Hailuoto, Island municipality in Northern Ostrobothnia, Finland.
Hailuoto is an island municipality in the Bothnian Bay that was formed by land rising from the sea and today offers forests, water features, and farmland. The territory spans hundreds of square kilometers and is sparsely populated, with traditional red houses reflecting its fishing heritage.
The land emerged from the sea roughly 1700 years ago and was later settled by people from Karelia and neighboring regions. These early inhabitants established permanent communities and laid the foundation for the fishing economy that continues today.
The settlement displays traditional Finnish architecture with red fishing cottages scattered across the landscape. Life here still revolves around these heritage buildings and the fishing traditions that define the local character.
A ferry service connects the island to the mainland during daylight hours, with crossings taking about half an hour. The route operates regularly, allowing visitors to cross at several times throughout the day.
The land rises roughly one centimeter each year as it continues to rebound after the ice age. This ongoing geological process gradually expands the island and is one of the most remarkable natural changes happening in the region.
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