Tag Archive for: winter

Winter Sauna & Ice Dip Experience: This is Löylykontti in Kivenlahti, Espoo

Photo: Löylykontti On a cold February evening, a small group walks along the shore of Kivenlahti searching for a container building, which is said to hide a sauna and its warmth inside. We park the car in a free parking area near the marina. After walking a few hundred meters, we spot the faintly lit […]

A rainy and gray spruce forest with the ground covered in lush green moss. A person stands in the forest, looking up.

A Rainy Forest Stroll? Definitely! Tips for Enjoying It

Winters in Southern Finland are often rainy these days. See how you can enjoy the forest in rainy weather – it’s surprisingly wonderful.

Juveninkoski in Jämsä is the tallest waterfall in Central Finland

A quick detour from Highway 9 brings you to Central Finland’s tallest free-flowing waterfall in the village of Partala, Jämsä. On a mild January day, the falls flowed freely, surrounded by impressive icy formations. Put on your studded boots and head to the falls! We arrived in the village of Partala by car from Highway […]

How to Survive Winter in Finland: A Compact Guide

Survive Finland’s winter like a local! From dressing in layers to winter driving tips—practical advice for cold weather living.

The terrain in Nuuksio is hilly, and during winter, there is often plenty of snow—much more than just a stone’s throw away in Helsinki.

Visit Nuuksio National Park: Tips for Beginners

Plan your first adventure to Nuuksio National Park with these essential tips! Learn about trails, gear, safety, and how to make the most of your day in Finnish nature. Embarking on a hike in Nuuksio National Park right next to Helsinki offers a chance to experience pristine Nordic nature. This article will help you prepare […]

An ice swimming moment relaxes the body and refreshes the mind.

What Does Ice Swimming Feel Like?

Although it might sound extreme, plunging into an icy lake is more than a thrill—it’s a way to unwind and reset. In the icy embrace of winter waters, daily worries fade, and inner peace emerges. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what this unique experience feels like. 1. A Warm Start in the Dressing Room The […]

Winter Magic at Vantaankoski rapids: A Quick Escape to Nature near Helsinki

The Vantaankoski Nature Trail is a one-kilometer loop trail that runs along paths, boardwalks, stairs, and bridges by the shores of Vantaanjoki river. The destination is easily accessible via direct bus connections from Helsinki and is beautiful even in winter. I walked the trail myself on a January morning when the sun rose magnificently behind […]

From Scorching Heat to Ice-Cold Water – Why Finns Do This and How You Can Experience Ice Swimming Too

Finns have a strong connection to nature, and winter swimming – known in Finnish as avanto or avantouinti – is a prime example of it. This pastime combines the wintry outdoors, fresh air, and Finland’s deep-rooted sauna culture, which for many Finns is an essential part of everyday life. In principle, winter swimming can suit […]

An Easy and Stunning Snowshoeing Trail on Koli’s Peaks in Eastern Finland

One of Finland’s most beautiful and easiest snowshoeing trails runs through the national landscapes of Koli, and despite its short distance, it is impressive. The Koli Peaks Snowshoe Trail is an official route maintained by Metsähallitus, intended solely for travel by snowshoes. Its length is 1.9 kilometers, although you can also deviate on foot onto […]

Candlelit Swimming and Cold Shock – Testing Helsinki’s Allas Sea Pool

Photos: Allas Sea Pool Located next to Helsinki’s Market Square, Allas Sea Pool offers a unique combination of saunas, swimming pools, and sea views. Tested on a November evening, this sauna complex surprises with its warm pool, gentle steam, and atmospheric candlelit swimming – not to mention the invigorating cold shock provided by the five-degree […]