Responsibility is an important part of tourism in the Kotka-Hamina and Loviisa region. Together with tourism operators and businesses, we are taking a long-term approach to build a sustainable and responsible destination that we can continue to enjoy in the future.
We take the impact of tourism, whether social, cultural, economic, or environmental, seriously, and we want to preserve our region’s biodiversity and cultural heritage for future generations. Therefore, we are heavily involved in the different responsibility and sustainability programmes each city in our region is conducting.
As a tourist, you too can make responsible choices during your stay, so read further for some great tips while you are here!
At the Maritime Centre Vellamo, showcasing the maritime history of the area is a given, but Vellamo also focuses on social, ecological, and economic responsibility. As a recognition of all this great work in sustainable tourism, the Maritime Centre Vellamo has been awarded the Green Key certification.
The Maretarium is an attraction in Kotka, Finland, exhibiting Finnish aquatic nature and fish species, with a strong focus on tourism sustainability in its operations.
Vimpa Islands, which offers accommodation, experience excursions and programme services in Hamina, brings its customers right up close to nature, with a deep, ecological mindset in all of its operations.
Go Green
Kotka is easy to get around by bike, so rent a city bike and easily explore the city. Rentals can be for the whole day or for a shorter time.
Using local buses is also very convenient and there are connections between Loviisa, Pyhtää, Kotka, Hamina, Virolahti and Miehikkälä. View timetables and book your ticket here.
Choose Local
By using the services of local businesses, you support the vitality of the whole region and get to enjoy the genuine atmosphere and the lovely people of South-East Finland.
In addition, numerous accommodation providers provide a great setting for a multi-day trip to enjoy active experiences and culture – and let’s not forget the great food!
Many companies in our region operate according to the principles of sustainable tourism.
Enjoy Nature Responsibly
Our region is home to two national parks and numerous natural sites of great beauty. The Eastern Gulf of Finland and Valkmusa National Parks are home to several programme service companies committed to Finland’s national land board’s principles of sustainable nature tourism.
It is also good to remember outdoor etiquette when walking in nature so that the sites remain a delight for tourists and locals in the future.
Travel Off-Season
If possible, plan your trip to take place outside the busiest seasons. Our region offers plenty to see and do all year round. Travelling off-season will reduce your impact on the destination and its local nature, support local businesses, and generally experience the region without congestion.
Sustainable Travel Finland
Visit Kotka-Hamina has been part of Visit Finland’s Sustainable Travel Finland programme since 2020. Companies that have passed the programme are eligible to use the STF label, meaning that they have met the necessary criteria for sustainable tourism and are committed to continuously developing sustainability in their operations. 15 companies in our region are currently participating in the programme, and nine of them already has the STF label.
The development of sustainable travel in Southeastern Finland has been funded by EU’s European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development: Europe investing in rural areas and Finland’s Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment.
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