Hietasaari

The Hietasaari region is an emersion coast with lush flora, old park and garden species, versatile nature of old villas and gardens, as well as recreational outdoor areas. You can explore the different coastal flora zones, coastal meadows, coastal forests, fresh and dry grass forests, and observe the abundant bird population. Hietasaari is located near the Oulu city centre, in connection with the tourist area of Nallikari. The primary starting point of the nature trail is in Nallikari. You can arrive in Nallikari over the Toppilansalmi Bridge by car or bus. On foot or by bicycle, the trip to Nallikari from the city centre is about 3 km through Pikisaari and the bridges extending over the Oulujoki River Islands. Local buses will take you directly to Nallikari from the city centre. 

The longest nature trail presents all the central attractions of Hietasaari. The trail starts in Nallikari and leads south along the coast. The trail passes by the Loistokari Platform, a campfire site, and the Rantakurvi Bird-Watching Tower, after which the trail turns east. Wood is not supplied for the campfire site. The trail passes through the Johteenhovi Pine Forest, Salasalmi Water Meadow, other meadows and thickets into the old villa area and back to Nallikari along a pedestrian road. 

The Loistokari Platform and campfire site are fully accessible when accompanied by an assistant, except in the wet season when the path is difficult to traverse. It is possible to arrive at the platform and campfire site from Vaaskiventie instead of the coast path.