Ikaalinen: Spa Town History, Culture and Kyrösjärvi

Ikaalinen combines a spa town tradition dating back to the 19th century with historic architecture and experiences on Kyrösjärvi. There are also trails near Vatula and the more than ten-kilometre-long Vatulanharju–Ulvaanharju ridge. When planning your holiday, it is worth deciding first what you want to focus on: history, outdoor activities or a trip on the lake?

Spa town traditions and activities on Kyrösjärvi

The Ikaalinen Sauna Festival is held every year on the third weekend of July on the shore of Kyrösjärvi, near Villa Vihta at the Toivolansaari campsite. If you want to plan your trip around the festival, check the dates for the year in question in advance. The M/S Ikaalinen also sails on Kyrösjärvi and serves cruise passengers; its home port is at Ikaalisten Laivaranta. Options include lunch, relaxation, conference, birthday and sauna cruises. The different types of cruises cater to various occasions. For specific plans, check the relevant sailing dates in advance.

Historic streets and architecture

Ikaalinen Wanha Kauppala was founded in 1858 and is considered Finland’s oldest, smallest and most beautiful market town. The Finnish Heritage Agency recognises it as a nationally significant historic cultural environment of the built environment. Some historic buildings have been preserved in the district; avenues lined with stately deciduous trees and parks invite you to stroll through its streets. Explore the character of the old market town as you walk through its streets and public green spaces.

One striking building is Fredrika-Sofia Church: it was inaugurated in 1801, and its bell tower was completed in 1861. The wooden cruciform church has around 1,100 seats. Next to the church, Ikaalinen Local History Museum is housed in a former granary dating from the 1830s. It displays objects from the former parish area of Ikaalinen. Together, the church and museum offer different insights into the architectural and local history.

Trails and landscapes near Vatula

The Vatulanharju–Ulvaanharju ridge is more than ten kilometres long and is nationally significant for its geology and wildlife and plant life. It also includes the Vatulanharju section in Ikaalinen. Near Vatula, there are skiing, mountain biking and hiking trails, with rest stops along the routes. There are several ways to enjoy the outdoors, with rest stops located along the respective trails.

Kristan lenkki, an approximately 1.5-kilometre trail, also runs through the Toivolansaari recreational area. It is suitable year-round for walking, jogging and spending time outdoors. The details about its length and uses provide a practical guide for planning an outing, without indicating how long the walk takes.

The right accommodation for your travel plans

If you are travelling with children, deciding together between a day of outdoor activities and a stronger focus on cultural history can help with planning. When looking for a holiday apartment in Ikaalinen, start by deciding which of the experiences described will shape your stay: a stroll through Wanha Kauppala, trails near Vatula, Kristan lenkki or a cruise on Kyrösjärvi. Then compare the accommodation’s exact location with the activities you have planned. This way, you can choose a base that fits your itinerary and the experiences you want to focus on.

Discover more destinations: Sastamala, Kangasala, Killinkoski, Ruovesi, Suinula, Urjala, Virrat, Pälkäne.

For the full travel overview: Pirkanmaa.