The two islands on this route could not be more different from each other, which is exactly what makes the combination work.
Gullkrona is part of Finland’s largest privately protected marine area, with nearly 5,000 hectares of sea and seabed preserved for future generations. Gullkrona earned its name from a legend: according to local lore, Queen Blanche once threw her golden crown into the sea from the island's rocks, declaring the view the most beautiful she had ever seen. Traveling this route and visiting its hidden gems today, it is easy to understand why.
Image by: Lotta Tamminen
Gullkrona is a small island destination reached by boat from Nauvo. Known for its traditional island setting and open-sea views, Gullkrona offers visitors a guest harbor, restaurant services, accommodation, sauna experiences, and opportunities to explore the surrounding waters by kayak or private boat.
This former fisherman's homestead welcomes visitors with cozy cottages, glamping accommodation, a guest harbor, sauna, and local dining. Spend your days swimming, kayaking, exploring nature trails, or simply enjoying island life at a slower pace.
Kirjais is a small island village in the heart of Saaristo, known for its guest harbor, marina services, restaurant, and welcoming archipelago atmosphere. Located along the Archipelago Trail, it is a popular stop for boaters, cyclists, and travelers exploring the islands.
Brännskär island offers authentic archipelago experiences.
The sheltered Gullkrona harbour is lined with two red boathouses, and a small rope-pulled ferry — where you pull yourself across a narrow cove by hand — is one of those details that stays with you. The Troll Trail winds around the island through old forest and rocky shores; past small trolls made from stone and wood hidden along the path. A small shop and restaurant with outdoor seating on the grass complete the picture. The waters around the island also form Finland’s largest privately protected marine area, with nearly 5,000 hectares protected for future generations. Perfect for travellers who value nature, slow travel and peaceful island experiences.
Brännskär is what happens when real island life and tourism grow together rather than one replacing the other. Two families live here year-round, and the island has built its identity around that — car-free, warm and genuinely welcoming. A waterfront café, a wood-fired sauna steps from the sea, log cabins, glamping tents and cultural events that happen organically through the summer.
©© Lotta Tamminen
Gullkrona is an archipelago hidden gem.
Midsummer poles can be seen around the archipelago.
Brännskär has a beautiful sauna and a great swimming spot.
Accommodation
Food & drink
Outdoor & activities
By ferry:
Two ferries serve this route — M/S Falkö and M/S Cheri, both operated by Finferries and both free of charge. M/S Falkö departs from Kirjais harbour, while M/S Cheri operates from both Kirjais and Pärnäs, though not every day from Pärnäs. No private vehicles are permitted on either island. (Important: Both ferries require advance booking the day before departure. Bookings can be made through the Finferries app — more information at Finferries.)
By public transport:
You can reach Pärnäs harbour in Nagu by bus from Turku — check timetables for the bus at Seutuplus. From Pärnäs, M/S Cheri operates on selected days of the week.
By car:
Nagu is around 1 hours from Turku by car via one short ferry crossing between Pargas and Nagu, about 10 minutes, free of charge and running frequently throughout the day. Night crossings run frequently as well, though departures marked with an asterisk (*) in the timetable require advance notification. Once on Nagu, you can depart from either Kirjais or Pärnäs depending on the day and which ferry you are taking.
A large car park is available at Pärnäs and a smaller one at Kirjais — the Kirjais car park can fill up during peak season in July.