Nestled in a remote part of Northern Europe, Finland is home to stunning forests, thousands of sparkling lakes, vibrant city life and the ethereal phenomenon of the Northern Lights. Known as the “Land of a Thousand Lakes”, Finland is a sparsely populated country with everything from the coastal archipelago in the south to the vast expanse of Finnish Lapland. Finnish culture is a unique blend of Nordic traditions and a distinct national identity. The sauna is an integral part of Finnish life, a space for relaxation and contemplation. Finns also have a deep respect for nature, which is evident in their sustainable lifestyle and the many national parks across the country. Finnish cuisine is a hearty mix of local produce, fresh fish and game. Rye bread, salmon soup and Finnish meatballs are some of the traditional dishes you must try. As for religion, most Finns are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland.
After a lot of research and consideration, I signed up with “Arctic Adventures”, a travel agency known for providing comprehensive and eco-friendly tours in Northern Europe. Their “5 Days of Wonders of Finland” tour includes the capital Helsinki, the medieval town of Porvoo, the rugged beauty of Nuuksio National Park and a magical trip to Rovaniemi in Lapland.
landing in Helsinki
Upon landing in Helsinki, I was greeted by our guide Eric, a local expert who embodies a unique combination of grit, resilience and determination. Eric shared fascinating insights and local stories, making our trip inspiring.
Days 1 and 2: Helsinki
Our journey begins in cosmopolitan Helsinki, where cutting-edge design meets historic splendor. The city’s skyline is dotted with modernist and neoclassical buildings that tell the story of the city’s journey through time.
We checked into the luxurious Camp Hotel. Nestled in the heart of the city, the hotel exudes old world charm while offering state-of-the-art amenities. Its convenient location made it easy for us to explore the city, with the main sights just a short walk away. Luxurious rooms with fantastic city views and impeccable service. An added bonus is the delicious breakfast served in the hotel restaurant, which includes a variety of Finnish delicacies from local berries to various cheeses and rye bread.
Helsinki offers many attractions, but the most notable is Suomenlinna sea fortress. A short ferry ride brings us to this historic island, a fortress that whispers stories of the city’s past amidst expansive greenery and panoramic ocean views.
In the evening we explored the Design District, a vibrant neighborhood showcasing Finnish design and creativity. Dining in Helsinki is an absolute treat. We had a great dinner at the famous Savotta Restaurant near Senate Square, where we sampled traditional Finnish food, including classic salmon soup and reindeer fillets.
Esplanadi Park, near our hotel, is a haven of tranquility. Lush green lawns flanked by historic buildings and modern boutiques, this urban park is perfect for a leisurely walk or a quiet cup of coffee at one of its charming sidewalk cafés.
Day 3: Porvoo and Nuuksio National Parks
On the second day, we set out to explore the medieval town of Porvoo. Porvoo’s cobbled streets are lined with charming wooden houses, as if straight out of a fairy tale. We had a leisurely lunch at Zum Beispiel restaurant in the old town, tasting delicious homemade pies and traditional Finnish pastries.
In the afternoon, we venture into the pristine wilderness of Nuuksio National Park, a place of breathtaking forested hills and beautiful lakes. Our home, Hawkhill Nature Villas, is the perfect hideaway surrounded by nature. While the facilities are rustic compared to city hotels, the tranquility of the surroundings more than makes up for it.
Here we enjoy a delightful dinner of locally sourced fish and foraged mushrooms cooked over an open fire. A walk by the lake at dusk is the perfect way to end the day, with the peaceful scenery reflecting beautifully in the calm waters of the lake in the fading light.
This exploration of Helsinki, Porvoo and Nuuksio gave us a great insight into Finnish culture, cuisine and stunning scenery. The journey continues and I am excited about the new experiences that await in the land of the midnight sun.
Days 4 and 5: Lapland to Rovaniemi
Our journey then takes us to Rovaniemi, the heart of Finnish Lapland, a place that seems to have sprung straight out of a winter fairytale. Known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi is a fascinating mix of urban conveniences and untamed wilderness.
Our accommodation for the next two days was the Arctic Tree House Hotel, a marvel nestled in the tranquility of a Lappish forest. These comfortable, modern suites on stilts offer panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness and, if you’re lucky, the hypnotic dance of the Northern Lights. Although the location of the hotel is slightly away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the immersive nature experience is definitely a treat.
A visit to Santa Claus Village, located just inside the Arctic Circle, is nothing short of magical. We met Santa Claus, explored the bustling Elf Post Office, and took a memorable walk through the Christmas-themed village. Enjoy a hearty lunch at the village restaurant Kotahovi, starting with a comforting bowl of Lappish soup followed by a hearty reindeer dish.
A reindeer sleigh ride through the frigid landscape is a highlight of the trip. Wrapped in warm blankets, we glide through the snowy forest, the soft jingle of reindeer bells filling the crisp air. Back at the hotel’s restaurant Rakas, we had a home cooked dinner of traditional Lappish food made with fresh local ingredients.
Our last night was spent on an unforgettable Northern Lights tour. Led by an experienced local, we venture into the snowy wilderness in hopes of spotting the ethereal Northern Lights. As we huddled around the crackling fire and sipped hot berry juice, the sky began its magical show, showering us with waves of green and purple light that left us awestruck.
We woke up to a hearty Nordic breakfast at our hotel on our last day in Lapland. As we looked out over the peaceful forest from our dining table, the morning light reflecting off the snow created a dreamlike scene.
Throughout the trip, I was overwhelmed by the amazing scenery of Finland and warmed by the hospitality of the Finns. I have developed a deeper appreciation for this beautiful country and its rich culture. For anyone looking for an immersive nature experience, Finland is a destination not to be missed.
My journey through the breathtakingly beautiful landscapes of Finland will stay with me forever. Looking back on this journey, I am filled with a sense of accomplishment and awe at Finland’s unique culture and landscape.
