Pyynikinharju, the ridge on the west side of the city centre, is a real nature paradise. It is a nature reserve area full of trees and with some amazing views to lake Pyhäjärvi. It is a place where you can safely stroll in the forest without fearing getting lost. There are many baths and no signs but the area is in the middle of city so there are houses all around the area.
The best place to start the exploration of Pyynikinharju is Pyynikin Torni, the observation tower in the middle of this green ridge. Because there are many stairs and up and down hills I strongly recommend to start your exploration with a munkki at Pyynikin Munkkikahvila, a cafe in the tower. For those who want to have an adrenalin rush there is also the possibility during weekends to abseil from the top of the tower (26 meters) with Kelo and Kallio Adventures Co!
From Pyynikin Torni continue to Haulinkallio, where you can sit high on the bedrock with old pine trees, it offers amazing views over the lake of Pyhäjärvi. This is one of my favourite spots in Tampere. It offers quiet nature and the views will blow your mind.
Do not hurry in the woods but concentrate to find nice ‘secret’ places like icicle walls and decorated Christmas trees in the middle of the forest during wintertime.
The best place to end the exploration is the famous brunch at Cafe Pispala!
