Finnish Nature Center Haltia

Haltia is a nature center in Nuuksio near Espoo that focuses on Finland's national parks and their landscapes through interactive exhibits spread across multiple floors. The building houses educational displays, a restaurant, and information desks that help visitors learn about the country's natural regions.

The center opened in 2013 as Finland's first public building constructed entirely from natural materials, designed by architect Rainer Mahlamäki. Its construction represented a shift toward sustainable building practices and environmental responsibility in how public spaces are made.

The center reflects how Finns connect with their natural world and outdoor practices, making visible the deep relationship between people and forests that shapes daily life here. Walking through the exhibitions shows how nature is woven into Finnish identity and how locals spend their leisure time outdoors.

Visitors can ask staff for hiking route recommendations and rent outdoor gear to explore the surrounding area with proper equipment. The building is easy to navigate and has a restaurant inside, making it convenient to spend several hours here comfortably.

The center showcases all 40 of Finland's national parks through interactive displays, letting visitors explore diverse landscapes from different regions without traveling across the country. You can see habitats ranging from northern bogs to southern lakes and coastal areas all in one visit.

Location: Espoo

Inception: 2013

Architects: Rainer Mahlamäki

Official opening: May 2013

Address: Nuuksiontie 84, 02820 Espoo

Website: https://haltia.com

GPS coordinates: 60.29380,24.55720

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:22