Lakeland Cities and National Parks

Fly to Helsinki, collect your rental car, and drive to Haltia Lake Lodge in the Nuuksio National Park.

Nuuksio National Park, located just a short drive from Helsinki, is a pristine natural haven that offers a perfect escape into Finland’s breathtaking wilderness. Spanning over lush forests, serene lakes, and rugged cliffs, Nuuksio is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and anyone seeking tranquillity in the great outdoors.

Enjoy a day of activities, such as swimming, hiking, kayaking, horse riding, spa treatments or just enjoy the beautiful lakeside surroundings.

For more information about Nuuksio National Park, its activities, and exhibitions, visit the Haltia Nature Centre.

Drive to Tampere and make a stop at the Iittala Glass Village, home to the renowned Design Museum of Iittala. Established in 1881, Iittala are famous for their exquisite glass and ceramic designs. In the village, you can explore the museum, tour the glass factory, and shop at the outlet store. Additionally, the area boasts numerous artisan workshops, art galleries, and design boutiques, offering a rich and immersive experience in Finnish craftsmanship.

Continue to Tampere for the following three nights.

With a full day to explore Tampere, perhaps start with a walk out to Pyynikki nature reserve where an observation tower offers wonderful views over Lake Pyhäjärvi and the Pyynikinharju ridge – the world’s tallest esker, rising 85m above the lake. The café here serves the best doughnuts in the city and probably the whole of Finland. Nearby, you will find the 19th-century neighbourhood of Pispala where colourful wooden houses (originally built for factory workers) are scattered across a hillside above the lake. One of the most beautiful parts of Tampere, Pispala has a thriving artist community, as well as the Rajaportti sauna, the Hirvitalo centre of contemporary arts and the Kurpitsatalo community gardening project.

Your stay in Tampere wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the revolving observation tower and restaurant at Näsinneula on the shores of scenic Lake Näsijärvi. Not only can you expect some of the best meals in town here, but also the most beautiful views of the lake and city.

Head out of the city to the Seitseminen National Park, renowned for its ancient forests, beautiful lakes and vibrant wildlife. Hike along the nature trails, perhaps hire a kayak, or take a swim in one of the park’s serene lakes.

Just over 30 km from Seitseminen lies Helvetinjärvi (Hell’s Lake) National Park, known for its striking geological features, including rugged cliffs and the famous Hell’s Hole gorge. This park offers numerous hiking trails of varying lengths through its natural salo forest, providing a perfect opportunity to explore Finland’s unique wilderness.

Return to Tampere for an overnight stay.

As you leave Tampere, travel eastward along roads flanked by lush forests, pristine lakes, and charming rural villages. The drive takes you through the enchanting Finnish countryside, where you can catch glimpses of traditional red cottages nestled among the greenery and fields dotted with wildflowers.

The route often winds alongside sparkling lakes, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the view or even take a refreshing dip in the clear waters. The region is rich with birch and pine trees.

As you approach Päijänne National Park, the scenery becomes even more spectacular. The national park, located on the western shore of Lake Päijänne, the second-largest lake in Finland, is known for its rugged landscapes and pristine wilderness.

Days at leisure to enjoy the beautiful lakeside surroundings or rent a bike or kayak.

If you wish to visit the Päijänne National Park, the drive into the park is marked by winding roads that hug the lake’s shoreline, offering breathtaking views of the water and the surrounding islands. The national park is a natural paradise, with opportunities for hiking, boating, and exploring the diverse flora and fauna.

A drive across the 8-kilometre-long Pulkkilanharju esker is one of the most spectacular experiences in the Lakeland area, showcasing a unique and stunning example of glacial formations from the last Ice Age.

Today’s journey will take you to the town of Mikkeli, a charming city in the heart of Finland’s Lakeland, that offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and historical sites. Visit the bustling market square for local produce, handicrafts and lively music.

Another must-visit is the nearby Kenkävero Vicarage. Here, you can enjoy a restaurant, art and handicraft shop, a bakery, an art exhibition, and a studio. The vicarage also boasts extensive gardens and a charming summer café.

A further 10 minutes’ drive east is the delightful organic farm Tertti Manor, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch or a healthy snack from their boutique. Recognized by National Geographic as one of the 21 best restaurants in the world in 2024, Tertti Manor offers a culinary experience that shouldn’t be missed.

If you are feeling energetic, visit the Neitvuori Hill, one of the highest hills in South Savo. The peak rises 110 m above the surface of Saimaa. Neitvuori offers open vistas of the archipelago and forest landscapes. On a clear day there are unobstructed views from the rocky hill for tens of kilometres.

To wrap up your day, return towards Mikkeli and take the stunning scenic route 62 to Sahanlahti Resort, where more beautiful landscapes and relaxation await.

Enjoy a variety of activities in the area, rent a canoe, SUP board, or a rowing boat, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking Lakeland scenery.

Explore the prehistoric Astuvansalmi rock paintings, the largest rock art site in Northern Europe, dating back around 5,000 years.

Take a hike to Kummakivi, a peculiar balancing rock from the Ice Age that seemingly defies the laws of physics.

Take a leisurely drive to Savonlinna, located on the shores of Lake Saimaa, the region of European gastronomy in 2024.

Spend a day exploring Savonlinna, including the famous Olavinlinna, a medieval castle built in the 15th century to defend the area from Russian attacks. The vibrant market square in the town centre is an excellent spot to mingle with the locals and sample homegrown products and traditional delicacies. Be sure to try lörtsy, a traditional Finnish sweet pastry filled with berries or jam, often served with coffee.

Stroll through the old part of town with its charming yellow wooden buildings and cobbled streets, where you’ll discover numerous local artisan shops offering beautifully handcrafted products.

To fully appreciate the stunning lake scenery, consider taking a sailing trip on Lake Saimaa or exploring Linnansaari Island National Park.

Explore the 19th-century Kerimäki Church, renowned as the largest wooden church in the world, drawing in visitors with its majestic presence and rich historical importance.

If you’re visiting in July or early August, don’t miss the renowned opera festival held in Olavinlinna, a tradition spanning over a century. Tickets are available for individual performances, or you can simply immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the town during this time.

Head south to Punkaharju and drive along the narrow ridge, pinched between the lakes of Puruvesi and Pihlajavesi. Enjoy this unique landscape and be sure to take plenty of photo stops along the way.

Lappeenranta blends modern architecture with historical landmarks, showcasing its diverse past. The star attraction of the city is the impressive Lappeenranta Fortress, a well-preserved 18th-century fortress that stands as a symbol of the region’s history. Visitors can explore its ramparts, museums, and picturesque grounds while learning about the city’s heritage.

Lappeenranta is also known for its vibrant waterfront area, where you can enjoy leisurely walks along the harbour, and dine at waterfront restaurants.

On route to Helsinki Airport, explore Finland’s second oldest town, Porvoo, renowned for its picturesque old town featuring red ochre-painted riverside warehouses, cobbled streets, and colourful wooden houses housing charming cafes and quirky shops. Porvoo is also celebrated for its array of restaurants and chocolatiers.