Description
Hanko peninsula is the southernmost tip of mainland Finland and a perfect spot to observe migrating birds. You also have a great view out to sea. A bird research station is located in a traditional fisherman’s cottage. During migration you can observe numerous songbird species, gulls, waders and waterfowl passing by. Birds include haahka, merihanhi, laulujoutsen, telkkä, isokoskelo, tukkakoskelo, alli, tylli, meriharakka, merikihu, harmaalokki, naurulokki, merilokki, selkälokki and merikotka.
Details
Access
Hanko peninsula is located directly west of the town of Hanko, on the southernmost tip of mainland Finland. There is a parking lot with information boards at the entrance to the nature reserve. 200m further on you have to park your bike, from there you have to continue on foot. Press P on the map for directions to the parking.
Terrain and Habitat
Forest , Scattered trees and bushes , Sea , BeachConditions
Rocky , DryCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
Autumn , SpringBest time to visit
Autumn migration , Spring migrationRoute
Narrow trailDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
FootBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
The Hanko Bird Observatory (1) was originally founded in 1979 and is maintained by the Helsinki region’s ornithological association. The scientists and volunteers of the station are dedicated to monitoring and researching bird migration patterns. While the observatory itself is primarily a research station, it does welcome visitors during certain periods. The best times to visit are spring (March–June) and autumn (August–November), when migration is at its peak. The observatory also organizes guided tours and visits. See for more info the weblink below.

