Tvijälp - the ambiance of a deserted island just off the coast of Espoo
Tvijälp, located off the coast of Espoo, is a 13.4-hectare island. Tvijälp is a true local nature tourism destination, as it is only 200 meters from Westend in Espoo, offering an exceptional contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city. The island has no services, and its only buildings belong to an old fisherman's estate, reflecting the past fishing life in Espoo. Tvijälp is part of the eastern archipelago of Espoo. Haukilahti marina and beach with services are just a short kayak ride away.
The island's nature is diverse. Its southern part is dominated by smooth bedrock, while the northern part is home to lush forests. Beautiful coastal meadows and old, twisted pines can be admired throughout the island. The shape of Tvijälp resembles the letter "C," offering a sheltered, reed-filled bay that serves as an excellent landing spot for kayaks. There is also a dock and boat moorings located in the bay. The high cliffs where the Nolla cottages are located offer a spectacular view of the Gulf of Finland. The elevation difference and dense forest create a unique atmosphere between the mainland and the island. Each Nolla cabin boasts a stunning sea view.
The departure port is just a 10-minute metro ride from downtown Helsinki, and the boat trip to the island takes only 20 minutes.
Access to the island
You can arrive at the island by your own boat, kayak, or by utilizing the provided boat service. If you are using the boat service, please purchase a boat ticket when making your reservation. The departure time depends on the date and the cabin number you have chosen. We operate to the island with a 1950s wooden boat, which accommodates a maximum of 8 passengers at a time. Please show the reservation confirmation to the boat driver when boarding.
From April 17 to June 2 and August 19 to October 31
Departure from Keilaranta Marina at 16:30 or 17:15
Return from Tvijälp dock at 16:50 or 17:35
From June 3 to August 18
Departure from Keilaranta Marina at 12:45 or 13:30
Return from Tvijälp dock at 13:05 or 13:50
The departure point for the shared transport is Keilaranta Marina in Keilaniemi, Espoo, at Kalanokankuja, 02150 Espoo. We recommend using public transport to reach the marina. The Keilaniemi Metro Station is about a 400-meter walk from the marina. You can also arrive at the island by your own boat, in which case please reserve a boat spot during your booking. At the island, Nolla's boat dock has cleats, and the water depth is approximately 2 - 2.5 meters. The number of boat spaces is limited.
You may check into the cabin half an hour after the boat’s departure time, and you must check out 45 minutes before the boat leaves so that our staff has time to inspect the cabins for the next visitors. Please also make sure to arrive at the dock in plenty of time before the shared transport departure.
About the cabins
The price includes accommodation for two. Nolla is best suited for two guests, but the cabin is equipped for two adults and two children. If you are traveling with a group of 3-4 people, please select additional person(s) when making your reservation so we can ensure there is enough space for everyone in the transport.
The Nolla cabins on Tvijälp Island are located on the southern side of the island, atop a high rocky hill (Nollas 3-7), and in the shade of the forest on the eastern side (Nollas 1-2). Nollas 1 & 2 are also pet-friendly. All cabins offer stunning sea views towards the Espoo archipelago. The terrain includes steep inclines, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments. Each cabin has sleeping arrangements for two adults, with bedding (duvets and pillows) provided. The beds can be converted into twin beds, allowing guests to sleep side by side on a larger bed.
The cabins are equipped with an electrical outlet, and power is available depending on weather conditions for charging devices. Additionally, they are furnished with a stove and heater. Please note that the cabins do not have refrigerators. Camping in Nolla is made easy with cooking utensils and recyclable tableware provided. Please remember to recycle your waste after your trip and take the dishes to the collection point near the dock.
For your trip, you will need to bring water, food, and either bed linens or a sleeping bag – everything else can be found in the Nolla cabins! You may also choose to rent sheets, which will be delivered to your cabin in advance.
Activities and services on the island
Tvijälp is an excellent choice if you want to relax in the peace of nature without doing much at all. It offers the feeling of a deserted island not far from the city’s hustle and bustle. The island’s incredible nature surprises with its diversity. From the smooth bedrock of the southern side to the ancient forests on the northern side, you can find glacial boulders and incredibly tall, old trees. The northern part of the island also features a small, untouched sandy beach.
For those craving activities, the island offers options such as renting a rowboat, SUP boards, or kayaks for your trip. The sheltered inner archipelago provides excellent conditions for water activities. The equipment we provide for water activities is of high quality, ensuring a pleasant and safe experience on the water. Life jackets are included in the rental. When moving on the water, please always wear the life jacket and be responsible in your actions.
You can also choose an additional service: a scenic archipelago cruise of just over an hour. The skipper will take you and your companion to admire the stunning landscapes of Espoo and Helsinki’s inner archipelago. You can read more about the archipelago cruise and other experiences offered by Nolla here.
The island also has a covered barbecue area, with a gas grill and accessories available for use. Lighting an open fire on the island is strictly prohibited. There are dry toilets on the island for the use of visitors.
Practical information
The island's nature is unique and valuable, and we all have a responsibility to respect the surrounding environment. We ask visitors to stay only on the rocks and existing trails of the island. In the spring, the island is also home to birds, for which nesting peace must be ensured. The island is not private, so there may be other hikers present at the same time.
Please note when planning your trip that the island has no services, staff, or running water, and it is partly difficult to access. When the transport boat leaves the dock, it will not return until the next day. Be sure to bring enough water and food with you. If you have health concerns, we do not recommend staying on the island. Also, remember that Nolla is not a hotel but a holistic nature tourism experience.
It is very important that you leave Nolla tidy for the next guest. We will send you a link to the Nolla guidelines in an information message five days before your trip. The link can also be found under the booking calendar. Please review them carefully in advance.
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The booking calendar for the 2025 is now open!
