Question 1

What is the St. Olav Waterway?

Accepted Answer

The St. Olav Waterway is a medieval pilgrimage route that runs from Turku in Finland to the village of Eckerö on Åland. It was reopened in 2019. More information can be found on the page “About St. Olav” and on the official website: stolavwaterway.com/en.

Question 2

Which path is for me?

Accepted Answer

The Waterway is just one of several pilgrim paths in the Nordic countries. We offer hikes along five of them. Which one is best for you? We compare them on the About page.

Question 3

How long is the St. Olav Waterway?

Accepted Answer

The total distance is 340 kilometers, including ferry crossings. However, the distance you actually walk is approximately 215 kilometers.

Question 4

Is walking the St. Olav Waterway difficult?

Accepted Answer

Along the St. Olav Waterway, you walk on paved and unpaved roads as well as forest trails. On Åland you will have to climb some boulders, which can be tricky. 
The route also includes some island hopping by ferry - most of which are free, though some require advance booking. Good equipment and planning are essential, and you should be in good physical condition. Still, the route is easy to moderate for most hikers!

Question 5

Is it safe?

Accepted Answer

A pilgrimage hike, especially the longer ones, can be physically demanding. Good training and proper equipment are essential. For some trails, we also recommend using hiking poles to help with balance and to reduce strain on your knees during climbs and descents – although not really necessary along this trail
Every country has its own SOS or emergency app, which you should install on your phone. This allows emergency services to track your location if needed. Make sure to add us as your contact, so we can follow your progress along the route. You can always call us if you need assistance.

Question 6

What kind of accommodation is available along the St. Olav Waterway?

Accepted Answer

Accommodation along the route varies from rooms to cabins and small hostels or hotels. Nordic Pilgrim selects all accommodations with care. However, the standard may vary, as the route is still relatively new and not yet fully developed.

Question 7

Are there many elevation changes?

Accepted Answer

No, not really. There is one day where you have to climb some boulders (Lemland).

Question 8

When is the best time to walk the St. Olav Waterway?

Accepted Answer

The St. Olav Waterway is accessible from April to October. Outside of this period, temperatures are less favorable and the weather can be unpredictable. Also, during the low season, there are fewer ferries operating between the islands.

Question 9

Can I walk the St. Olav Waterway without help?

Accepted Answer

Do you prefer to organize everything yourself? That’s possible. You can find information on the official St. Olav Waterway website. However, if you need help with planning, booking, or general information, please feel free to contact us.

Question 10

How to get there and back?

Accepted Answer

You’ll need to book your journey to and from Finland or Sweden yourself, as these costs are not included in our prices.

There are several ways to travel to Finland, but we recommend flying to Helsinki and then taking a train or bus to Turku. For your return trip, you can take a ferry from Eckerö to Grisslehamn (Sweden) and then a bus to Stockholm. You can also take a direct ferry from Mariehamn to Stockholm or an overnight ferry back to Turku. Finding the best or cheapest option can be a bit of a puzzle, and we’re happy to help you figure it out.

Traveling by ferry across the archipelago can be tricky, as there are many different schedules to follow—so don’t hesitate to ask us for advice.

You can also start your own planning by visiting these websites:
Finnair (flights)
SAS (flights)
VR (trains in Finland)
Viking Line (ferries between Stockholm & Turku)
Eckerö Linjen (ferry between Grisslehamn & Eckerö, bus to Stockholm)
Finferries (ferries across the archipelago)
Ålandstrafiken (ferries to/from Kökar)

Question 11

Can you cycle the St. Olav Waterway?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We even offer a special package for cyclists.

Question 12

Can I bring my dog?

Accepted Answer

Many pilgrims choose to travel with their four-legged friend. This is possible, as most accommodations accept dogs—just be sure to check in advance. Dogs are allowed in the passenger lounges on ferries. However, special rules apply when entering Finland with a dog. More information:  www.norden.org/en/info-norden/travelling-finland-dogs-or-cats

Question 13

Why is the St. Olav Waterway more expensive than other routes?

Accepted Answer

When browsing the Nordic Pilgrim website, you may notice that this hike is more expensive than others. Why is that? Mainly because life in the Finnish archipelago is simply more costly. Another reason is that most accommodations along the Waterway – of which there are still relatively few – are of a higher standard than those along the St. Olav Path or the Olav Path.

Question 14

What should I take with me on my trip?

Accepted Answer

Thermos/water bottle, backpack, rain gear, warm clothing, good hiking shoes (preferably waterproof), first aid kit and blister plasters, passport. Trekking poles can be very useful. Also make sure you have valid travel insurance.
Some tips: Packing list for long-distance hikes – Outdooractive

FAQ