Welcome to the only World Natural Heritage Site in Finland - Kvarken Archipelago
The Kvarken Archipelago was listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in the summer of 2006. The Kvarken Archipelago forms together with the High Coast in Sweden a unique geological entity and a transboundary Natural Heritage Site.
The steep High Coast and the flat Kvarken Archipelago (the Low coast) are topographical opposites. Together they serve as a unique example of ongoing geological and biological processes and ecosystem development in time and space.
The land rises by 8-8,5 mm annually and creates about 1 km2 new land every year. With this rate the land uplift will create a permanent gateway over the Kvarken in about 2500 years.
First and only natural heritage site in Finland
The Kvarken Archipelago is Finland's first World Natural Heritage and the 162nd World Natural Heritage on the UNESCO World Heritage List. At the beginning of 2011 there are 180 natural properties and 27 mixed
on the list. The heritage list includes a total of 911 properties, of which 7 are situated in Finland.
Information
Would you like more information about the Kvarken Archipelago World Heritage Site - check out the official site
www.kvarken.fi or from the Kvarken council website
www.kvarken.org
Downloads
Visitor Guide
Guide with map and services in the area is available in English and German.
The guide is updated yearly.
The recent broschure can be ordered from the Tourist Office or downloaded here:
CrCruses and toursuises
Cruises and tours in the Kvarken archipelago