Responsibility

Saaristo has been shaped over billions of years and holds unique natural and cultural significance.

Why is responsible travel important?

By focusing on responsible travel, we protect the unique natural environment and rich cultural heritage that make the Finnish archipelago special.

Sustainability benefits both visitors and residents by supporting local communities, safeguarding natural habitats, and helping reduce tourism's environmental impact.

What do we do?

Visit Turku Archipelago (VTA) strengthens the archipelago's image as a sustainable travel destination through marketing efforts and supports local businesses in developing more sustainable practices.

VTA has been awarded the Sustainable Travel Finland (STF) label by Visit Finland. The label is a recognition granted to destinations and businesses committed to long-term development of responsible tourism.

In Saaristo, a number of businesses have received the STF label to underline their sustainable tourism practices.

You can recognize these businesses by the official STF-label displayed on their premises, websites, or marketing materials. Choosing these services supports Saaristo’s nature, culture, and a more sustainable travel economy in the region.

The Sustainable Travel Finland (STF) -label

What can you do?

Let’s unite to preserve the archipelago’s unique beauty, so future generations can experience it just as we do today.

"Take only pictures, leave only footprints."

Help keep the archipelago just as beautiful for the next visitor by leaving no trace of your visit.

Everyone’s Right

In Finland, we have this thing called Everyone’s Right. These rights are a national guideline for everyone moving in Finnish nature, in Saaristo too. They offer everyone the freedom to see and experience the beauty of nature.

However, when exercising these rights, you have the responsibility of not causing harm or disturbance to nature or other people.

You can*	Move on foot, ski, cycle, or ride in areas other than yards or areas designated for special use, such as fields. Stay and camp temporarily in areas where movement is allowed. Pick wild berries, mushrooms, and non-protected plants. Fish with a fishing line and ice fish. Boat and swim in waters and walk on ice.
You cannot	Cause disturbance or harm to landowners or nature. Disturb or damage nests of birds or other animals. Collect moss, lichen, soil, or wood. Drive a vehicle off-road without the landowner's permission. Make an open fire without the landowner's permission. Fish or hunt without the necessary permits. Disturb domestic peace. Keep a dog unleashed in an urban area, on exercise paths, on someone else's property, or a public beach.

You can*

Move on foot, ski, cycle, or ride in areas other than yards or areas designated for special use, such as fields.
Stay and camp temporarily in areas where movement is allowed.
Pick wild berries, mushrooms, and non-protected plants.
Fish with a fishing line and ice fish.
Boat and swim in waters and walk on ice.

You cannot

Cause disturbance or harm to landowners or nature.
Disturb or damage nests of birds or other animals.
Collect moss, lichen, soil, or wood.
Drive a vehicle off-road without the landowner's permission.
Make an open fire without the landowner's permission.
Fish or hunt without the necessary permits.
Disturb domestic peace.
Keep a dog unleashed in an urban area, on exercise paths, on someone else's property, or a public beach.

*Please notice that in nature conservation areas Everyone's rights do not fully apply. For instance collecting plants, berries, and mushrooms, as well as walking dogs and cats (even on a leash) is prohibited to protect wildlife.

Finnish Everyone's Rights