The lonely Ouninpohjantie in Finland is a legendary road in rallies
Ouninpohjantie is a very lonely road located in Finland. The rally car driver Mikko Hirvonen, in 2011, defined the road as ‘the best road in the world.’
Where is Ouninpohjantie?
The road straddles the Central Finland and Pirkanmaa regions, in the southern part of the country.
How long is the Ouninpohjantie road?
The road is 17.4 km (10.81 miles) long, running west-east from Velu to Mutanen.
Is the Ouninpohjantie road unpaved?
The road is entirely unpaved with very steep sections and narrow parts. It’s usually suitable for most passenger vehicles.
Why is the Ouninpohjantie road famous?
The road is part of Rally Finland, also known as the 1000 Lakes Rally. It’s said to be the fastest and toughest stage, and one of the best stages in the whole WRC season. Due to its difficulty and the speeds involved, Ouninpohja has a reputation for being one of the most demanding and dangerous rally stages. Drivers often cite it as a highlight of the WRC calendar. Ouninpohja is especially noted for its high speeds and spectacular jumps. Rally cars can reach speeds of over 200 km/h (124 mph) on this stage, and the numerous crests and jumps test the skills and courage of the drivers.
How’s driving the Ouninpohjantie road?
It’s quite wide and has a very firm surface with a series of bends and crests. The road is filled with famous corners and sections such as the “Yellow House Jump,” where cars can get airborne. The jumps and blind crests make it a thrilling and challenging stage for drivers and a favorite among rally fans.
Where was Tomorrow Never Dies filmed?
The road offers stunning views of a few lakes and the country’s nature. Beyond its role in the WRC, Ouninpohja is ingrained in Finnish motorsport culture. It is celebrated in various media, including video games like the Colin McRae Rally series, which feature it as a key stage. It was featured in the movie "Tomorrow Never Dies" (1997).