Finland, a land of vast forests and over 180,000 lakes, is a country deeply connected to its natural environment. From its unique language, which belongs to the Uralic family, to its cherished traditions, Finnish culture is a fascinating blend of indigenous heritage and Nordic influences. The country’s history is marked by its position between two major powers, Sweden and Russia. For nearly 500 years, Finland was a part of the Kingdom of Sweden, a period that tied it to Western cultural norms and legal systems. After the Finnish War in 1809, it became an autonomous Grand Duchy of the Russian Empire. This era fostered a sense of Finnish nationalism, culminating in the declaration of independence on December 6, 1917, after the Russian Revolution. One of the most defining aspects of Finnish life is the sauna. It’s more than just a place to bathe; it’s a social institution, a place for relaxation, and a sanctuary for both the body and mind. The ritual of “löyly” — the steam produced by throwing water on the heated stones and the invigorating contrast of heat and cold are central to the experience. We had the opportunity to enjoy this tradition at Ranuanjärvi Camping and Camping Silversand, both of which offered excellent saunas in a beautiful, serene setting. Finland is also renowned for its commitment to design, technology, and a high quality of life. The country consistently ranks among the happiest in the world, a testament to its strong social welfare system, access to nature, and an egalitarian culture. Whether it’s the architectural masterpieces of Alvar Aalto, the functional design of brands like Marimekko, or the innovative spirit that gave birth to Nokia and Angry Birds, Finland’s creative and forward-thinking nature is evident everywhere you look.
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For us Finland has been nice at:
1# The Santa Claus village
At the Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, we were immediately struck by the festive atmosphere, which seemed to capture the Christmas spirit all year round. The most magical moment was crossing the Arctic Circle, a significant geographical landmark that runs right through the village. We also enjoyed meeting Santa Claus himself and sending postcards from the official Santa Claus Main Post Office, each stamped with a unique Arctic Circle postmark. The village offers a range of shops and restaurants, and we found it to be a charming and fun experience, especially for families.
2# Having a sauna in Filand
Our experience with Finnish saunas was truly unforgettable. We quickly learned that the sauna is a cherished ritual, a place for both physical and mental cleansing. The combination of intense heat and the invigorating steam, or “löyly,” was followed by a refreshing cool-down, leaving us feeling completely renewed. We had the pleasure of enjoying this authentic tradition at two different campsites, both of which provided a deeply satisfying taste of this essential part of Finnish culture.
3# Turku archipelago
Our time exploring the Turku Archipelago was a journey through a truly beautiful landscape. The scenery of thousands of islands, with their rugged shorelines and calm waters, was breathtaking. However, we found that the experience became a bit monotonous. Our main activity was taking a series of ferries, which, while a novel way to travel, left us wishing for more to do on the islands themselves. It felt as though the archipelago’s main appeal was the scenic ferry ride, without many other activities to engage in once we arrived. While the views were undeniably stunning, we felt a bit bored by the lack of other options.
4# Vaasa Archipelago
Our experience in the Vaasa Archipelago was truly memorable. This UNESCO World Heritage site, known as the Kvarken Archipelago, captivated us with its unique landscape shaped by post-glacial land uplift. The scenery is stunning, with a mosaic of islands and inlets. What made the Vaasa Archipelago so engaging was the variety of activities. We hiked along nature trails, exploring distinct geological features and crossed the Replot Bridge, Finland’s longest. There was a genuine sense of history and natural wonder, with always something new to discover. The Vaasa Archipelago offered a perfect balance of scenic beauty and engaging things to do, making our visit both peaceful and exciting.
5# Tampere and the Moomins
Our visit to Tampere was a delight, and the highlight was the Moomin Museum. Located in Tampere Hall, this unique museum is dedicated to the beloved Moomins, a family of fairy-tale trolls created by Finnish-Swedish author Tove Jansson. The museum is a truly immersive experience, showcasing Jansson’s original illustrations and intricate miniatures. We especially enjoyed seeing the famous Moomin House. It’s a captivating look into the mind of a brilliant artist and a wonderful piece of Finnish cultural history.
6# Rauma with the food
During our time in the charming town of Rauma, we discovered a local treat that we absolutely fell in love with: the Rauma doughnut. These doughnuts are not like the typical ones you might find elsewhere. They are a local specialty, often sold at bakeries in the old town. We found them to be delicious, with a unique texture and flavor that made them a truly memorable part of our visit. Enjoying these simple, yet wonderful doughnuts as we walked through the picturesque streets of Old Rauma was a perfect way to experience a little piece of the town’s culinary heritage.
7# Having some ice in summer
While in the Jakobstad region, we were able to visit two unique places. The Lillsand Swimming Beach is a beautiful, lagoon-like spot with soft sand and shallow water, perfect for a relaxing day. Nearby, the Arctic Museum Nanoq offered a fascinating contrast. The museum, whose name means “polar bear” in Greenlandic, provides an in-depth look into the history and cultures of the Arctic and Antarctica. Its collection of buildings, including a replica of a Greenlandic peat house, truly brought the stories of polar expeditions to life. The combination of the tranquil beach and the intriguing museum made for a very memorable day.
8# Kalajoki Sand Dunes in Summer
The Kalajoki Sand Dunes are a breathtaking natural wonder on the coast of the Bothnian Bay in Finland. The most striking feature is a long ridge of sand that stretches out into the sea, creating the magical illusion that you are walking on water. This unique landscape is constantly shaped by the wind and waves, making each visit a new experience. Beyond their visual appeal, the dunes are a popular destination for both relaxation and recreation. The area offers a variety of activities, from leisurely walks along the expansive beaches to more active pursuits like water sports. The presence of nearby hotels, restaurants, and a well-maintained camping area makes it a convenient and enjoyable place for a seaside getaway. It’s a truly special part of Finland, offering a rare blend of stunning natural beauty and a vibrant, yet peaceful, atmosphere.
9# The modern Oulu
Oulu impressed us as a surprisingly modern and innovative city, a vibrant hub in northern Finland. We found it to be a city with a forward-thinking, technological identity, often referred to as a “living lab.” This was evident in its extensive network of well-maintained cycle paths, which highlight a sustainable approach to urban life. The city’s unique charm comes from its blend of historical wooden buildings and sleek, contemporary architecture. Oulu feels like a city that is always looking to the future while respecting its past, making it a dynamic and engaging place to explore.
10# Helsinki the “innovative”
Our experience in modern Helsinki was a delight, showcasing the city’s unique blend of contemporary design, vibrant culture, and serene urban spaces. We were particularly impressed by four key places. The Helsinki Central Library Oodi captivated us with its stunning architecture and innovative approach to a public space. We loved the lively atmosphere of the Kauppatori market. We also discovered a gem in Kanniston Leipomo at Yliopistonkatu 7, a bakery that offered delicious treats. Finally, the tranquil and beautifully designed Kamppi Chapel provided a moment of peaceful reflection right in the heart of the bustling city.