Lapinlahti Park’s new summer trail is now open

Would you like to see the city from a whole new angle? The Lapinlahti Summer Trail invites you to explore one of Helsinki’s most unique green spaces – right in the middle of the city. This is not just a walk, but an opportunity to discover the history, nature and people that make Lapinlahti Park special.

Follow the trail and stop along the beautiful paths at the various crossings, where you will find fascinating stories and surprising information. You can also do a range of wellbeing exercises. Your adventure starts at Café Lähte, where you can pick up a map and information about Lapinlahti Lähte before you set off on the trail. Remember to return the map at the end so that others can enjoy the trail too.

Keep the park tidy, remember a curious attitude and take photos along the way. If you share your photos on social media, be sure to tag us! It would be great to see what you find. @lapinlahdenlahde

Each point has its own text, which you can read on the spot or online.

Are you ready?

1.Welcome to Lapinlahti!

On this nature trail you can explore Lapinlahti Park and do easy, well-being exercises. Finland’s first psychiatric hospital operated here between 1841 and 2008. The park has been serving former patients and current visitors for over 180 years – let’s take care of it together. Have a nice tour!

Presence exercise

We descend to the nature trail by feeling our footsteps. Walk a little slower than usual to the next tick. Note which part of the sole of your foot touches the ground first and which last. Feel the weight transfer and the rolling of the sole of the foot against the ground. You can walk at a pace that suits you, listening to your feet.

2. Thank you to the park

C.L. Engel, who designed the main building, chose Lapinniemi for the hospital because of its peacefulness. Spending time in the beautiful natural surroundings, gardening and sea bathing have helped patients to recover. Today, the park continues to bring joy and peace to plants, animals and people. Horticulture is still part of Lapinlahti through the cultivated plots.

Let’s save the park! The construction of the harbour tunnel would jeopardise the park’s exceptionally diverse biodiversity. For more information (in Finnish): https://lapinlahdenlahde.fi/ei-satamatunnelia-lapinlahden-puistoon/

Practice gratitude

While in the park, think about the things you are grateful for today. You can also write down your gratitude for, say, a week. A positive attitude towards life is strengthened when you make room for gratitude in your mind.

3. Hug a tree

Did you know that some of the current trees were planted by former patients? The main building is accessed by a magnificent park path with the oldest trees dating back to the 1850s. The park is also home to aspen, pine and the rare penstemon. The path along the bank to the Venetian House is lined with 1930s silver willows.

The trees are important habitats for wildlife. Many species are particularly dependent on old or decaying trees. Trees and parks also provide shelter, recreation, inspiration and overall well-being for people.

Hug a tree

Approach the tree of your choice. Say hello to the tree in your mind or out loud and look at it for a moment. Then settle down to hug the tree in peace, for 5-15 minutes. Feel the calming power of the tree.

4. Animals and the elements

In Lapinlahti you can see a wide variety of animals, such as squirrels, hares, foxes, birds and insects. The park has an exceptionally rich flora, and is home to endangered species such as the chalk squirrel and the highly endangered and specially protected flea latkes.

Move like nature

Notice the wind around you and let it move your body. Feel the warmth of the sun – bring your hands up and make a big circle with them. Crouch down to feel the stability of the earth and grow up like a sapling of a strong tree. Feel the calming power of the sea in your breath. Glide leisurely to the next treadmill like a gliding squirrel or an axe lettuce!

5. Summer Bingo

Welcome to the English-style garden courtyard, where you can enjoy historic views. Find a grid of things to do in the park and try to get four straight!

6. Everyone’s rights in the park

The hospital site has been reduced from its original 25 hectares to a third due to urban planning. The magnificent and resilient park has stood the test of time for over 180 years, so let’s protect it together!

• Just follow the existing paths, taking care not to trample the plants.
• Give the birds a break from nesting
• Dogs must be kept confined in the park. The dog park can be found at the Ruoholahti entrance to the park
• Picnicking, swimming, boating and fishing are allowed in the park
• Open fires are prohibited
• Please take your rubbish to your appointment and leave the area tidy. Do a good day’s work – Pick up your rubbish and take it to the nearest bin!

More information about everyone’s rights on the Luontoon.fi website https://www.luontoon.fi/fi/lajit/retkeily-ja-ulkoilu/jokaisenoikeudet

7. Birdwatching

Lapinlahti has a wide variety of birds! For example, can you spot these birds?

Help with bird identification!

8. Feedback for the park

Thank you for visiting the Summer Trail! Notice how you feel now – how does your body and mind feel? Thank yourself for the time you gave yourself on the path.

Also let us know how you feel by giving us feedback on the trail. This feedback will help us to improve our activities and bring forward your wishes for future park trails!

https://forms.gle/ a7R4TB1Hs92w9wBF8

Suggestions for the rest of the day: admire the farm plots, visit Café Lähte, the free art exhibitions and the Mental Museum, or visit our other events.

Welcome again! ❤️