Tag Archive for: winter

On the winter-quiet Ruostejärvi recreation area: Kurjenpolku trail, Tammela

The destinations of the Häme Lakeland are one more impressive than the next: Torronsuo and Liesjärvi National Parks, the Komio nature reserve, Saari Folk Park, the crystal-clear Melkutin lakes, and the recreation areas of Lake Pääjärvi and Lake Ruostejärvi (Rust lake)all offer beautiful trails to explore, the peace of the forest, the scent of labrador […]

Old-Growth Forests and Frozen Shores: A Christmas Walk in Liesjärvi National Park

The Christmas holidays, a grey sky, the lack of snow, and daylight lasting only a few short hours had wrapped Liesjärvi National Park in complete stillness when we arrived at the courtyard of the Korteniemi heritage farm on Christmas Day. The drive from Helsinki takes only about an hour and a half. We first walked […]

A beautiful little trail in Liesjärvi National Park in Tammela: the Ahonnokka Nature Trail

The heart of Liesjärvi National Park can, in a way, be found at its southern edge, where the Korteniemi Heritage Farm is located. This old forest ranger’s homestead serves as a beautiful, atmospheric starting point for hikes into the national park, radiating the spirit of times past. From one corner of the Korteniemi yard, you […]

Snowshoeing in the Pallastunturi Fells: Wonderful Views from the Slopes of Palkaskero

Snowshoeing, in the right conditions – above all on a firm, load-bearing snow crust – is a fun and fitness-boosting activity that will make you break a sweat even in freezing temperatures. In the Pallastunturi fells, there is a great destination for both beginners and more experienced snowshoers alike: Palkaskero. The route from the nature […]

The Best Sea View in Turku: Head to Kuuva on Ruissalo

Ruissalo in Turku is an island connected to the mainland by a bridge, offering nature lovers plenty to explore. We visited Ruissalo for an afternoon outing with the intention of experiencing two very different worlds: the University of Turku Botanical Garden and, just a few kilometres away, the coastal area of Kuuva. The wildly shifting […]

What to do in Finland’s snowless winter? These Are the Things I Would Choose Myself

This year again, it looks like there won’t be any snow in the southernmost parts of Finland for who knows how long. My sympathies to all of you who have travelled to Finland & Helsinki only to discover that the white winter wonderland you imagined is nowhere to be found. Instead, you’re greeted by grey […]

Christmas Sauna Traditions in Finland – Ancient Beliefs and Modern Tips

In Finnish Christmas traditions, going to the sauna — joulusauna a.k.a. the Christmas sauna — has long been one of the most important rituals. Old folk beliefs were filled with elves and spirits, and various charms were performed to ensure a good harvest in the coming summer. Most modern Finns no longer have flax fields […]

An Autumn Outing by the Baltic Sea: Our Trip and Tips for You!

The shores of the Baltic Sea are, in my opinion, among the loveliest places in Finland to visit in autumn—and even in winter. Winter is a long, dark season here in the north, and when everyday life keeps spinning, the mind now and then starts to crave a brisk refresh. Any nearby forest happily works […]

Heading to Finland to See the Northern Lights? Here’s How to Maximize Your Chances

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, are a mesmerizing natural phenomenon that fulfill the dreams of many travelers and nature enthusiasts. Northern Lapland, particularly places like Inari and Utsjoki, offers an excellent opportunity to witness this awe-inspiring spectacle. In this article, we will share tips on how to maximize your chances of […]

I Stood Barefoot in a Midwinter Forest — and Discovered the Power of Skin-to-Nature Contact

This personal story explores the quiet power of reconnecting with nature—skin to earth, moment to moment.