While any place on Earth can represent a travel destination for someone, there are certain places where everyone goes or at least has heard of, more than necessary after some point. But luckily, there are also those places that few people know what they are all about, mysterious and authentic destinations that only some fortunate travelers get to discover. This is also the case for Finland, a country in the far north of Europe, yet amazingly green and characterized by its thousands of lakes and islands.
The country of reindeer, Santa Claus and the Northern Lights, Finland has many things to offer to avid adventurers, beyond its peaceful and organized towns and villages, lay the magnificent wilderness, a land where one can find nature at its best. A natural heaven at its core, the country is also a pleasant cultural destination, with many fascinating cities and towns.
The capital of Helsinki is simply elegant and charming, a combination of Russian and Nordic architecture, with the added charm of modern cities. Although small in comparison with other European capitals, Helsinki packs a veritable experience, with many interesting and inspiring landmarks and things to do.
Among the highlights of the capital, visitors should definitely include the magnificent Suonmenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fascinating discovery, the charming Senate Square, the Seurasaari Open Air Museum which presents the traditional architecture of rural Finland, Helsinki Zoo, the Lutheran Church, the many museums and so on. The city is also worth a visit for its shopping, cuisine and entertainment scene. While there are other urban destinations in Finland, most can only be thought of as towns, the most interesting including Rovaniemi, Savonlinna, Tampere, Turku and others.
But beyond the wonderful towns and the authentic villages, Finland is mostly made of amazing natural landscapes, although lacking tall mountains; it still has something special and enticing. With almost 200,000 lakes and almost the same amount of islands, the country is a boating heaven, one of the most popular transportation means for Finnish people. There are few things that can compare to visiting a national park and finding your own deserted island.
The north can transform to a real Arctic area in the winter, with magnificent spectacles of the Northern Lights. The Nuuksio, Riisitunturi or the Salamajarvi National Parks are just some examples from the unique natural destinations of Finland. The northern Lapland is the perfect place to try cross-country skiing or reindeer sledging, among others. It is also the place to look for Santa Claus, starting from the already world famous town of Rovaniemi.
Best Accommodation in Finland
Kolin Lotus Cottages 4*
Set 1.5 km from the town of Koli, Kolin Lotus Cottages are located close to Lake Pielinen. These self-catering, semi-detached cottages have a children’s playground and BBQ facilities. Each cottage at Kolin Lotus Cottages has a private sauna, fully equipped kitchen, washing machine and drying cabinet. Free firewood is provided. Swimming and fishing in the lake are common area activities.
Hotel Hanasaari 4*
Located in Espoo by the Baltic Sea, 10 minutes’ drive from Helsinki, this hotel features rooms with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Guests enjoy a free daily morning sauna and swim. The air-conditioned rooms of Hotel Hanasaari have either garden or sea views. All have modern décor and include a minibar. There is also a private beach area, and plenty of walking paths can be found in the surroundings.
Wilderness Hotel Inari & Igloos
Situated right by the shores of Lake Inari, Wilderness Hotel Inari & Igloos provides accommodation and activities. Equipped with a sauna and a shared lounge with bar, the hotel takes inspiration from Sami culture. Sleep in an aurora cabin with sky views, a log cabin facing Lake Inari, or a wilderness room with Lappish decorations. All rooms come with a bathroom with toiletries.
Cover Photo by Hendrik Morkel on Unsplash
