Surrounded by lakes and ridges, Kangasala is a popular tourist destination, with interesting museums and landscape views from its towers.
Located in the province of Pirkanmaa, Kangasala is known for its landscape of ridges and lakes, so visit Kangasala and climb an observation tower to admire the scenery and wildlife. Kangasala is just over twelve miles from Tampere and is a good choice for a day trip or weekend break. If you are interested in cars, you’ll love Kangasala – there are two automobile museums to discover here.
Kangasala offers many cultural attractions. Kangasala Church, founded in 1767, is a fine historical building, but you might also enjoy the newer Kangasala Cultural Centre. Besides a charming concert hall, the cultural centre includes the Kimmo Pyykkö Art Museum, displaying the diverse work of sculptor Kimmo Pyykkö. Located in an old granary, the Kangasala Museum of Local History is open in the summer for any history fanatics.
Kangasalan Lepokoti is an old nursing home dating back to the beginning of the twentieth century. A guide will take you through its corridors, telling stories about the artists and writers who once lived there, and the museum shop sells works by local artists and artisans.
Kangasala has two automobile museums. Mobilia is a specialist museum for car enthusuasts, while Vehoniemi is small but just as fascinating. In addition to its temporary exhibitions, Mobilia has permanent exhibitions and an international Rally Hall of Fame. Children will want to try the pedal cars at Rahtarit Traffic Park. At Vehoniemi, you can see skilfully restored cars and a comprehensive collection of motorcycles.
Enjoy a rewarding, inexpensive holiday in Kangasala by visiting the surrounding landscape. The observation towers at Vehoniemenharju and Haralanharju are both good spots for taking in the impressive views. Visitors interested in wild birds should visit the Pohtiolampi Osprey Centre, which offers free access to its public tower and is a great place to see ospreys.
Highway 12 from Tampere to Lahti connects Kangasala with major cities and there is a good bus service between Kangasala and Tampere. Explore Kangasala at your own pace and enjoy the tranquility of a summer in Pirkanmaa.
