Article by Laura Hokka When I arrived at Heishala, I had no idea that I was about to enjoy one of the most relaxing and beautiful sauna experiences. Nestled along the banks of the Kemijoki River—just a few kilometers from the heart of Rovaniemi—a small, beautifully crafted wood-fired sauna stood in the yard of a […]
Experience the soothing warmth of traditional smoke saunas, embrace Karelia’s pristine nature, and discover local history at Hugon Cottages in Rautjärvi—just a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Helsinki.
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 […]
Winters in Southern Finland are often rainy these days. See how you can enjoy the forest in rainy weather – it’s surprisingly wonderful.
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 […]
Survive Finland’s winter like a local! From dressing in layers to winter driving tips—practical advice for cold weather living.
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
