On the Road to Lapland? Don’t miss Ii by the Sea – Here Are the Best Nature Destinations in Ii

In commercial collaboration with Visit Ii

Looking for an easy and rewarding way to experience authentic Finnish nature—without long hikes or complicated logistics? The town of Ii, nestled by the sea just north of Oulu, makes for a perfect stop on your road trip, whether you’re heading north to Lapland or returning south. Nature destinations in Ii include peaceful trails, seaside lean-tos, and scenic riverside views—making it a surprisingly rich spot for nature lovers. Conveniently located right along the E75 highway, it’s the ideal place to breathe in fresh air, enjoy a campfire, or take a dip in the river or the sea. And yes, the name of the town really is Ii—not like “Li,” but simply “ee.” Easy to pronounce!

Article & photos by Katja & Taneli Rantakokko

We had heard a lot of praise for the nature destinations in Ii, and when we got the chance to spend a day alone as a couple, we headed north in the afternoon. We began our outing at the magnificent Hiastinhaara nature trail in the river delta of Ii. We were looking forward to enjoying the silence of nature and a slow pace along the duckboards. Needless to say, we were quite excited for the trip!

Hiastinhaara Nature Trail in Ii

• Starting point on the map
• Route length: 2 km/1,2 mi
• Campfire site: A lean-to shelter is located along the Patakari extension (+0.7 km)
• Accessible: No
• By car: Hiastinkuja road. Signposts guide you from highway E4. Google Maps.
• By public transport: The nearest stop is ‘Lemmenkuja’ along the E4 highway, 1.9 km/1.2 mi walking distance to the trailhead. Buses between Oulu and Rovaniemi, for example, take you here.
• Other info: Birdwatching tower, swimming opportunity, sheep in the summer. Best visited in summer and autumn—no winter maintenance, and spring conditions depend on flooding.

The two-kilometre Hiastinhaara nature trail lies by Hiastinlahti Bay, a former floodway of the River Iijoki’s delta, and is one of the most charming nature destinations in Ii. The route is suitable for the whole family, and summer visitors will be delighted to know that sheep graze here during the season! Along the path, there are seven information boards describing the local nature. The trailhead parking area is less than five kilometers from the center of Ii, making it easy to reach even by bike.

We found the parking area spacious, and the small beach by the beautiful riverbank tempted us to take a refreshing dip. The generously sized picnic table would be perfect for enjoying a packed meal while the kids play in the sand.

Clear signposts led us to a gate and a sheep enclosure, marking the start of the trail. I looked for the sheep, but they hadn’t appeared yet. Just past the gate, an extraordinary view of the river delta opened up. Before us lay a natural riverside landscape, dotted with fallen and decaying moss-covered trees and old stumps protruding from the earth.

We started along the duckboards that follow the riverbank, all the while admiring the river delta landscape. Here, the tree canopy dimmed the light, and every shade of green seemed to shift and shimmer as we walked.

I joked to my husband that we could easily be somewhere in the Australian outback, in a swamp. “That looks like the perfect place for an alligator to swim!” We marveled at the ever-changing nature around each bend, the fallen trees, and mossy stumps sprouting new life. Summer had fully blossomed, and the air was incredibly fresh to breathe.

After walking slowly for about ten minutes—snapping nature photos all the way—we saw the first sheep. They were walking toward us on the duckboards! These friendly sheep were absolutely delightful and very vocal characters, and a family with children passing by also got the chance to pet the younger lambs.

“In summer, the sheep of a local shepherd from the village of Northern Ii play an important role in maintaining the landscape, so please make sure to close all gates behind you. Feeding the sheep is prohibited—there is plenty for them to graze on.” -Visit Ii (translated from Finnish)

We left the sheep behind and continued along the path through another gate.

Soon we caught a glimpse of the birdwatching tower and the sea view gradually opening up through the trees. We climbed the sturdy stairs up to the tower. Even I, who usually suffers from a fear of heights, felt fine—thanks to the solid and stable structure of the tower.

From up high, the view stretched far and wide! We were treated to a breathtaking vista over Hiastinlahti Bay, a nationally significant wetland area known for its birdlife. According to what we’d read, it’s possible to spot white-tailed eagles, short-eared owls, ospreys, or waders from the tower. It was especially nice to see that binoculars were available in the tower—a welcome addition, as you don’t always remember to bring everything with you. Suddenly, we heard a sound, and a mallard flew over us, circling toward the shore.

We enjoyed a lovely packed lunch surrounded by sea breezes. A gentle wind carried refreshing scents from blooming plants along the shore and from the bay. Then we returned to the trail, which would next curve through Patakari.

Patakari Route

The Patakari lean-to and bird tower make a great addition to the nature destinations in Ii.

• Lean-to shelter on the map
• Route 700 m (essentially part of the Hiastinhaara trail)
• Overnight stay is allowed at the lean-to shelter

A short loop trail, the Patakari route, branches off from the main Hiastinhaara nature trail. It circles the area near the birdwatching tower and lean-to shelter, at the far end of the river delta. We found the route easy to walk and pleasant, and we definitely recommend exploring it!

Along the Patakari route, we crossed a small bridge. A gentle stream flowed beneath it, its banks dotted with yellow marsh marigolds.

We reached the lean-to shelter shortly after—it was beautifully located near the river. The grill area with a composting toilet was clean, and the whole site was clearly well-maintained.

While enjoying our snack break, we were delighted to watch sheep grazing on the opposite side of the river.

The scent of the campfire mixed with the salty sea air. Here, time seemed to fade away—we just wanted to listen to the sounds of nature, the chirping birds, and the rustling reeds in the shallow water. We had the place all to ourselves.

After the lean-to, we rejoined the Hiastinhaara trail and strolled back to the car at a leisurely pace—taking more sheep photos and enjoying the creaking of the duckboards underfoot. Along the way, we saw lots of blooming Arctic starflowers.

Once again, the weather had been kind to us—not too hot this time. The heavy rain clouds gathering above us only added to the mysterious atmosphere of a place we’re definitely eager to explore again!

Vihkosaari Beach and Swimming Area

• View on the map
• Facilities: Beach, summer kiosk, rentable sauna, winter swimming area (seasonal fee), playground
• By car: Illinsaarentie 18, Ii
• By public transport: Nearest stop ‘Franzen’, 650 meters from the site. Local buses 23 and 27, as well as Oulu–Rovaniemi route buses.
• Read more

Not all nature destinations in Ii are about hiking—you can also just relax on the beach! After our hike in Hiastinlahti, we decided to check out the Vihkosaari beach and swimming area, located less than four kilometers away, just north of the center of Ii.

Vihkosaari’s swimming area in Ii is a versatile and inviting place to swim—and if you rent the sauna trailer (see Bastusauna), you can also enjoy soft and relaxing sauna heat.

Recently renovated, the swimming area was already an eye-catching sight from Highway 4 (E75). It drew us in to explore it up close, and we stopped by to admire the place since, despite our many trips to Ii, we had never managed to visit before. Luckily, we finally made it!

No wonder this is the most popular swimming spot in Ii! We found the area very clean, and the azalea bushes near the dock were blooming beautifully on the slope. The beach had shallow water and a sandy bottom, making it safe for families with children. During our visit, a group of friends and other young people arrived for a swim.

The magnificent dock is in use year-round. In winter, you can swim here with a seasonal pass. The dock features four 25-meter (80 ft) swim lanes, and after a dip, you can warm up in the sauna. There were plenty of sauna-goers even during our visit—and from what we heard, the steam was excellent!

The selfie spot shaped like the letters “Ii” at the end of the dock was a brilliant idea. We goofed around for a bit taking photos of each other and then paused to watch a diver who showed up with his gear. Judging by his metal detector, he was probably searching for something valuable—perhaps a lost ring?

On hot summer days, this beach will surely be a favorite. There’s plenty of space even for a larger crowd. Near the sandy shore, under the shade of the trees, there’s also a playground. Our son wasn’t with us this time, so we’ll save the playground test for the next visit.

There was also an ice cream kiosk on site, although it was closed during our visit.

We decided to postpone our swim for another day, as the air had started to cool and a brisk wind made the waves of the River Iijoki ripple. But we’ll definitely come back here with the whole family—for swimming, sauna, and a picnic—as soon as the weather warms up again. It’s only about a 30-minute drive from Oulu, and buses from Oulu also stop nearby.

Also Experience These Nature Destinations in Ii

The Ii region offers even more nature destinations by the water—all just a short drive away and well worth exploring. Nature destinations in Ii are ideal for travelers heading north to Lapland or returning south, as the town is perfectly situated for a refreshing stop. Here, you can enjoy coastal and river landscapes and tune into the rhythm of the wild, leaving behind the stress and rush of everyday life. How does a scenic shelter on the River Iijoki or a massive suspension bridge sound?

The places listed below not only offer beautiful natural surroundings but also feature a lean-to or wilderness hut, and most include a short nature trail to walk. Perfect destinations for an afternoon walk or a relaxing evening outing! All are family-friendly too, as walking distances are short.

Pirttijärvi Hut by a Marsh Pond

• View on the map
• Parking area: Oijärventie 1099, Ii (at the sports field)
• Walking distance: 1 km/0.6 miles one way

Pirttijärvi is a small, untouched pond surrounded by marshland in the village of Yli-Olhava. It sits quietly in its natural setting, free of buildings or development. Rising from the marsh is a forested island, where you’ll find just one small structure: a cozy wilderness hut nestled in a remote and peaceful landscape. The walk to the hut is about one kilometer each way, part of which follows duckboards. These same boards also lead down to the shore of Pirttijärvi.

The drive from Oulu or Kemi takes about 45 minutes, and from Ii about 30 minutes.

Purusaari and the Suspension Bridge over the River Iijoki, Jakkukylä

• Purusaari parking area on the map
• Loop trail: 2 km/1,2 mi
• Address: Räihänniementie 93–113, Ii
• Lean-to shelter, cable ferry, swimming opportunity

If you’re looking to enjoy the scenic views of the River Iijoki, the Purusaari recreation area in Jakkukylä is the perfect spot. Purusaari is an undeveloped island in the river, with a 2-kilometre scenic trail that includes a lean-to shelter as its highlight. The inviting sandy riverbank is ideal for a refreshing swim in the River Iijoki. One unique feature of the trail is the hand-powered cable ferry used to reach the island and return. The ferry crossing is 20 meters/66 feet long.

While in Jakkukylä village, be sure to admire the charming village scenery—and don’t miss the longest metal-structured suspension bridge for pedestrian and bicycle use in Northern Europe! The bridge (view on map) spans the Iijoki and stretches nearly 200 meters/over 650 feet. It’s open to pedestrians; bicycles must be walked across.

The drive from Oulu takes about 45 minutes, from Kemi around an hour, and from Ii just 15 minutes.

Oolanti Lean-to by the Bay of Bothnia

• View on the map
• Nature trail: 500 m/0.3 mi
• Address: Pohjoisrannantie 759, Ii
• Åland War memorial

Need a good blast of sea breeze after a trip to Lapland? A strong, refreshing wind from the Baltic sea will sweep away the last dry mosquitoes from your scalp! On the Vatunki peninsula, the Oolanti lean-to sits quietly by the shore. There’s also a short nature trail here, perfect for immersing yourself in the wild coastal atmosphere. From this stretch of the Bothnian Bay, your gaze reaches far—no islands to block the view, just the open sea stretching toward the Bothnian Bay National Park.

The drive from Kemi or Ii takes a little over 30 minutes. From Oulu, it’s about an hour.

Sanaskoski Lean-to by the Rapids

• View on the map
• Address: Kuivajoentie 1152, Ii

Located right on the bank of the Sanaskoski rapids, and just off the road, this lean-to is a great spot to relax by a campfire and listen to the rushing water—no long hike or preparation needed. The Sanaskoski rapids are part of the River Kuivajoki, which flows into the Bay of Bothnia just downstream, near the border of Simo.

It takes just over 30 minutes to drive here from Kemi or Ii, and about an hour from Oulu.

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