Kanta-Häme

Tavastia Proper

This region is dotted with charming small towns, idyllic countryside, and stunning lakes.

Iittala

This small town is famous for its glass factory and museum, showcasing the art and craft of Finnish glassblowing.

WELCOME TO Kanta-Häme

Region Overview

Main city

Hämeenlinna

AREA

5,229.27 km²

POPULATION

171,895

Main language

Finnish

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the province's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Hämeenlinna Fortress

Hämeenlinna Fortress, also known as Häme Castle, is a medieval castle located in Hämeenlinna, Finland. The castle was originally built in the 13th century and has since undergone several renovations. Today, it serves as a museum and cultural center, showcasing the history and heritage of the region. The fortress offers guided tours, exhibitions, and hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Visitors can explore the castle's towers, dungeons, and courtyards, and learn about the castle's role in Finnish history, from a medieval fortress to a prison during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Aulanko Nature Reserve

Aulanko Nature Reserve is a popular destination in the Kanta-Häme region of Finland. The reserve spans over 130 hectares of land and includes beautiful lakes, forests, and hiking trails. Visitors can explore the diverse range of flora and fauna that inhabit the reserve, and take in stunning views from the observation tower on top of Aulanko Hill. The reserve also boasts a historic spa hotel, Aulanko Hotel, which was built in the early 20th century and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Whether you are interested in hiking, birdwatching, or simply taking in the natural beauty of the area, Aulanko Nature Reserve is a must-see destination in Kanta-Häme.

Torronsuo National Park

Torronsuo National Park is a unique and ecologically important area in Kanta-Häme, Finland. It is characterized by its vast raised bog, which is the largest in southern Finland. The park provides an important habitat for rare plant and animal species, and visitors can explore its scenic trails and boardwalks to learn about the area's natural and cultural heritage. The park also offers opportunities for birdwatching and photography, with over 120 bird species recorded in the area. The park's visitor center provides information and exhibits about the natural and cultural history of Torronsuo, as well as a small café and gift shop.

Political

Economy and Government

Kanta-Häme is an important economic region in Finland with a diverse economy. The main sectors of the region include industry, services, and agriculture. The region has several large companies operating in various industries such as forest industry, metal industry, and food industry. The largest employers in the region include companies such as Valmet, Patria, and Lassila & Tikanoja.

The region's government is led by the Kanta-Häme Regional Council, which is responsible for regional planning and development, as well as the provision of public services. The council is made up of elected officials from the municipalities within the region.

Kanta-Häme has a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, with various initiatives to support startups and small businesses. The region's innovation ecosystem includes several innovation centers, research institutes, and universities. The Häme University of Applied Sciences, located in Hämeenlinna, is a key institution in the region's innovation ecosystem.

Overall, Kanta-Häme's economy is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, driven by the growth of the region's key industries, as well as the development of new startups and small businesses. The region's government and business leaders are committed to promoting economic growth and development while also ensuring that the region remains an attractive place to live and work.

History

History and Culture

The region of Kanta-Häme has a rich history that dates back to the medieval times. The Häme Castle, built in the 13th century, is the region's most famous landmark and has played a significant role in Finnish history. The castle was a defensive fortress, a prison, and even a granary at one point. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction that offers guided tours and hosts numerous events and exhibitions throughout the year.

Another cultural landmark in Kanta-Häme is the Emil Aaltonen Museum, located in the city of Tampere. The museum houses an extensive collection of Finnish art and artifacts from the 19th and 20th centuries. Visitors can admire the paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, and learn about the life and work of Emil Aaltonen, a prominent Finnish industrialist and philanthropist.

Kanta-Häme is also known for its traditional Finnish festivals and events, such as the Tampere Theater Festival, the Häme Medieval Fair, and the Mustiala Apple Festival. These events showcase the region's cultural heritage and offer visitors a glimpse into Finnish traditions and customs.

In terms of the economy, Kanta-Häme is a hub for manufacturing and technology industries. The city of Hämeenlinna is home to numerous companies in the metal and machinery industries, as well as the Finnish Defense Forces' Armor School. The region also has a strong agriculture sector, with many farms and producers of locally grown and organic food products.

HOTELS

Scandic Aulanko

Located in a historic spa hotel complex in the city of Hämeenlinna, this hotel offers scenic views of the Aulanko Nature Reserve and Lake Vanajavesi. It features modern rooms, a restaurant, a spa, and a wide range of leisure activities.

Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna

Situated in the heart of the city of Lahti, this hotel is a convenient base for exploring the Kanta-Häme region. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, a sauna, and a fitness center.

Solo Sokos Hotel Lahden Seurahuone

This elegant hotel is housed in a historic building in the city of Lahti, close to many shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. It features stylish rooms, a restaurant, a bar, and a sauna.

RESTAURANTS

avintola Wanha Sali

Ra cozy restaurant located in a historic building in Hämeenlinna, serving traditional Finnish cuisine with a modern twist.

Mustion Linna

a fine dining restaurant in the idyllic surroundings of a restored 18th-century manor house in Raasepori, specializing in Nordic and French cuisine.

Lounaskahvila Käkikello

a casual lunch café in the heart of Forssa, offering homemade Finnish dishes with fresh and seasonal ingredients.