Where do local people run? That’s a question I have in mind when I visit another city, because often I take running gears with me. Running or jogging is a great way to get a touch for the city.
A popular track in Helsinki city center is the gravel path around Töölö Bay, Töölönlahti. It’s 2 km a round, so one lap of walk is perfect if you just want to stretch your legs for instance after a long flight. 3 laps running give you a jolly good exercise. Töölö Bay path is a bit like Central Park in New York, but on a much smaller scale.
The route goes through green and fresh parks, where you might be able to spot a group doing outdoor exercise, such as yoga, zumba or body-weight exercise. It’s worth asking if you can join them, as some of the park exercise classes are free of charge, sponsored by Helsinki City.
My absolute favourite place around Töölö Bay is the Café at the Blue Villa, Sinisen Huvilan Kahvila. They serve soup for lunch and they’ve got wonderful home-baked cakes and pastries. And the view! This is the best angle to enjoy the view to Finlandia Hall. And you can even spot the little perspective joke of architect Alvar Aalto: It looks as if the tower of National Museum went through the white marble of Finlandia Hall.
Once again I find myself recommending a café when I was supposed to recommend sports. Well, better luck next time.
Café at the Blue Villa
Linnunlauluntie 11 H, 00530 Helsinki
Staycation in Helsinki 