Ruissalo

Southwest of Turku, off the mouth of the Aurajoki, lies the island of Ruissalo, which is linked with the mainland by a bridge. Here there is a large recreation area, with a camping site, a golf course, minigolf and facilities for riding and water-skiing. In August every year a rock festival, Ruisrock, is held here. On the island is a spring with an inscription commemorating the Swedish writer M. Choräus (1774-1806), who lived on Ruissalo for some time. On the south coast is a swimming station. The shores of the island are lined with handsome villas (mostly timber-built) dating from the turn of the century. In the center of the island is the Villa Roma (art exhibitions; artists' studios).