Tag Archive for: finland

A Springtime Escape to the Mire: Linnaistensuo is a beautiful nature destination in Lahti

As spring arrives and nature begins to awaken from its winter slumber, many hikers yearn for wide-open landscapes. One of the stunning natural gems in the Päijät-Häme region is closer to the city than you might think: Linnaistensuo mire in Lahti. Only about a 15-minute drive from the city center, this nature reserve offers an […]

Finns love birds – how to start birdwatching

The sun peeks out from behind the bay, and the crisp morning air is filled with the intense raucous calls of a black-headed gull colony. Up in the bird tower, a couple of spotting scopes are already visible with birders in tow – the crack of dawn is the best time for birdwatching. The photos […]

Is Water the Secret to Happiness in the Land of a Thousand Lakes?

Finland has once again, for the ninth consecutive year, claimed the top spot in the World Happiness Report. While there are many contributing factors—such as high life expectancy, a profound sense of freedom, safety, and low levels of corruption—could one explanation lie in our country’s vast and abundant waters? The continental ice sheet left Finns […]

An Ice-Cold Weekend Trip in South Ostrobothnia: Arpainen Hiking Trail

A friend invited me on a winter trek for Valentine’s Day weekend. Since she didn’t have much experience with winter camping yet, she was looking for a more seasoned companion to join her. I loved the idea immediately—of course we’re going! Article by Jonna Viitaniemi The forecast for the weekend promised biting cold, with temperatures […]

Kuusijärvi Outdoor Recreation Area and Smoke Sauna in Vantaa

Located right next to Sipoonkorpi National Park, you’ll find a unique lakeside environment perfect for a quick nature fix or a more intimate day at the beach. Despite the modest size of the lake itself, the Lake Kuusijärvi outdoor recreation area holds the title of Vantaa’s largest beach and is a popular recreational site owned […]

The Beautiful Medieval Chapel Ruins of Lemböte in Åland

About a 20-minute drive from Mariehamn lies the charming ruins of Lemböte Chapel, beautifully situated by the sea in a peaceful forest setting. The medieval chapel has been stylishly restored, and even today summer services and other events are still held there. Visitors can explore the site independently, and although the chapel itself is usually […]

Snorkeling in the Baltic Sea – What to Expect Along the Finnish Coast

Many are surprised to learn that Finland’s coast offers interesting opportunities for snorkeling. Although the Baltic Sea is relatively shallow and low in salinity, its underwater world is diverse and easy to explore even without diving equipment. Snorkeling gives visitors a new perspective on this northern sea and makes a seaside holiday in Finland even […]

Wild strawberries

Wild Strawberries – A Tiny Summer Treasure in Finland

Wild strawberries are a beloved summer delicacy in Finland. Much smaller and more aromatic than cultivated strawberries, they grow wild in forests and along roadsides. Finns enjoy them fresh, often threaded onto a blade of grass or mixed with bilberries and cold milk.