Old Mine – A Day Full of Surprises in Outokumpu

Honestly, the last time I was in this mine tunnel, I was about five years old. I remember it being cold, damp, and a little spooky. Well… I went back — and guess what? It’s still cold and damp… but also super exciting, because this time we joined an amazing guided children’s tunnel tour. It was absolutely top-notch!

🧭 How We Ended Up Here

The Old Mine (Vanha Kaivos) was high on our list the moment we chose Outokumpu as our next destination. We asked our Instagram followers for tips, and even though I was already familiar with some places in town, you never know what new gems pop up when you’ve been away!

(Like the petting zoo — we only heard about that the day after our visit... so nope, you can't know everything even when you ask!)

🚶‍♀️ The Old Mine Experience

We walked to the Old Mine from the upper path — my favorite approach because it really shows off the site's character. We crossed a pedestrian bridge, and I told the kids how, when I was little, the land below used to be “the land of mountain trolls”, where I played. I even remember a slide where you flew down on fabric mats!

Personally, I wish the main info center wasn’t on the “back side” of the site — this upper entrance is just so much more atmospheric.

We picked up our tickets, and the tunnel tour started right away — an interactive, treasure-hunt-style guided experience tailored for kids. Filming wasn’t allowed, so I won’t spoil it — but let’s just say, you have to try it yourself! It was fun, educational, and engaging for both children and adults. We learned about mining history, old tools, and what life was like underground — all through the lens of a playful treasure hunt.

💎 Gems, Exhibits & Unexpected Encounters

At the end of the tunnel was a rock and mineral museum, full of crystals and fascinating stones — honestly, we could’ve spent hours just looking at everything.

On a site there is also:

• Mine Tower (more on other post)

• Seasonal art exhibitions .

• Mine restaurant

• The largest children's playground in Eastern Finland! (More on other post)

🧡 Thank You, Outokumpu!

What an amazing day at the Old Mine.

We only share locations, where we have been exploring and visiting as a family of 10, you get very special things in our website!

Suomeksi: https://www.savolaisetseikkailee.fi/l/vanha-kaivos-lasten-kaivos/