Kuhmo Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Kuhmo, Finland? Get tips for what to see and do, where to stay, and local customs in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Kuhmo

Kuhmo is a small town located in the Northern parts of Finland, within the Kainuu region. It is known for its beautiful nature and tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Kuhmo is home to several well-known music festivals and cultural events throughout the year, attracting visitors from all over the world.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, activities to indulge in, local customs, and more in Kuhmo, Finland.

List of Places to Visit in Kuhmo

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

For those interested in history and culture, Kuhmo has several interesting museums and historical places to explore.

  • Kuhmo Museum: This museum showcases the cultural heritage and traditions of the region, including exhibits on traditional crafts, clothing, and hunting.
  • Kuhmo Arts Centre: This center is a hub for cultural activities and hosts events and exhibitions throughout the year.
  • Petola Nature Center: This nature center features exhibitions on the region’s wildlife and is perfect for families with children.

Natural Attractions of Kuhmo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kuhmo is known for its natural beauty and diverse outdoor activities. Here are some must-visit places for nature lovers:

  • Hiidenportti National Park: This park features a gorge and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for hiking and nature walks.
  • Lentua Nature Reserve: This reserve boasts stunning forests and lakes, where visitors can hike, fish, and kayak.
  • Boreal Wildlife Centre: At this wildlife center, visitors can observe bears, wolves, and other animals in their natural habitats.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kuhmo

For hiking and biking enthusiasts, Kuhmo offers several scenic routes and trails. Some of the popular ones include:

  • Martinselkonen Nature Reserve: This reserve has over 60 kilometers of hiking trails that are perfect for exploring the wilderness and spotting wildlife.
  • Hossa National Park: This park offers a variety of trails for hikers and bikers, from easy walks to longer, more challenging routes.
  • Wild Taiga: This network of routes and trails features beautiful forests and lakes and is perfect for off-road biking.

Best Things to Do in Kuhmo: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and outdoor activities, Kuhmo has a range of other fun things to do. Some of the best activities include:

  • Winter sports: Kuhmo is ideal for winter sports, such as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice-fishing.
  • Music festivals: The town hosts several music festivals throughout the year, including the famous Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival.
  • Boat tours: Visitors can explore the region’s beautiful lakes by going on boat tours, including the Hossa-Kuusamo waterway.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kuhmo

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Kuhmo:

  • Day 1: Visit the Kuhmo Museum and explore the town’s history and culture.
  • Day 2: Venture into Hiidenportti National Park for a day of hiking and nature walks.
  • Day 3: Take a boat tour around the Kuhmo lake and enjoy the breathtaking views.
  • Day 4: Visit the Boreal Wildlife Centre and observe bears and wolves in their natural habitats.
  • Day 5: Explore Hossa National Park on foot or by bike.
  • Day 6: Relax and enjoy the town’s music scene by attending a concert or festival.
  • Day 7: Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Petola Nature Center, where children can learn about the region’s wildlife.

Food and Drink Scene of Kuhmo

Must-Try Dishes

Kuhmo has several local dishes that visitors should try, including:

  • Karjalanpaisti: A traditional Finnish stew made with beef or reindeer and root vegetables.
  • Hernekeitto: A Finnish pea soup made with pork and potatoes.
  • Kalakukko: A fish-filled bread that is a specialty of the region.

Local Beverages

Kuhmo is known for its craft beers and other refreshing beverages, such as:

  • Kuhmo Brewery: This local brewery offers a range of beers, including lagers, ales, and stouts.
  • Blueberry juice: The region is also known for its delicious, locally-produced blueberry juice.
  • Kossu: A Finnish liquor made from caraway seeds and a popular after-dinner drink.

Where to Stay in Kuhmo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kuhmo has several options for accommodation, ranging from hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some popular choices for visitors:

  • Hotel Kalevala: This hotel boasts stunning views of the nearby lake and forests, and also has a restaurant that serves traditional Finnish cuisine.
  • Guesthouse Mustikka: A charming guesthouse located in the heart of Kuhmo, offering comfortable rooms and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Kuhmo Hostel: A budget-friendly option for travelers, with several dormitory and private rooms available.

What to Buy in Kuhmo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Kuhmo can bring home several unique and authentic souvenirs, such as:

  • Handicrafts: There are several shops and markets in Kuhmo that sell traditional Finnish handicrafts, such as wooden ornaments, knitwear, and ceramics.
  • Local honey: Kuhmo is known for its high-quality honey, which is produced by local beekeepers.
  • Blueberry products: As the region is known for its blueberries, visitors can find several locally produced blueberry jams, juices, and other treats.

Local Culture and Customs of Kuhmo

The people of Kuhmo are known for their hospitality and a strong connection to nature. Visitors should respect the local culture and customs when visiting, including:

  • Removing shoes before entering someone’s home or other indoor spaces.
  • Being mindful of noise levels, as Finnish people value quiet and solitude.
  • Taking care not to harm the environment, as Kuhmo’s natural beauty is a source of pride for the locals.

Best Time to Visit Kuhmo

The best time to visit Kuhmo is during the summer months (June-August), as the weather is pleasant, and there are several outdoor activities and festivals to enjoy. However, visitors can also visit the town during the winter months (December-February) for winter sports and experiencing the Northern Lights.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kuhmo

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take advantage of the town’s outdoor activities and beautiful nature.
  • Try the local dishes and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Disrupt the tranquility of the town.
  • Damage the environment.
  • Ignore the rules and regulations of the national parks and other natural areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kuhmo

Kuhmo is a safe town, with very low levels of crime. However, visitors should take the usual precautions when walking alone at night or in isolated areas.

Health in Kuhmo

As with the rest of Finland, Kuhmo has an excellent healthcare system, and visitors can access medical care if needed. However, visitors should take precautions to prevent tick bites during their stay in Kuhmo’s natural areas.

Getting to Kuhmo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kuhmo

The nearest international airport to Kuhmo is Kuusamo Airport, which serves several major cities in Finland and Europe.

Bus Stations Near Kuhmo

Several bus companies operate in the region, and Kuhmo is well-connected by bus services to other cities and towns in Finland.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Kuhmo by car or by train, with several car rental agencies and train services available in Finland.

How to Get Around in Kuhmo

Kuhmo is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot or by bike. Alternatively, visitors can rent a car or use the local bus services to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Kuhmo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kuhmo is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas, including:

  • Ruka-Kuusamo: A popular ski resort and a winter sports destination.
  • Oulanka National Park: Home to stunning landscapes, hiking routes, and raging rapids.
  • Taivalkoski: A charming town located on the banks of the scenic Kuusamo river.

Conclusion

Kuhmo, Finland, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique combination of beautiful natural landscapes, cultural activities, and outdoor adventures. Whether you are looking to relax and unwind or explore this stunning region, Kuhmo has something for everyone. This guide should help you plan a memorable trip to Kuhmo and make the most of your time in this beautiful Finnish town!

Winter War Museum Winter War Museum Main building in Tuupala Main building in Tuupala The lake Kälkänen The lake Kälkänen