Finland, a Scandinavian country known for its breathtaking landscapes, Northern Lights, sauna culture, and friendly locals, is a must-visit destination for travellers looking for unique experiences and adventures. While the main cities like Helsinki, Turku, and Tampere are popular tourist destinations, Finland offers much more. In this blog, we’ll highlight the hidden gems of Finland, off-the-beaten-path adventures that showcase the country’s natural beauty and culture. From hiking in national parks to spending the night in a glass igloo, we aim to give you some inspiration and practical tips to plan your extraordinary Finnish adventure.
Staying in a glass igloo
The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is a natural phenomenon seen in Finland from September to March. While it’s possible to see the lights from various parts of the country, one of the best ways to experience them is by staying in a glass igloo. Several hotels and resorts in Finland offer this unique experience, where you can sleep under the stars and watch the Northern Lights dance across the sky. Imagine waking up in the middle of the night to see the green lights illuminating the snowy Finnish landscape; it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Hiking in Hossa National Park
Hossa National Park should be on your Finland itinerary if you’re a nature lover. This stunning park is located northeast of Finland and has over 90 kilometres of hiking trails, crystal-clear lakes, and beautiful forests. One of the highlights of this park is the Julma Ölkky Canyon, a unique geological formation that dates back to the Ice Age. Hiking through this canyon is a one-of-a-kind experience, and you might even spot some reindeer or eagles along the way. The best time to visit Hossa is from June to September when the weather is mild and the days are long.
Snowshoeing in Lapland
If you’re visiting Finland during winter, snowshoeing in Lapland is a must-do activity. Lapland, located in northern Finland, is famous for its snowy landscapes, husky dog-sledging tours, and reindeer rides. But snowshoeing allows you to explore the Finnish wilderness at your own pace, and you might even see some wildlife along the way. The best time to go snowshoeing is from November to March, and you can join a guided tour or rent your snowshoes and go on your adventure.
Discovering Helsinki’s Street Art
While Helsinki is a beautiful city known for its design, architecture, and culture, it also has a vibrant street art scene waiting to be discovered. The city’s walls and alleys are covered with colourful murals, graffiti, and installations, which showcase the creativity of local and international artists. You can explore the street art scene on your own or join a guided tour, and there are also festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate street art in Helsinki.
Visiting the Koli National Park
Koli National Park, located in eastern Finland, is a hidden gem offering breathtaking Finnish countryside views. The park has over 80 kilometres of hiking trails and is home to the iconic Ukko-Koli hill, which provides the most magnificent panorama over Lake Pielinen. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, Koli National Park has something for everyone. You can also visit the Koli Nature Centre, which has exhibitions showcasing the park’s flora, fauna, geological history, and cultural heritage.
Finland is a destination that offers something for everyone, from nature lovers to city explorers and everything in between. By venturing off the beaten path and exploring this country’s hidden gems, you’ll discover some of the most stunning landscapes, unique cultural experiences, and extraordinary encounters with nature. Whether hiking in national parks, staying in a glass igloo, or discovering Helsinki’s street art scene, there are endless opportunities to experience the best of Finland. So why not start planning your Finnish adventure today?
