Jyväskylä Karting Center

In Lievestuore, near Jyväskylä, in central Finland, the Jyväskylä Karting Center brings together several tracks on one site, in operation for around thirty years. The main outdoor track runs to twelve hundred and forty metres and works through the warmer months; in winter, an ice track takes over and completely changes the driving sensations; a track set aside for driver training rounds out the line-up all year. Few places offer such a range in one spot.

The centre suits drivers chasing their best lap as much as groups: an individual timing format lets you measure up, and the site happily hosts birthdays, weddings and corporate events. There are saunas, meeting rooms and catering, enough to put together a full day without leaving the place. Booking is advised, especially for groups and in high season.

Jyväskylä is a lively university town, set on the long lakes typical of Finland's lakeland. It is known for its architectural heritage, with several buildings by Alvar Aalto, and for its student feel. Between sessions, the region lends itself to walks by the water and, once winter comes, to plenty of activities on snow and ice. About three hours' drive from Helsinki, the town makes a handy stop for anyone exploring central Finland, and the karting centre rounds off a break in the region nicely.