Raippaluoto

Raippaluoto is an island located in the Kvarken Archipelago, an area of the Gulf of Bothnia that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is part of the municipality of Korsnäs in Finland. The island is known for its distinctive natural landscape, characterized by rocky shores, sparse vegetation, and numerous islets and skerries. The Kvarken Archipelago is geologically significant due to the ongoing land uplift, a phenomenon where the landmass is slowly rising out of the sea.

The population of Raippaluoto is relatively small, with most inhabitants living in small villages scattered across the island. The economy has traditionally been based on fishing and small-scale farming, though tourism has also become increasingly important. The island is accessible by car via a bridge connecting it to the mainland, the Raippaluoto Bridge, which was the longest bridge in Finland upon its completion.

The natural environment of Raippaluoto is a major attraction for visitors. The archipelago offers opportunities for activities such as birdwatching, boating, and hiking. The unique geological features and the resilient flora and fauna adapted to the harsh conditions of the Baltic Sea are of considerable scientific interest. The cultural heritage of the island, reflecting a long history of settlement and adaptation to the maritime environment, is also a notable aspect of Raippaluoto.