Unknown Finland
Finland is a country that is often associated with cold weather, beautiful northern lights, and heavy metal music. But there is so much more to this Nordic nation than what meets the eye. From its stunning natural landscapes to its vibrant culture, Finland is a country that is waiting to be explored.
One of the best ways to discover Finland’s hidden gems is to venture off the beaten path and explore the lesser-known regions of the country. In this article, we will take a deep dive into some of the most fascinating and unknown parts of Finland.
- Koli National Park
Located in the eastern part of Finland, Koli National Park is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by visitors. The park is home to some of the most breathtaking views in Finland, with its rolling hills and pristine lakes. It is also home to Finland’s most famous painting, “The Lake Keitele” by Akseli Gallen-Kallela.
The park has a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks. One of the most popular routes is the Ukko-Koli trail, which offers stunning views of Lake Pielinen and the surrounding landscape. The park is also a great place to spot wildlife, such as moose, lynx, and brown bears.
- Oulu
Located in the northern part of Finland, Oulu is the largest city in the region of Northern Ostrobothnia. Despite its size, Oulu is often overlooked by tourists, making it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowds.
One of the highlights of Oulu is its beautiful waterfront, which is lined with parks and cafes. The city is also known for its vibrant music scene, with numerous festivals and events taking place throughout the year.
For those interested in history, Oulu has a number of museums and historic sites worth visiting. The Oulu Museum of Art and the Northern Ostrobothnia Museum are both excellent options for those looking to learn more about the region’s culture and heritage.
- Porvoo
Located just 50 kilometers east of Helsinki, Porvoo is one of Finland’s oldest towns. It is known for its colorful wooden houses, narrow streets, and beautiful riverfront.
One of the highlights of Porvoo is the Old Town, which dates back to the 14th century. The area is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Porvoo Cathedral and the Town Hall.
Porvoo is also a great place to explore Finland’s culinary scene. The town is known for its local delicacies, including smoked fish and cinnamon buns.
- The Åland Islands
The Åland Islands are an archipelago located between Finland and Sweden. The islands are an autonomous region of Finland and are known for their stunning natural beauty.
The islands are home to a variety of wildlife, including seals, eagles, and otters. They are also a popular destination for fishing and boating enthusiasts.
For those interested in history, the Åland Islands are home to a number of historic sites, including the Bomarsund Fortress and the Kastelholm Castle.
- Rovaniemi
Located in the northern part of Finland, Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland and is known as the official home of Santa Claus.
One of the highlights of Rovaniemi is the Santa Claus Village, which is a popular destination for families. The village is home to Santa’s official post office, where visitors can send letters to Santa Claus.
Rovaniemi is also a great place to experience Finland’s natural beauty. The city is located on the Arctic Circle, and the surrounding wilderness is home to a variety of wildlife, including reindeer and arctic foxes.
In conclusion, Finland is a country that is full
How to get to Finland and where to stay.
Getting to Finland:
Finland has several international airports, with Helsinki Airport being the largest and busiest. Helsinki Airport is well connected to major cities across Europe and Asia, with direct flights from cities such as London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Moscow, and Beijing. Other airports in Finland include Oulu, Turku, Rovaniemi, and Vaasa, which offer domestic and regional flights.
If you are traveling from neighboring countries, Finland is also well connected by rail and road. The Eurostar train service connects Helsinki to St. Petersburg and Moscow, while the Nordic Express bus service connects Helsinki to cities in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.
Where to stay:
Finland has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, including hotels, hostels, cabins, and campsites. Here are some popular options:
- Hotels: Finland has a variety of hotels ranging from budget options to luxury hotels. Some popular chains include Scandic, Radisson Blu, and Sokos Hotels.
- Hostels: Hostels are a great option for budget-conscious travelers. Finland has several hostels located in major cities such as Helsinki, Turku, and Tampere. Some popular hostels include Eurohostel, CheapSleep Hostel Helsinki, and Hostel Linnasmäki.
- Cabins: Cabins are a popular accommodation option for those looking to get closer to nature. Finland has several cabin rental options, with cabins ranging from basic to luxury. Some popular cabin rental companies include Lomarengas and Holiday Club Resorts.
- Camping: Finland is a great destination for camping enthusiasts. The country has several campsites located in national parks and other scenic locations. Some popular campsites include Nuuksio National Park Camping, Oulanka National Park Camping, and Ruka Camping.
In conclusion, Finland is a great destination for travelers looking to explore the lesser-known regions of the country. With its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant culture, and range of accommodation options, Finland has something to offer everyone.
