September 21, 2024, Varjakka Island, Oulu
The trip to Varjakka Island was the third joint expedition organized by the Association of Poles in Northern Finland aimed at getting to know new places in the Northern Ostrobothnia.
The island of Varjakka, despite being very close to Oulu, is unknown to many people living here, although it is an extraordinary place. Once a bustling island, which was one of the largest sawmills in northern Europe and home to dozens of families, is now uninhabited and the empty buildings of the sawmill’s management and workers’ houses are an amazing example of architecture from the early 20th century.
The day of our trip to Varjakka turned out to be clear and sunny, although windy. The crossing to the island by a manually operated cable ferry was an adventure! When we arrived on the island, SPPF vice-president Ewa took on the role of a guide and showed all participants around the most interesting places and told them the fascinating history of this place. We had the opportunity to see the management buildings of the former Varjakka sawmill, the workers’ houses, the stable, the sauna and the fire station.
After a few kilometers of walking, it was time for a campfire and a shared meal. There was no shortage of treats for everyone prepared by our wonderful president Kajetan and his Kajtering. There were sausages, burgers, four different salads and everyone’s favorite – baked potatoes and of course something sweet with hot coffee and tea.
In the evening, by the bonfire, we had the opportunity to listen to the more tragic stories of the island… because what better place to listen to these dark stories… And some of the participants of the trip could use the sauna, and the brave ones even jumped into the water, even though it was probably only about +10 degrees!
The trip ended after sunset when we returned together by ferry to the Varjakka peninsula. It was certainly an extraordinary and unforgettable day for all participants of the trip to Varjakka island.
