Observation Towers in Kangasala
You can admire the picturesque landscapes of Kangasala’s ridges from its scenic observation towers.
Observation towers have been built on Kangasala’s ridges since the early 1800s. These towers are closely tied to views of Finland’s nationally significant natural and cultural landscapes. The ridges and towers have inspired many artists and writers. One famous example is Zachris Topelius, whose poem A Summer Day in Kangasala (Kesäpäivä Kangasalla) was inspired by the views from Haralanharju.
Enjoy a delightful day trip taking in the unique ridge landscapes – “on the topmost branch” – in Kangasala!
Kirkkoharju Observation Tower
One of Kangasala’s most well-known attractions, the Kirkkoharju Observation Tower is located in the Kirkkoharju hiking and outdoor area, near the town center. From the tower, you can enjoy views in three directions: north toward Lake Vesijärvi and the Sorola estate, east over the church tower toward Kuohunharju, and south over Lake Kirkkojärvi toward Roine.
The first wooden observation tower was built here in 1882. In 1931, the current modernist concrete tower—designed by master builder Heikki Tiitola—was erected in its place. The ridge-top terrace where the tower stands has long been a traditional gathering place known as “Helaanmäki.” A café operates at the tower and in the adjacent building. The tower is open during the café’s opening hours, and entrance is free. You can also reach this observation tower easily by local transport, tower is situated close to city center.
📍 Location: Kirkkoharjuntie 3, 36200 Kangasala
Vehoniemenharju Observation Tower
This tower, built in 1927, offers beautiful views of the cultural landscape stretching over Lakes Roine and Längelmävesi. On a clear day, you might even see the chimneys of Valkeakoski. The first tower on this spot was commissioned in 1892 by A.W. Liljestrand, a local councillor.
Vehoniemenharju has long been a tourist destination. Even King Gustav III and Emperor Alexander I visited the area—the nearby Keisarinharju (Emperor’s Ridge) is named after the emperor’s 1819 visit. Following the construction of the 1927 tower, a summer restaurant and hotel were also built, operating until 1980. Today, the tower is maintained by the Vehoniemi Automobile Museum Association. In place of the hotel now stands the popular Vehoniemi Automobile Museum, opened in 1983. The museum includes a well-loved café serving traditional Finnish doughnuts and locally made ice cream. Both the tower and museum are free to enter, and the tower remains open even when the museum is closed. Vehoniemenharju is part of the Natura 2000 conservation network.
📍 Location: Vehoniemenharjuntie 78, 36570 Kangasala
Haralanharju Observation Tower
The views from Haralanharju inspired Zachris “Sakari” Topelius to write the beloved poem A Summer Day in Kangasala, which was later set to music by Gabriel Linsén. This song was eventually chosen as the official regional anthem of Pirkanmaa. Its lyrics capture the beauty of Finnish nature and the human longing for freedom. From the tower, you’ll see idyllic landscapes stretching over the fields of Huhtala and Lihasula. Haralanharju is recognized as one of Finland’s nationally significant landscape areas.
An observation tower was likely first built here in the late 1800s. The tower erected in 1932 by the Suinula Youth Association became a popular viewpoint and was repaired several times, most recently in the 1990s. After an arson incident in 2006, a new tower was constructed and opened in 2009.
Voluntary maintenance contributions can be made at the donation box on-site or at the café when open. The tower is managed by the Suinula Youth Association. In July, a summer café at the tower sells drinks, snacks, and sweet treats.
📍 Location: Haralanharjuntie 142, 36120 Kangasala. Haralanharju Observation Tower in Facebook
