Vartius, Border checkpoint and office building in Kuhmo, Finland
Vartius is a border crossing and office building in Kuhmo that handles both road and rail traffic between Finland and Russia. The complex contains separate customs facilities and administrative sections for each type of transportation.
The name comes from 1650 and derives from the Finnish word 'vartio', meaning guard. This reflects the area's history as a defended frontier zone during regional conflicts.
The building represents a crucial meeting point between Finnish and Russian cultures, serving as a gateway for international exchanges and commerce.
The facility is reached via national road 89 and access road 9123, with separate entry and exit lanes available. Visitors should check current border requirements in advance, as these can change.
The site links two separate border stations, with the Russian side known as Lyttä. This dual facility is one of the few places in Europe where road and rail crossings happen side by side.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
