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.

Sustainable Travel Finland, Nordic Swan Ecolabel, and EU Ecolabel logos

Prefer sustainable products and services

You can recognize sustainable products and services by for example the Sustainable Travel Finland (STF) label, the Nordic Swan Ecolabel or the EU Ecolabel.

Sustainable Travel Finland (STF)

Waiter organising a table in a restaurant

Support Saaristo locals

Discover the archipelago’s unique flavors and craftsmanship by choosing services and products that support the local economy.

Two people crossing by bicycle a bridge overlooking a Finnish landscape.

Move responsibly

If possible, utilize public transport, carpooling, or biking when traveling to and in the archipelago.

"Take only pictures, leave only footprints."

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

People sitting on the ground in a Finnish forest

Pack thoughtfully

Bring along only what you’ll need and use reusable items like water bottles and bags.

A person drinking coffee by a rustic wooden table

Enjoy tap water

Finnish tap water is one of the cleanest in the world. Water bottles can be filled from the tap, if not marked otherwise.

Stick to the trails

Enjoy the views along the marked paths and help protect the delicate plants and soil around you. If camping, find a designated spot – it makes a difference.

Two people sitting side-by-side near a camp fire

Enjoy a cozy campfire on designated spots

... but check fire warnings first! During wildfire warnings, fires are off-limits, so be sure to check the local guidelines.

People enjoying the Finnish landscape after sauna

Wash responsibly

When washing up, choose biodegradable soap and wash away from lakes, rivers, or the sea. It helps keep the water fresh and clean.

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