Varissaari

Varissaari is one of the old fortress islands of Kotka, just 10 minutes by sea from Sapokka. There is a summer restaurant on the island, the windows of which open up great views of the waters of the sea battles in Ruotsinsalmi in 1789-90. As a reminder of the time, ship parts and cannons lifted from the sunken frigate St. Nikolai can be seen.

VARISSAARI IS A WONDERFUL EXCURSION DESTINATION IN FRONT OF KOTKA 

Restaurant Vaakku serves in Varissaari, located off Kotka, which is a ten-minute sea journey from the mainland. Varissaari combines the peace of nature, breathtaking landscapes and service providers of various marine activities, which crown a summer excursion day. Restaurant Vaakku is of course responsible for food and drinks.

VARISSAARI HISTORY

In the 18th century, Varissaari served as a defense fortress, which was built between 1790 and 1796 originally on two islands. Together with Fort Slava located in Kukouri, it protected the shipping lanes leading to the Ruotsinsalmi from the west and south. Varissaari's Elisabeth fort was named after the Russian empress Elisabeth Petrovna, and it served as part of the Ruotsinsalmi sea fortress. The fortress was abolished in the early 19th century, and later in the same century its buildings and walls were destroyed in the Crimean War. In recent years, however, the ramparts have been renovated, and the island has been a popular outdoor recreation area for the people of Kotka since the end of the 19th century. As a reminder of the warlike history, the island still has ship parts and cannons recovered from the wreck of the frigate St. Nikolai, which sank in the naval battles of the Ruotsinsalmi (1789-1790).

ACTIVITIES IN VARISSAARI 

The island has a beach and a beach volleyball court. In addition, the island's landscapes offer a great setting for hiking in historic archipelago landscapes. We also organize wreath courses, themed dinners, treasure hunts for adults, history tours and physical activities together through our partners.

WELCOME TO SPEND A MEMORABLE SUMMER DAY IN VARISSAARI 

Pack an excursion blanket and your bathing suit, and come on a trip to Varissaari on a sunny summer day! At Ravintola Vaakku, we welcome you to eat and relax on our terrace with a cold drink.