Best lakes around Kauniainen, a small municipality within Espoo, are centered around Gallträsk, its primary lake. This area offers a blend of natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. Gallträsk is a shallow lake, approximately 11.7 hectares in size, with an accessible walking path spanning about 1.8 kilometers. The region is known for its serene atmosphere, diverse wildlife, and historical significance, with some early 20th-century villas still standing along the lake's shores.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
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Shelter near the lake with a fire pit, including barbecue facilities and seating.
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This charming little shelter has picnic tables and dry toilets, both of which can come in handy on a run. There are some lovely views across the lake too.
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now new asphalt on what was the worst section, the Tarvaspää parking lot and the closest bit of road next to it
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Pirttimäki lies on the route of the Retti 2000, the Helsinki region's longest hiking trail. It makes for a good pit stop thanks to its lovely cafe. The wider Pirttimäki Recreational Area is a delight to explore on foot, with its glacial erratics, steep cliffs and scenic lakes.
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Small boats moved by tiny waves, scenting trees and a gravel road just next to the shoreline – it is hard to beat that stunning maritime scenery.
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the narrow wooden bridge was replaced a couple of years ago with a much wider one but it can still get crowded as among other things it also seems to be a popular place for fishing...
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Small, shallow lake. There is no official beach, but is a good place for swimming in the western part of the lake. The lake is surrounded by a shady forest with many paths. It's a great place for walking at any season.
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The primary lake in Kauniainen is Gallträsk. It is a small, shallow lake covering about 11.7 hectares, known for its accessible walking path and recreational opportunities.
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Gallträsk features a playground and picnic tables on its northeastern shore. Hannusjärvi Lake is surrounded by shady forests with many paths, great for walking at any season. The Pirttimäki Recreational Area also offers a lake, forest, and a cafe, making it a pleasant family destination.
You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Around Gallträsk, popular activities include walking, jogging, dog walking, fishing, and even ice skating in winter when conditions allow. For more structured routes, you can find numerous hiking trails, MTB trails, and running trails in the wider Kauniainen area.
While there isn't an official beach, Hannusjärvi Lake is considered a good place for swimming, particularly in its western part. Gallträsk also allows swimming during the summer months.
The lakes are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. Gallträsk is surrounded by mature spruce and leafy oak trees, and its western side features the protected Träskmossen swamp area with duckboards. You might also spot diverse wildlife, including bats and flying squirrels. The Pirttimäki Recreational Area is notable for its glacial erratics and steep cliffs.
Gallträsk is easily accessible by car, public transport, or bicycle, located approximately 15-20 minutes from Helsinki city center by car. The walking path around Gallträsk is also designed to be accessible.
Yes, the Pirttimäki Recreational Area includes a lovely cafe, making it a good spot for a break. Additionally, the Sorlampi cooking shelter offers picnic tables, dry toilets, and barbecue facilities near a lake, providing a convenient resting spot.
Yes, Gallträsk has historical significance. The villa community of Grankulla (Kauniainen) was established around the lake in the early 20th century, and some of these historic villas still stand along its shores.
The lakes offer different experiences throughout the year. Summer is ideal for swimming, walking, and boating. In winter, when ice conditions permit, Gallträsk often has a plowed skating track. The surrounding forests, like those around Hannusjärvi Lake, are pleasant for walking in any season.
Yes, the Tarvaspää Bridge and Lakeside Bike Path offers nice tarmac and scenic views of the water, making it a popular route for cyclists. The path around Gallträsk is also suitable for cycling.
Along Koukkuniemenranta is a gravel road right next to the shoreline, offering stunning maritime scenery. Visitors enjoy the scent of trees and views of small boats, providing a pleasant and serene experience.
Yes, dog walking is a popular activity around Gallträsk, which has an accessible path suitable for pets. Many of the forest paths around lakes like Hannusjärvi Lake are also suitable for dog walking.


Still not found your perfect lake around Kauniainen? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.