Naantali (Nådendal in Swedish): Finland
Naantali (Swedish Ndendal, Latin Vallis Gratiae – valley of grace), city in south-western Finland, known as the probably most important tourist centre of the country. The small city, with a population of 13 500, is located in the province of Finland Proper 15 kilometres to the west of Turku, the province’s capital.
The city encompasses a land area of 51.08 square kilometres. Most of this area is located on the island of Luonnonmaa to the southwest of the city centre, but the majority of the population lives on the mainland. Most of the island is in fact forest and farmland, while the mainland consists chiefly of residential areas.
Tourism and points of interest
This interesting divide between urban and rural is perhaps one reason as to why the city has been named the most popular tourist centre in the country by numerous surveys. Another factor affecting this is the proximity of both Turku, the region’s administrative centre and largest city, and of the beautiful archipelago.
There are also some important points of interest in the city, such as the Moomin World theme park on the island of Kailo, Naantali Spa Hotel, the largest spa in Scandinavia, and the mediaeval convent church. The city’s popularity as a tourist venue is highlighted by the fact that the official summer residence of the President of Finland, the Kultaranta estate, is located on Luonnonmaa.
