The Ritajärvi Nature Reserve was established in spring 2015 by a protection decision of the Pirkanmaa ELY Centre. Covering 127 hectares, the area is located in the heart of Sastamala, at the center of a triangle formed by the towns of Vammala, Häijää, and Kiikoinen. The distance to Vammala is 20 km, to Tampere 50 km, and to Pori 75 km.

Please be mindful that navigation systems coming from Pori may incorrectly guide you onto private roads. The correct route is via the Pori–Tampere Highway (VT11) to the Häijää roundabout, then Sastamala Road (249), Horniontie, and Ritajärventie.

You can download the Ritajärvi map here: retkipaikka.fi/ritajarven-luonnonsuojelualue-sastamala. The color-coded trails are: blue for Valkeajärvi, red for Ylinen Ritajärvi, and yellow for Alinen Ritajärvi. The natural environment of the area consists of a unified and varied habitat of small wilderness-like forest lakes and their connecting streams featuring diverse habitats with forest structures resembling natural conditions. It is especially known for its rocky terrain and massive boulders.

The core of the reserve includes the surroundings of Valkeajärvi, Ylinen Ritajärvi, Alinen Ritajärvi, and the western part of Heinijärvi with Ritarijärvi in the southern part of the area. The Louhi cabin and Paavinhattu hut cannot be reserved; however, the yard, campfire site, pier, and outhouse are always available for all visitors. Firewood is supplied only to the Paavinhattu lean-to. The road leading to Paavinhattu is a private cottage road and closed to other traffic by a barrier.

At least the trail to Valkeajärvi is often accessible even in winter. The most popular and shortest route to Valkeajärvi usually remains open thanks to visitors.

Overnight stays are not allowed in the Ritajärvi Nature Reserve. The hiking trails in Ritajärvi are maintained by Sastamala Sports Services. Please send any feedback regarding the trail conditions to: liikuntapalvelut@sastamala.fi.