Finnish Lakeland Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Finnish Lakeland with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover must-visit places, hiking routes, activities, food & drink scene, accommodations, and travel logistics, all in one place.


Introduction to Finnish Lakeland

Finnish Lakeland is located in Finland, one of the Nordic countries in Europe. It is a vast and picturesque region that has more than 187,888 lakes, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The region offers visitors a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions, including museums, historical sites, outdoor adventures, and scenic views. Finnish Lakeland is truly an all-in-one travel destination.

List of Places to Visit in Finnish Lakeland

If you’re planning to visit Finnish Lakeland, here are some of the must-visit places that you shouldn’t miss out on:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Savonlinna - Located on an island, this medieval castle is famous for its annual opera festival.
  2. Kerimäki - Home to the world’s largest wooden church, this town is a hub for tourists who love historical architecture.
  3. Lappeenranta - A picturesque fortress town that played a crucial role in history, dating back to the 1700s.

Natural Attractions of Finnish Lakeland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Koli National Park - Located in the eastern part of the region, it’s famous for its forested hills, clear water lakes, trails, and wildlife.
  2. Punkaharju Ridge - Known for its stunning panoramic views of the pristine lakes, forest, and hills.
  3. Puumala Archipelago - Comprising of hundreds of small islands, it’s perfect for kayaking, fishing, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Finnish Lakeland

Finnish Lakeland has numerous hiking and biking routes that offer visitors an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the region. Here are some of the best trails:

  1. Linnansaari National Park - A 70-kilometer trail that takes hikers through the islands, forests, and bays of the park.
  2. Valkeakoski Canal Trail - This 27-kilometer trail takes you by the Tammerkoski rapids, canal locks, and passing waterfalls.
  3. Kalajärvi Lake Trail - A 26-kilometer trail that takes bikers through the forest and around one of the largest lakes in the area.

Best Things to Do in Finnish Lakeland: Activities and Tours

Finnish Lakeland has a wide range of activities and tours on offer to keep visitors engaged throughout their stay. Here are some of the best things to do:

  1. Visit a traditional Finnish Sauna - Experience an authentic Finnish sauna experience, complete with fresh birch twigs and a dip in the lake.
  2. Bear Watching Safari - Go on a bear watching tour and observe the bears in their natural habitat.
  3. Snowshoeing and Cross-country Skiing - Winter sports enthusiasts can explore snowy forests and frozen lakes, renting equipment and going on tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Finnish Lakeland

If you’re wondering how to make the best use of your time in Finnish Lakeland, here’s a suggested week-long itinerary that will allow you to explore the region to the fullest:

  • Day 1-2: Savonlinna and Linnansaari National Park
  • Day 3-4: Puumala Archipelago and Koli National Park
  • Day 5-6: Punkaharju Ridge and Valkeakoski Canal Trail
  • Day 7: Visit a traditional Finnish Sauna and try some local cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Finnish Lakeland

Finnish Lakeland’s food scene is heavily influenced by regional produce, especially its freshwater fish. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Kalakukko - A traditional fish dish that consists of rye dough and a filling of fish and pork.
  2. Karelian Pies - Made of rye flour and filled with rice or mashed potatoes; a popular Finnish snack.

Local Beverages

  1. Cranberry Juice - Produced locally and served with almost every meal.
  2. Cloudberry Liqueur - A popular Finnish drink made from the Cloudberries that grow wild in the region.

Where to Stay in Finnish Lakeland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Finnish Lakeland has accommodations to suit every budget and preference, ranging from luxury spas to rustic cabins in the woods. Here are some recommendations:

  1. Rantasipi Hotel - A great hotel that offers beautiful lake views, delicious food, and luxurious spa treatments.
  2. Camping Nyyssänniemi - This campsite is located on the shores of Lake Päijänne, offering guests the chance to stay in a tipi or a yurt.
  3. Guesthouse Lakeland - A cozy guesthouse in the rural countryside with classic Finnish design, saunas, and a Finnish breakfast buffet.

What to Buy in Finnish Lakeland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Finnish Lakeland is known for producing some unique regional products. Here are some souvenirs that you can bring home:

  1. Handcrafted Porcelain and Glassware - Made by local artisans and inspired by the natural surroundings.
  2. Berry Jams, Marmalades, and Honey - Made from locally-sourced fresh berries and honey.

Local Culture and Customs of Finnish Lakeland

Finnish culture values simplicity, nature, and honesty. The traditional Finnish lifestyle places emphasis on sauna culture, berry picking, and fishing. It’s also important to respect the privacy and personal space of others.

Best Time to Visit Finnish Lakeland

The best time to visit Finnish Lakeland is during the summer months (June-August). The weather is mild and pleasant, with lots of sunshine and warmer temperatures. Autumn is also a great time to visit if you want to experience the colorful foliage and harvest season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Finnish Lakeland

Do:

  • Take off your shoes at the entrance when visiting someone’s house.
  • Use public transportation when possible.
  • Respect the environment and clean up after yourself.

Don’t:

  • Interrupt someone while they are speaking.
  • Try to start a conversation with a stranger on public transportation.
  • Toss trash on the ground or in the water.

Safety and Health

Safety in Finnish Lakeland

Finland is a safe country, but it’s always advisable to take the necessary precautions. Common sense, like not leaving valuable items unattended, is essential. And be careful when driving in the winter, as snow and ice can make the roads treacherous.

Health in Finnish Lakeland

The health care system in Finland is top-notch, and visitors can access medical attention if required for a fee. Tap water in Finnish Lakeland is safe to drink, so you don’t have to worry about carrying a water bottle everywhere you go.

Getting to Finnish Lakeland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Finnish Lakeland is accessible via road, air, and rail, all of which are well-maintained and efficient. Here are some options:

Airports Near Finnish Lakeland

  1. Jyväskylä City Airport
  2. Savonlinna Airport
  3. Tampere-Pirkkala Airport

Bus Stations Near Finnish Lakeland

  1. Helsinki - Kamppi Long Distance Bus Station
  2. Jyväskylä Bus Station
  3. Savonlinna Bus Station

Other Options

  1. Train - Finnish railway network is highly efficient
  2. Car Rental - Finnish Lakeland is perfect for road trips

How to Get Around in Finnish Lakeland

Finnish Lakeland is mostly rural, and public transportation is limited. To get around, renting a car or bike is a popular option. Taxis are also readily available.

Where to Go Next from Finnish Lakeland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time in Finland and want to explore other regions, here are some recommended excursions to nearby destinations:

  1. Helsinki - The capital of Finland, famous for its historic architecture and cafe culture.
  2. Turku - A vibrant city in the southwest known for its historic castle and nighttime market.
  3. Lapland - Home to the Northern Lights and reindeer sled rides.

Conclusion

Finnish Lakeland is a traveler’s paradise with a mix of beautiful scenery, cultural landmarks, and outdoor activities. This travel guide offers a comprehensive overview of the region, which will help you plan a memorable trip to this part of the world. Come experience the best that Finnish Lakeland has to offer!

Olavinlinna Castle in Savonlinna Olavinlinna Castle in Savonlinna Savo dialect on a sign in Savonlinna Savo dialect on a sign in Savonlinna Suonenjoki railway station Suonenjoki railway station View to the north from Puijo observation tower in Kuopio View to the north from Puijo observation tower in Kuopio Lakeside smoke sauna in Kannonkoski, Central Finland Lakeside smoke sauna in Kannonkoski, Central Finland Fried vendace (''muikku'') fresh from the market, Pieksämäki Fried vendace (''muikku'') fresh from the market, Pieksämäki


    Central Finland
    North Karelia
    North Savonia
    Pirkanmaa
    Saimaa
    South Savonia