Originally a test cultivation farm, Mattila was considered a model example of its time. Various experimental farming methods were tested there, including sugar beet cultivation. The farm became a central hub of the village, complete with mills. Many locals earned their very first summer wages weeding sugar beet fields.

Over time, the farm fell into disrepair. In 2006, an extensive restoration project began. It started with the lakeside stable building, whose roof was in poor condition. The late owner, Clas Palmberg, was encouraged by his thengirlfriend – now wife – Sari to replace the roof. That suggestion soon sparked a much larger renovation effort. After all, Sari had—despite Clas’ earlier objections—brought her own horse to the stable. Clas agreed under two conditions: the renovation must not cost much, and it must not take long.

Years later, the site has grown into a successful Equine Service Center, featuring:

• Two stables
• A yearround indoor arena
• A full equine rehabilitation center
• Accommodation services
• Two restaurants
• Various activities
• The Woikoski Automobile Museum

The driving force behind the center is Sari Palmberg’s deep curiosity and passion for equine wellbeing. What began with ensuring the health and happiness of her own horses has grown into a mission to provide the same level of care for all horses entrusted to the center.

Woikoski Oy is a Finnish familyowned company specializing in industrial, foodgrade, and medical gases. The company is now run by the fourth generation of the Palmberg family, maintaining continuous family ownership since its founding. Woikoski has been an integral part of Finnish everyday life since 1882.