Stickelius Monument is a canine-sized stick-built tribute to the world-famous Sibelius Monument (Eila Hiltunen, copyright: Kuvasto 2025). Photo: Pyry Lepistö, Helsinki Partners
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More than 1,000 dogs took part in the launch of what organisers say is the world’s first sightseeing route designed especially for canine visitors.
The “Doggy Route to Happiness”, unveiled in Helsinki over the weekend, offered four-legged tourists and their owners a series of tailored attractions, from a stick-built replica of the city’s Sibelius Monument to a “pup-up” café and a dog-only island. The event coincided with the World Dog Show 2025, held in the Finnish capital.
The centrepiece, dubbed the Stickelius Monument, was created by local rescue dog Neris, known for collecting sticks and turning them into public art. Built at one-quarter scale of Eila Hiltunen’s original Sibelius Monument, the structure quickly became a highlight, with some visitors calling for it to be made permanent.
More than 200 dogs visited “dogographer” Fanny Haga’s photo wall. Photo: Fanny Haga, Helsinki Partners
Another stop on the route was Café Dogatta, located next to the popular seaside Café Regatta. The tour’s permanent fixture is Rajasaari Island, a free-access, 24-hour dog park featuring forest trails, beaches and swimming spots, located across the water from the residences of Finland’s president and prime minister.
The city’s head of brand and PR at Helsinki Partners, Soila Lehkonen, said the project was designed to celebrate the role of pets in urban life. “Pets boost happiness. We wanted to bring attractions to some of the city’s most beloved outdoor spots, places that both dog owners and their dogs can enjoy together,” she said.
Helsinki, home to around 40,000 dogs, offers more than 90 dedicated dog parks, several dog beaches and a 50-hectare forest for canine use. Dogs are allowed in most shops, cafés and restaurants, and ride for free on public transport.
Organisers say the Doggy Route to Happiness underlines the city’s ambition to provide an inclusive environment where residents and visitors, whether on two legs or four, can share in Helsinki’s quality of life.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
