Kainuu ridge settlement and rural courtyard at its best
At Vänkä village, at the beginning of the Vienan reitti, the hiker is presented with a stunning Kainuu dune landscape, with several buildings from different eras and a well-maintained traditional landscape. The Vänkä village is the best example of a Kainuu dwelling and farmstead at its best. The Vienan reitti passes through the old Purola farmstead. At the same time, you can stop to admire the restored old main building and fence and experience the atmosphere of a bygone era. The barn in the courtyard is also a reminder of how the farm is run.
The route is signposted by wooden poles and gates. In summer, it is safe to walk along the shepherd's crook to the gate, from where the path leads towards the Rautiaisen mylly. Curious cattle may stray close, but keep to the pasture fence.
Vänkä traditional rural landscape
The landscape opens up to extensive, well-managed pastures, where in summer the herd of angus graze, tending the village's traditional biotope. Vänkä's many traditional buildings of various ages have been carefully restored. There are numerous examples of the art of log building, including barns, stables, barns, saunas and barns of various ages. The most recent main building is a year-round residence.
In summer 2007 the village flora was inventoried. More than 100 plant species were found in Vänkä, including twinflower, marsh violet, heath spotted orchid, stiff clubmoss, germander speedwell, lady fern, wild strawberry, eyebright and reed canary grass. Vänkä was awarded the 2017 Landscape Management of the Year Award by the Women's Agriculture and Farming Centre.
Vänkä village as a stage for walkers
The settlement history of Vänkä dates back at least 300 years. Over the years, the village has been passed through by many different groups of Viena Karelia travellers, soldiers and local people.
