Kokkola

Introducing Kokkola

Not really known as a tourist town, Kokkola (Swedish: Karleby) is a charming place. It was given its town charter in 1620 to stimulate its growth as a port for the tar trade, which flourished in the 17th century. It's been chasing its port ever since; as the land continues to rise, rebounding after the last Ice Age, the sea gets further and further away. At last glimpse, the harbour was over 2km north of town.

As well as a couple of good museums and an attractive centre, Kokkola preserves a beautiful district of old wooden houses and also has plenty of parkland to stroll through down to the harbour. It makes a good stop on your way north or south; the predominantly Finnish-speaking people are tangibly proud of their town, and it feels more welcoming than Jakobstad, for example.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009