Hyyppä landscape bench
The Hyyppä landscape bench has been implemented in collaboration with the Rural Education Association and the Municipality of Hailuoto as part of the "We Are the Municipality" project. The landscape bench is located on the Hyypän ridge, and on clear days, it offers a view all the way to Ojakylänlahti.
Location type
Luontokohde

A bench resembling a tree trunk that appeared on the Hyypänmäki ridge has sparked curiosity. People are asking where the bench, complete with inscriptions, came from and what its purpose is.
The idea for a scenic bench emerged from discussions about how to develop the Hyypän area based on community feedback. Multiple voices expressed the desire for a pleasant resting spot on Hyypän where visitors could take a break and enjoy a snack. The perfect spot was found along the Hyypän ridge, where, in some places, one can see sweeping views reaching all the way to the sea.
Words That Tell of Hyyppä
The bench took its final form during the opening of Hailuoto’s summer season on June 11, 2022. Community members contributed words they felt best describe or bring to mind the Hyypän area, gathered as people shared memories and thoughts about Hyypä. While some found their word quickly, others took a bit more time.
Each participant then stenciled their chosen word onto the wood surface of the bench, making their personal mark. In total, 14 people of various ages contributed their words over the course of the afternoon. Finally, the surface of the bench was varnished to make it durable and to preserve the words.
Honoring the Spirit of the Place
The bench was designed to blend harmoniously into the natural landscape of Hyypän, with an aim to avoid standing out in the beautiful surroundings. Thus, a split log shape was chosen for the bench, which can be opened for seating. When closed, the seat stays dry and clean for future visitors.
The bench is located on the ridge behind Hyyppä ski lodge, near Pakopirtti Gorge. It is accessible directly by a path, offering a view across forests that extends all the way to the sea.
— The bench, with its inscribed words, is intended to inspire conversation among those who gather around it.
Authors
Heidi Simppala, Community Developer
Niina Vuori, Project CoordinatorRural Culture Association (Maaseudun Sivistysliitto)
The Kunta olemme me project of the Rural Culture Association has two primary goals: to provide advanced training and work experience to young people educated in regional and community development and creative fields, and to develop services in the municipalities of Vaala and Hailuoto using participatory methods. Young people involved in the project actively work on community development within these municipalities. The project is run by the Rural Culture Association and is funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) along with the municipalities of Hailuoto and Vaala.
Entrance fee
Free
Visiting hours
All year round
Contact information
Hailuoto Municipality
Address
3R72+G6V Ojakylä, Finland
Web address
Hailuoto Municipality