The Loimi river valley with its fertile lands and equine landscapes epitomizes countryside in Ypäjä. The ancient local pastures form an exceptionally large area of meadows and forest glades still grazed by horses, important contributors to Finland’s national heritage.

Ypäjä is a vibrant rural town of 2400 inhabitants in Southwestern Finland, some 140 kilometers from Finland’s capital city Helsinki and 75 kilometers from Turku, a regional center and a former capital city.

Ypäjä is best known for its prominent role in the Finnish equine industry, education, and breeding of the Finnhorse, Finland’s all-purpose national breed.

The Equine College brings exciting people and events to town. The largest and most famous event is the international Finnderby riding competition, organized every summer.