In October of 2023, a group of knitters embarked on a delightful journey to Utö, Finland's southernmost island. The weekend was filled with of crafting, exploration, and community while enjoying the beautiful rugged archipelago nature.
Knitting Adventure to Utö 2023: A Weekend in the Southern Archipelago
27.10-29.10.2023 | Fri 17:00 - Sun 16:00 | Utö
Meeting Point: Pärnäinen Ferry Terminal, Parainen Google Maps Link
This late autumn weekend promises an unforgettable adventure to the outermost archipelago. Utö, Finland's southernmost year-round inhabited island, is renowned for its military fortress, lighthouse, pilot station, and birdlife. Utö's landscape is characteristic of the outer archipelago: rocky and rugged. During the weekend, we'll meet local islanders, explore the island's history, visit the lighthouse, and enjoy a traditional archipelago lunch.
The weekend begins on Friday, 27.10.2023, at 18:00 at Pärnäisten Ferry Terminal in Nauvo. The easiest way is to drive from Helsinki (3h) or Turku (1.5h). You can also take the archipelago bus from Turku to the ferry. For the precise meeting point, check the Google Maps link. Event organizers can assist with carpooling if needed.
Ferry Departure: The ferry departs at 18:15 from Pärnäinen, and the journey takes about 4 hours to Utö. It's the perfect knitting time! The ferry offers home-cooked meals for hungry travelers at a small extra cost.
Accommodation: On Utö, we stay in double rooms at the local hotel Utö Hotel, a converted old barracks building turned into a hotel in 2007. You can mention your roommate preferences in the comments.
Saturday: We'll enjoy a hotel breakfast, explore the island, visit the lighthouse, and delve into the island's history. In an old arsenal, a traditional archipelago lunch awaits. There's also time for relaxation, knitting, or reading a book.
Sauna: The sauna will be heated before dinner. On Saturday evening, we'll dine at the hotel restaurant. We've reserved a table, and you can freely choose from the à la carte menu. Dinner is not included in the trip price.
Sunday: We'll have brunch together, and then it's time to pack. At 12, the ferry departs back to Pärnäinen. We'll be in Pärnäinen at 16, and individual car transports will head back to Helsinki and Turku. You'll be home around 19-20 on Sunday.
Price: Booking Fee: €50 via MobilePay to the organizers. Accommodation: €170 paid on-site to Utö Hotel.
Price includes:
- Accommodation for 2 nights + breakfast
- Sauna
- Archipelago lunch on Saturday
- Island and lighthouse exploration
- Connection boat
Possible additional costs:
- Car rides
- Possible food on the ferry on Friday
- Dinner on Saturday evening at the hotel restaurant
- Boat trip "Utö by Sea" with a local Utö resident – weather-dependent
Adventure Partners:
-
Collaboration Partner - Säie Wool Knit your dream garments with unique, hand-dyed yarns.
-
Accommodation - Utö Havshotell Finland's southernmost sea hotel.