Attractions and Places To See around Janakkala - Top 20

Janakkala is rich in history. You can visit the medieval Church of Saint Lawrence, the last of its kind in the Häme region, located within the Laurinmäki Nature and Culture Area. Another significant historical site is Graniittilinna Castle Amphitheater, built in 1886/1887 in the style of a medieval castle. The area also features Hakoisten Castle Hill, once home to a medieval castle, offering excellent views and evidence of Iron Age habitation.

For scenic views, explore Hakoisten Castle Hill, which provides panoramic vistas of Janakkala Church and Lake Kernaala. Haukankallio Cliff in Leppäkoski is another high point offering great views. The region's landscape is also characterized by extensive longitudinal ridges formed during the Ice Age, providing scenic viewpoints over the countryside and villages.

Yes, Janakkala offers several nature trails. The Laurinmäki Nature and Culture Area has trails, including a popular 2km route from the Crofter's Museum that leads to Määkymäki with spectacular views. You can also explore the forested hiking area around Lake Mallinkaistenjärvi, which features trails along the lakeshore and views of steep rocks like Valskerinkallio. For more extensive routes, consider the running trails around Janakkala, which include routes like the Tervahaudanmäki loop.

Janakkala's numerous lakes and rivers, such as Vanajavesi, Toivanjoki, Puujoki, and Hiidenjoki, are ideal for kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and sunbathing. Lake Mallinkaistenjärvi has a beautiful lakeshore for swimming. There are also designated winter swimming locations in Tervakoski and Turenki for those seeking a unique experience.

Families will enjoy Puuhamaa Amusement Park, a water park with numerous activities including water slides, boating, and go-karting. Another option is the Rose Valley Pavilion (Ruusulaakso Pavilion), which is noted as family-friendly and offers a beautiful photo opportunity.

Absolutely. Janakkala offers various cycling opportunities. The Riihimäki–Hikiä Bike Path is a newly built route with gently rolling hills. For mountain biking, explore the MTB Trails around Janakkala, which include routes like the Someronlähde Ridge Trail. Gravel biking enthusiasts can find routes in the Gravel biking around Janakkala guide, such as the Kiipula Trail loop.

Beyond the medieval church, you can visit the Ida Aalberg Museum, dedicated to the renowned Finnish actress. The Hyvikkälä Shop Museum offers a glimpse into early 20th-century life, and the Napiala Old School hosts a Finnish school museum. The Laurinmäki Nature and Culture Area also includes a crofter's museum with authentic 19th-century buildings.

Janakkala has several unique natural features. Explore the Raimansuo Mire and Suurisuo Mire, with Suurisuo offering duckboards for hiking across the swamp. Discover geological wonders like Rappukallio's giant's kettle, Huntinkallio cave, and Löyttymäki's Rahakamari cave. The Someronlähde Spring is also a notable natural site associated with the region's esker formations.

Visitors appreciate Janakkala's blend of rich history and diverse natural beauty. The medieval sites, like the Church of Saint Lawrence and Hakoisten Castle Hill, offer a journey into the past. The extensive network of nature trails, lakes, and rivers provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling to kayaking. The community also enjoys unique attractions like the Karhuluola Bear Cave and Bear Sculpture, an artificial cave with a bear sculpture accessible via over 300 steps.

The Riihimäki–Hikiä Bike Path is noted as being wheelchair accessible, offering a smooth surface for cycling or other mobility aids.

During winter, Kalpalinna Ski and Bike Center in Turenki transforms into a ski destination with slopes for various skill levels. Additionally, Janakkala offers unique winter swimming locations in Tervakoski and Turenki for those brave enough to take a dip in the cold water.

Yes, the Hämeenlinna Prison Museum is a historical site located next to Hämeenlinna Castle. This museum is housed in a prison that was in use until 1990 and is open to visitors during the summer months.