahen Taitopaja, Kuutostiimi, Kansalaistalo Konsti, and the Raahe Museum.
For clothing and accessories, visit Casani shoe and clthing store, Lintukoto children’s boutique, or Utua’s bag shop. Be sure to stop by the charming Bear's Book&Paper bookstore as well! And if you need a break from shopping, relax at the Hiusmeri hair salon’s cozy Tirsanurkka Neurosonic-corner.
