Attractions and places to see around Malax offer a diverse range of experiences in the Ostrobothnia region of Finland. Located within the Kvarken Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Malax is known for its unique geological formations and coastal environment. The area features an ongoing land uplift and distinctive natural features, including a meteorite impact site. Visitors can explore historical sites, cultural centers, and museums that highlight the region's heritage.
Last updated: May 7, 2026
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Malax.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Along the Molpehällorna Nature Trail, several billboards explain nature and geology. Here you find a billboard explaining Striations made by continental ice sheet: This bedrock consists of mica gneiss. You can also see striations carved by the ice sheet on some rock surfaces, which is evidence of the fact that the ancient glacier flowed at least from the north-west and north. The fact that there are several striation directions shows that the erosion by the glacier was very weak, as otherwise the older striations would have been worn off by the new ones. The factors affecting the creation of the striations and the force of the erosion include, for example, characteristics of the materials migrating at the bottom of the glacier, flow rate, the forms of the land surface and the powerful pressure at the interface of the ice and the rock
0
0
Moikipää's pooki 1668-1808 Already in the 14th century, the Wargön Channel (Bergön Channel, old sailing channel) was a busy and most important channel leading to Mustasaari. The Wargön Channel ran north from the Bothnian Sea between Moikipää and the mainland to Bergön and Bredskär and then through Sillgrund and Korshamn to the Old Port of Vaasa. The Wargön Channel could be both a safe and a fatal channel at the same time. Its countless shallows were capable of causing great dangers. Sailing ships of the old days, which were not very deep-bottomed, could sail safely in shallow waters as long as the crew carefully remembered to observe the fairways' markers and seamarks. The Vayla was most likely put into use towards the end of the Middle Ages. The Korsnäs and Wargo markers are marked on Clas Classon's maps from 1650. The most interesting historical event of the Wargö Pass was the creation of the first pooki in the Gulf of Bothnia, the Moikipää pooki. According to available documents, it was built in 1668 and equipped with a lighthouse in 1681. The villagers of Molpe accepted the task of designing a completely new "far-visible tower", which would be at best 10-12 meters high. It was to be located on the "Halsö islet", i.e. in Moikipää. The construction costs of the tower were covered by a group of merchants from Vaasa, Uusikaarlepyy, Pietarsaari and Kokkola. The Moikipää pooki has probably been occupied since 1681.
0
0
The Museum Kvarnen is located between Vaasa and Sundom, but it's permanently close as of today. You can still enjoy the view of a beautiful red mill just outside of it.
1
0
The polder named Söderfjärden was formed hundreds of millions of years ago by the impact of a meteorite. South of Vaasa and Sundom, riding in this place will make you feel on Mars.
0
0
Simply fascinating: the small communities, the infrastructure with the ferry and of course the landscape,...
1
0
In December 1970, Bergö had a total population of 647 people, and 98% of the inhabitants were Swedish-speaking. At its peak population in 1938, 948 people lived in the municipality. Before its abolition, Bergö's land area was 33.8 km2 and its neighbouring municipalities were Korsnäs, Malax and Petalax.
6
0
Bergö is an island and former municipality in Finland, in the Coastal Ostrobothnia region. Bergö municipality was incorporated into Malax in 1973. The island's only connection to the mainland is currently the year-round ferry.
8
0
Malax is part of the Kvarken Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ongoing land uplift. You can visit Söderfjärden, a polder formed by a meteorite impact millions of years ago, offering a distinct geological experience. Additionally, along the Molpehällorna Nature Trail, you can find information boards explaining the fascinating striations carved by the continental ice sheet.
Malax offers several historical sites. The Moikipää Beacon, originally built in 1668, is one of the oldest 'pookis' (far-visible towers) in the Gulf of Bothnia. You can also see the historic Malax Church, designed by Charles Bassi and built in 1829, and the Brinken Museum, which showcases a farmhouse from 1879.
Yes, Malax has several museums. The Kvarken Boat Museum in Åminne houses one of the largest collections of wooden boats in the Nordic countries. You can also visit the Brinken Museum, and the Bergö Local Museum and Petalax Local Museum offer insights into regional history. While the Museum Kvarnen is permanently closed, its beautiful red windmill remains a notable sight.
Malax is home to the Art Factory Malakta, a former dairy transformed into a vibrant center for art, culture, and wellbeing, hosting events like concerts and exhibitions. During the summer, the Ur Bykiston Summer Theater provides cultural entertainment. The Malax center also features a bronze statue of Ilmatar, symbolizing the creation of the world in the Kalevala epic.
Bergö Island, known as the 'Pearl of Kvarken,' offers an authentic archipelago experience. It's accessible by a scheduled ferry and provides opportunities for swimming, walking, biking, and fishing amidst picturesque nature and boathouses. It's a great place to experience the unique island life of the Kvarken Archipelago.
Many of Malax's natural attractions are suitable for families. Söderfjärden is a family-friendly natural monument. Bergö Island offers various outdoor activities for all ages. The Åminne seaside location also features a public beach, folk park, and barbecue area, perfect for family outings.
Malax offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. You can explore various hiking trails, including the Öjberget Nature Trail. There are also running trails and road cycling routes available. The Kvarken Archipelago is ideal for paddling, fishing, and in winter, ice-skating or skiing.
The warmer months are ideal for hiking, biking, paddling, and fishing. The Kvarken Archipelago is also excellent for birdwatching, particularly during migration seasons. In winter, Malax offers opportunities for ice-skating and skiing, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers depending on your preferred activities.
The Kvarken Archipelago, including areas like Rönnskär and Åminne, provides excellent birdwatching opportunities. The Åminne seaside location specifically features a bird tower, making it a good spot to observe local and migratory bird species.
Yes, Malax has several easy walking trails. For example, the 'View of the Öjberget – Narrow trail loop from Sundom' is an easy hiking option. The Molpehällorna Nature Trail also offers accessible paths where you can learn about the local geology and nature.
Absolutely. Malax is part of the Kvarken Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its unique geological formations and ongoing land uplift. You can visit Söderfjärden, a polder formed by a meteorite impact. Along the Molpehällorna Nature Trail, information boards explain features like the striations carved by the continental ice sheet, offering insights into the area's glacial past.
Åminne is a significant seaside location in Malax. It is home to the Kvarken Boat Museum, which boasts a large collection of wooden boats. Beyond the museum, Åminne offers a public beach, a guest harbor, a folk park, a cottage village, a barbecue area, and a bird tower, making it a versatile spot for recreation and cultural exploration.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: