DEVELOPMENT AWARD St. Olav Waterway – A Nordic pilgrimage, Finland

Jury Motivation:
The “St. Olav Waterway” connects three countries by a historic pilgrimage route. The jury acknowledges this interesting idea and praises above all the sustainable travel experience. The past development has particularly convinced the jury and they are curious what the next years will bring.

www.visitpargas.fi

Among sparkling cold spring waters or fiery autumnal leaves, the archipelago is a wonderful place to explore on foot. You can embrace the silence and explore landscapes shaped by wind and sea, farmers and fishermen. In the evening after a long hike, cosy hotels and BBs await, hearty home cooked meals or casual fine dining restaurants often feature local seasonal produce.

Travel slowly and take time to island hop by renting a rowing boat, kayak or sailing boat tour. If the weather is bracing, indulge yourself with a massage or yoga weekend or simply rent a candle-lit cottage with friends for a well-deserved retreat.

St Olav Waterway is Finland’s first long-distance pilgrim’s trail, a path that follows in the footsteps and boat wakes of medieval pilgrims.