Runtinmäen lähde, Runtinmäki, Mänttä-Vilppula, Finland

## Overview Runtinmäen lähde is a public drinking spring located in the Runtinmäki area of Mänttä-Vilppula, a municipality in the Pirkanmaa region of central Finland. Nestled in the Finnish countryside, this natural spring has historically served as a local water source for the surrounding community. The Mänttä-Vilppula area is known for its forested landscapes, lakes, and rich cultural heritage — including the renowned Serlachius museums — making this spring a worthwhile stop for visitors exploring the region. The spring sits at an elevation typical of the central Finnish lake district, where glacial deposits and sandy esker formations often give rise to naturally filtered groundwater springs. Finnish springs like Runtinmäen lähde have traditionally been valued for their cool, clean water, and many have been used as drinking water sources for generations. As with any natural water source, visitors should be aware that water quality can vary with seasons and conditions, and the water has not been independently verified as safe for consumption. ## Directions 1. Head toward the intersection (risteys) of **Runttimäentie** and **Ylövedentie** in the Runtinmäki area of Mänttä-Vilppula. 2. The spring is located near this crossroads. Look for the spring site close to the junction of these two roads. 3. **GPS coordinates:** 62.00235, 24.7173 — use these for precise navigation, as the spring may not appear on all standard maps. ## What to Expect Runtinmäen lähde is a natural spring in a quiet, rural Finnish setting. Visitors can expect a modest, traditional spring site surrounded by the boreal forest and open landscapes characteristic of the Mänttä-Vilppula area. The spring is publicly accessible and has been submitted as a public drinking spring by a local contributor. As this is a natural spring in a relatively remote area, there are unlikely to be formal facilities on-site. Bringing your own container for collecting water is recommended. The area around Mänttä-Vilppula offers additional attractions, including scenic lake views and the Serlachius art museums, so a visit to the spring can easily be combined with broader exploration of the region. Water flow and accessibility may vary by season — Finnish springs can be affected by snowmelt in spring and freezing conditions in winter. Summer and early autumn are typically the best times to visit.