Finland is a northern European country known for its extraordinary natural landscapes, including forests, coastlines, and rivers. Finnish nature can captivate anyone and make their journey memorable. Beyond pristine nature, holidays and national festivals in Finland reflect the distinctive culture of the country, which can be a delightful experience. Nevertheless, the primary factor that attracts tourists the most is Finnish nature.

Best Places for Nature Enthusiasts in Finland

Finland earned its title as the “Land of a Thousand Lakes” due to its multitude of lakes. This distinction is due to natural ice sheets that covered the country in prehistoric times. Some lakes’ shores are surrounded by coniferous forests, enhancing the allure of the natural scenery. Rare Saimaa ringed seals inhabit certain areas, and near Paaselkä, you can see the remnants of an ancient meteorite impact.

The crystal-clear waters of the lakes create breathtaking views amidst countless forests. Along the prominent and tourist-filled coasts, you can rent a rowboat or motorboat. A favorite spot for avid anglers is Lake Niasjärvi near Tampere. The fishing season for rainbow trout begins in the summer.

Finland boasts around forty national parks, with one of the largest being Oulanka National Park. The splendor of the Sámi culture is centered in Pyhä-Luosto National Park. The Pyhä-Häkki National Park is filled with centuries-old trees, the oldest of which dates back half a millennium. In Riisitunturi National Park, you can take snowy forest walks and watch the Northern Lights.

The Olhava National Park is renowned for its dramatic peaks and mountain hills, where you can enjoy views of Lake Pielinen. Part of its territory is occupied by the popular Ukko-Koli ski resort. At Linnansaari National Park, you can encounter rare Saimaa ringed seals or Ospreys near Lake Saimaa. This tourist attraction features beautiful islands, rivers, and bays. Not far from the capital, Nuuksio National Park is the habitat for endangered animal species.

All of Finland’s national parks offer walking trails, nature trails, information boards, and picnic areas. In most national parks, camping, rental cabins, and more are available for everyone to use. Nature tourism guides also offer tours that allow you to explore the surroundings.

Winter in Finland Touring in Finland: The City of Helsinki

When it comes to visiting the most popular attractions in Finland, the first destination that comes to mind is the capital, Helsinki. Since Helsinki is a northern city on the coast, it enjoys a mild climate. Winters in Helsinki are typically snowy and long but not overly cold. Spring, summer, and autumn are cool and rainy (with about 120 rainy days out of 365). The warmest month is July, with an average temperature of +21 degrees Celsius. The coldest months are January and February when daytime averages are around 2 degrees Celsius, and nighttime temperatures can drop to -7 degrees Celsius.

The best place during Christmas time in Finland is likely to be the capital, Helsinki. Christmas markets, carnivals, and various shows captivate both adults and children. If you still prefer to explore Finnish nature, Helsinki will be an ideal choice for you. City posters always show you what recreational activities you can choose in each month of the year.

Wherever you are in Finland, you’re very close to nature.

Do you want to travel to lush forests, embark on adventures in the Arctic, or relax on the coast? Finland offers a suitable location for you. The plants and animals of this country are truly unique, especially when the Northern Lights illuminate the sky. Finland has more than 40 national parks scattered across its islands, lakes, forests, and waterfalls. Even a national park is just a 45-minute drive from the center of Helsinki and Helsinki Airport. Each national park is unique, and visitors to national parks can enjoy hiking, mountain climbing, boating, and more.

In fact, one of the main ideas behind creating Finland’s national parks was to provide people with the opportunity to relax in nature. Finland has an interesting law that allows people to go almost anywhere, provided they respect nature and leave no trash or traces behind.

Finnish Islands Finland is host to the largest archipelago in the world, with over 80,000 islands along its coastline. Many of them are easily accessible by car, bicycle, or a recreational boat. In the Finnish islands, you will experience tranquility and silence. Seals dipping in the water or migratory birds scattered in the skies during spring and autumn are scenes you will always encounter on these islands. In many forested islands, natural paths invite you to walk. With a ship, bridge, or road, you can reach several islands in a short period of time, and some of them are just off Helsinki. Combine a trip to the sea fortress island of Suomenlinna with good food and a warm sauna.

Finnish nature : Lakes of Finland

Finland is the land of thousands of lakes, boasting the largest lake region in Europe. This area is characterized by a labyrinth of lakes, forests, and islands all interwoven. Valleys and tunnels lead to hidden marshlands. Throughout the year, Finland is teeming with water, making it a popular destination for anglers, sailing enthusiasts, and ice skaters. Some tourists are completely captivated by the stunning natural landscapes of Finland, such as the world-famous view from Koli Hill overlooking Lake Pielinen.

Forests of Finland

Did you know that Finland is the most forested country in Europe? Over 70% of Finland is covered in forests. Pine, spruce, and birch trees can be found everywhere in Finland, even in the capital, Helsinki, where there are numerous forests and natural reserves. The land is blanketed with blueberry bushes, mosses, and more. The unique natural spots within Finland’s forests are highly appealing to anyone with a sense of adventure.

Finnish nature : Wildlife in Finland

The vast, lush forests, beautiful Baltic islands, polar waterfalls, and countless blue lakes make Finland a special haven for wildlife. These landscapes are home to brown bears, wolves, lynx, eagles, hawks, and some of the world’s rarest seals. Bird enthusiasts come to Finland to see species that are hard to find elsewhere in Europe. Wildlife photographers also travel to Finland to capture remarkable images of animals in their natural habitats through various excursions and special locations.

On average, only 18 people inhabit each square kilometer of Finland. Finland has the lowest population density in the European Union. Many animal species thrive in this low population density and some exist solely in Finland. One of the two freshwater seal species in the world is found in Finland, almost extinct at one point but recovering with various conservation efforts. The Siberian flying squirrel, found in the EU only in Finland and Estonia, is also subject to special protection.

Northern Lights in Lapland

Seeing the Northern Lights is on the bucket list of many people, as only about 2% of the world’s population has witnessed this astonishing phenomenon up close. Some are so mesmerized by the vivid colors in the night sky that they can’t take their eyes off them. Lapland is an ideal place to view the Northern Lights, attracting many tourists every year. In Lapland, the Northern Lights are visible on approximately 200 nights a year.

Important Tips for Exploring the Nature of Finland

• Along the coasts of Finland, take a stroll without a set path, breathe in the crisp, moist air, and experience a unique sense of tranquility. There are often cafes near the shores, and having a cup of coffee or tea there is a delightful experience.
• Don’t miss the historic Suomenlinna fortress. This fortress is a highly significant historical structure and served as a strategic point for the country in the past. It currently houses a large museum that fascinates visitors.
• Remember to visit the Helsinki Cathedral. This church has been considered a key symbol in shaping Helsinki’s history and identity, featuring distinct architecture.
• Explore the extraordinary exhibitions at the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art.
• Wander around the covered market halls full of delicious foods. Be sure to buy some souvenirs.
• Create your own memorable moments by renting a bicycle using a bike-sharing service you can find throughout the city. Exploring Finland’s culture and natural beauty this way is an extraordinary experience.
• Try your hand at fishing, as you can fish entirely for free in certain designated areas. However, remember you can’t catch more than three fish of a single species per day.
• Each residential building (including apartment buildings) has a steam room or sauna. Saunas are a very old tradition in Finland and are well worth experiencing.

If you need advice on immigrating to Finland, you can speak with our experts at the FinlandQ group and get the necessary guidance.