The town of Kajaani is the capital of the Kainuu region in the geographic heart of Finland. It is 35 miles north of Helsinki amid rivers, lakes and forests. With car hire in Kainuu you can explore the region. The natural highlights include ferries and bridges to tourist islands in Lake Oulujärvi, the protected forests of Talaskangas Nature Reserve and the Kajaani River, which is a favourite among anglers. Paltamo has one of Finland's most scenic golf courses and the Lakeland views from the hills of Jättiläisenmaa are renowned. Look out too for the sandy beaches on the island of Manamansalo.
Visitors who hire a car in Kajaani can tour the town easily. You'll find that it's a mix of modern and old, with the local economy still dominated by paper and timber industries. The centre is mostly modern but historic visitor attractions include a 19th-century neo-gothic church, the ruins of the ancient stone castle on a river island and the striking yellow-painted 180-year-old town hall. Look out too for the modern art museum in the former police station and the old government building where Russian President Brezhnev met the Finnish President, which is now the town's best restaurant.
