Experience Lauttasaari
A peaceful island escape near central Helsinki
My name’s Celina and from March to September 2024 I lived in a Comodo apartment in Ullanlinna. I didn’t realize it at the time but the unexpected move allowed me to experience life in Helsinki from a different perspective. After I moved back home I decided to continue the adventure by spending more time in the other districts of Helsinki. So join me, as I see what life would be like in Punavuori, Kallio/Hakaniemi, Jätkäsaari and Töölö.
The Island of the Happy – What Makes Lauttasaari Special?
Lauttasaari, a maritime district, is home to 25,325 people. It’s located 3 kilometers west of Helsinki. A delightful combination of coastal scenery and lush parks, the locals call it “Onnellisten saari.”
 |
“Onnellisten saari”, if Finnish isn’t your first language– translates to “the island of the happy.” Ironically, I only recently learned that, and finally came to understand why years ago when I applied for an apartment here, I competed against 80 people and obviously didn’t get it.
Step into another world
You know those movies where they step into an alternate dimension? So, Lauttasaari, an island, located 15 minutes from the city center by public transport, is literally like that– I’m talking greenery, calmness and serenity every way you look. One minute you’re in the concrete jungle and the next you’re in the midst of island vibes.
 |
 |
There’s nothing quite like this, so close to Helsinki. So if you’re looking for calm and serenity close to town- Lauttasaari, or “the island of the happy” might just be the perfect location for you.
A culinary journey by the Sea
I actually work in Lauttasaari so I started my journey from the office in Itälahdenkatu.
 |
Isn’t it funny how you can commute somewhere so regularly yet fail to spend any time there? The day before I did my journey around Lauttasaari, I had googled places to eat. Whilst I have my favorite during work hours- Borneo (amazing Thai/Malaysian cuisine), I was craving my usual favorite- fish. So, I went to Restaurant Telakka.
 |
It’s a beautiful restaurant, located right next to the sea. For starters I had Calamari and for my main course, I had Mussels in a white wine garlic sauce. There aren’t many places I know of that serve mussels so this was a rare treat and I can highly recommend it.
 |
 |
Other restaurants that come highly recommended by locals and people who work in the neighborhood are; Paseo Cafe & Grill, Trattoria Limone and Casa Mare. There’s also a well known cafe called Le Jardin which is well worth a visit.
Letting the island unfold by foot: Everyday nature and wildlife
After enjoying an early dinner, I decided the only way to get to know this island and enjoy it for what it’s known for- nature, would be to walk home. What a decision in heels but well worth it!
 |
With the nature that Lauttasaari has to offer, you’ll also find an abundance of wildlife, in particular geese and rabbits. There’s people sitting on the rocks, enjoying the last rays, couples in the park, runners and families going about their business.
Things to do in Lauttasaari:
So what can you expect to do if you find yourself living in Lauttasaari? I actually read an interesting article about someone who came to Finland when they learned they had a Finnish descendent who was an artist– this somehow then led to them being invited back to the Lauttasaari Manor Residence thanks to a migrant history research group. And it is this Manor, which should be on your list of “to do’s”.
The Lauttasaari Manor - A hidden Gem
The Manor now owned by Kone Foundation, is a unique piece of history that boosts gardens that have been restored to their 1920s glamor and is available for tours– you just need to sign up.
Outdoors, Sports, and Summer Days
If sports is your thing, go for a run or a hike. Lauttasaari has several running trails. There are some which lead to Salmisaari, where you can find Salmisaari Sports Center, with even more activities for you to enjoy. In both the winter and in the summer, enjoy swimming and lastly, if we happen to have a hot summers day, make sure to enjoy one of the two public beaches in Lauttasaari– Lauttasaari beach and Veijarivuori beach.
 |
A bubble of Peace by the Sea
Lauttasaari is pretty much perfect for city and nature dwellers alike. Whilst I was walking home and people watching and bird watching, and staring out into the sea, I just got lost in my own thoughts. It was peaceful. You don’t even realise you’re that close to town. You don’t hear the traffic on the roads, or even the boats passing. You’re in your own little bubble and maybe that’s what Lauttasaari is– it's its own little bubble of peace, tranquility and happiness.
 |
An island, where thanks to Comodo, you have the opportunity to enjoy.