Hostel accommodation in Ähtäri

Gaija is located on a scenic peninsula 7 kilometers from Ähtäri center and 9 kilometers from the famous animal park. The relaxed and youthful atmosphere ensures an interesting experience for all guests, who values old tradition or organic living. Ecology is a way for us to live in harmony with the environment and the community is a form of housing to ensure the natural spirit of the place.

Is you need a lift from the train/bus station let us know few days earlier (5 euros/ride)

Accommodation 

The stonehouse from 1940 has 9 cosy two-bed guest rooms upstairs all viewing the lake surrounding the house. Every room is the same price, so you can choose your own place upon arrival, they all have two beds, a small table and comfy chairs, except nr 3 that sports a mediumsize doublebed.

The hostel's kitchen and dining room are free to use, there is a small eating area, fridge and all utensils, and if you need special cookware it can be borrowed from the main kitchen downstairs.

The shower and toilets are shared with the two upstairs apartments, where the horseowners live with their children in a separate area. The doors at the staircases at both ends of the house serve as firesecurity, and are thus a bit heavier than normal. 

An additional small bed for children is available and we are preparing a room on the lower floor for people with handicaps - it should be ready this summer, feel free to call to enquire.

You can bring your own sheets and towels or borrow from the house (7 euros/person).

Important note about warm water!!

The shower and tabwater is heated by solar panels during summer. On cloudy days it is thus cooler than after sunshine. Upon request we will heat water with wood in the massoven, this takes around three hours. In the cold season there is warm water only in the evening.

Allergy warning! The house has several childfriendly dogs and two cats. They are kept away from the hostel, but will be outside and in part of the house. If a dog is running towards you, just talk to it - they only playfully jump when exited, and get calm when hearing your voice or being caressed.

Naturally all visitors are welcome to see the horses, sheep and chicken by the old stone barn. Children can go ponyriding when the weather is good and experienced adults can ride a horse (15 euros/hour). We strive to keep the animals happy and thus will only permit riding when they are in good spirit (which they mostly are - especialy in sunny weather, just like us:) We rent cayacs, bicycles, snowshoes...contact us and ask for more!

Prices and booking:
maru@gaija.org
+358 505717261