The 8 things to do in Finland in the summer

A dazzling nature, festivals, midnight sun, favorable climate, summer Finland is a perpetual source of wonder. Here are 8 things to do in Finland in the summer.

This country, which flirts with planispheres, is a poem to itself. When the summer returns after long months of hibernation, Finland reveals a whole new magic. The crystal clear sand and water are slowly moving back. Their mist awakens forests and tundra. The thick snow falls from the branches, leaving room for a new and dazzling green.

As for the sun, it is bright and rises to no longer lie down. It lingered throughout the summer, putting the magnificent and majestic landscapes under eternal spotlights. At the edge of the Arctic Circle, tranquility is absolute. In addition to this landscaped picture of a great splendour, Finland in the summer enjoys warm temperatures and makes the part beautiful to any type of animation. A perfect time to taste the festive lifestyle of Scandinavian people. Here are 8 essential things to do Finland in summer .

1. Hiking in national parks

When the sun refuses to sleep and temperatures rise, Finland in the summer becomes an irresistible playground for hiking enthusiasts. National parks with lakes and forests are always within reach. At this time when the brightness is flaming, all these recoins of nature bathe in a hot and bright light that makes the hikes extraordinary. If nearly forty national parks are registered in Finland, here is a selection of four must-sees.

Nuuksio National Park

The Nuuksio Park is full of steep forests and rocky slopes, hiding breathtaking fauna and flora. There are great encounters with the impulses, the furtive head-to-head with the little felins, the melody interviews with the birds of the woods and the surprising rendezvous with the flying squirrels. And even in the silence and absence of animals, the surrounding peace provides a true sense of fullness.

Koli National Park

Imagine a plunging view of a lake from the top of a high hill: an iconic panorama of deep Finland. To see this show of your own eyes, go to Koli National Park. Muses of painters and writers, its hills and lakes are an ideal setting for hiking. On foot and on horseback, this romantic green setting in the east of Finland runs through all-round hiking loops.

Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park

In the summer, Finland continues to be swept by the purest air in Europe, especially in Lapland. More reason to get to Pallas-Yllästunturi. During the summer period, hikers can climb the hills there, sleep in the historic Lapon villages and be privileged viewers of the mountains with changing colors. Cepes and berries enthusiasts will also be able to take a look at the precious treats.

National Park of Repovesi

The National Park of Repovesi, found in high hills, lakes and shredded cliffs, attract climbers and walkers from all over the world. The views within the park are remarkable. The attractions too. Notably the suspended bridge, the traditional "Fox Ferry" ferry manoeuvered by hand and the lapland huts that serve as small charming hotels. Finally, this sparkling gem in southern Finland is home to a rare fauna, including reddish throat who sing insistently on all shores.

2. Enjoy a festival

Do you know that Scandinavian countries, and Finland especially, are among the best places in Europe in terms of festivals? Giant concerts of rock and jazz in the open air to more intimate events, as well as festivals dedicated to popular music or street theatre, there is a way to satisfy all the enthusiasts!

This is how the rock fans will attend the Ruisrock festival in Turku while the hip hop fans will go to the Tampere Blockfest. As for rap enthusiasts, it is at the Pipefest that they will find their happiness.

The most impressive cultural events and festivals have continued for decades, welcoming thousands of festivalgoers from all over the world in every edition. Amateurs of culture and party in search of this small taste of eternal in addition, offered by a sun that dignifies to bed and closes events.

3. Sports and aquatic activities

In the summer, Finland calls any kind of outdoor activity. It must be said that the peaceful breath of Mother Nature combined with the immortal radiation of the sun can only make the desire to spend her life outside. So what water sports and activities do?

First there is canoe-kayak. With its crystal clear and calm waters, summer Finland is a paradise for those who like to paddle. From your boat, in an environment immaculate on the back of virgin forests, you may have the chance to see some guests of these woods drinking on the waterfront. Our places prefer? Hossa National Park and Archipelago National Park. The latter is recognized as a sea maze among the most beautiful in the world. And if you like to pick up, rather standing, most of the tourist lake areas has a paddle rental booth.

However, if you are bitten with "real" navigation, the unique sensations of the sailboat and the pneumatic boat are made for you. Sometimes at sea, sometimes in bright waters, these two boats are an excellent way to communicate with the elements.

To put yourself in the skin of a Finnish woman, have a fishing rod and place yourself on the edge of a lake or river, on the edge of a salmon, a pike, a sandstone or a pole. Finnish pure waters are full of delicious species, to be enjoyed immediately after fishing. Lapland, the Great Lakes region, the Åland archipelago, the west coast and the south of Finland are the geographical areas to be preferred to practice this traditional sport.

On the farmland, why not junction a bike? To visit national cities or parks, the two wheels are ideal and testify to a true art of living. If you're addicted to mountain bike sensations, you won't be left behind. The marshy areas, rocky terrain and sandy pine floors will be a real challenge.

4. Celebrate the beginning of summer

In the summer, Finland welcomes a very important holiday: Saint John. Originally, this feast was initiated in honour of the summer solstice: the first day of the beautiful season. Today, this great tribute to the midnight sun is a major and long-awaited moment throughout the country.

The program? First, the Finns have several days of vacation. Then, they customize to light large fires and to meet for a friendly barbecue, or even to exile a few days in a chalet in the middle of nature. In the city, Finnish youth gives the tone: Saint John is an opportunity to dance in the open air and swim in the fresh waters of a lake or sea arm with friends.

5. Swimming in lakes

188 000 is the number of lakes that enamel Finland. Most are in the Great Lakes region. A true rosary of tiny blue seas and streams of water that snake in the forests and glacial landscapes, the Great Lakes are real natural gems.

The best thing is to get into a chalet with a sauna, on the edge of a lacustrine stretch at the edge of the woods, and simply slow the pace. Then, to enter into deep communion with the Great Lakes region, nothing more authentic than canoeing and kayaking.

In the region, several places also testify to the past and culture, including ancient manors and castles that inspired poets. With water, you also encounter local food markets and perhaps a bear. Rest assured, in truth, these legendary animals are in well-defined areas, accessible on guided tours.

6. Discover the islands of Åland

If the Åland archipelago is one of our must-sees in Finland in the summer, it is not only for the authentic beauty of the place but also its peak sunshine rate. The Åland Islands are simply the ideal place to take the pulse of remote Finland and taste the maritime summer life. Islets, egregated between Sweden and Finland, are full of activities: camping, cycling, kayaking between the islands, fishing, trekking, or horse riding. You can widely devote several days to it without seeing the time pass.

To enjoy it from the beginning to the end, nothing better than a small wooden chalet typical of Finland, with a traditional steam sauna. In addition to outdoor activities, some cultural visits are worth a visit like Kastelholm Castle or Art and History Museums.

7. Discover Helsinki under the sun

Helsinki, design and representative of the Finnish Art Nouveau, reveals all the splendour and its assets at the time of endless days. Taste strawberries and scent peas on market stalls. Spread on the lively port overflowing with charms and visit the monuments that finally blend with their bright colours.

Then live the party in the middle of the day... at three o'clock in the morning. The return of the summer to Finland and extended days mark the season of nightclubs that do not unfold. After winter and eternal darkness, the Finns were only eager to delay the call of sleep again and again.

Of course, the end of your peregrine in Helsinki cannot exclude a sauna session in Löyly. Built by the water, this renowned establishment marks the spirits by its bold lines and enveloping natural materials. Löyly will leave an unheard memory on your skin and in your mind.

8. Taste local gastronomy

If the holiday places remain crowded throughout the endless days, it is the same for the terraces of restaurants and cafes. It is therefore an opportunity to taste Finnish culinary specialties. And yes, the country is quite suitable for cooking enthusiasts!

Among the specialties not to let pass, you are advised of the blueberry pies, cinnamon cakes and everything that is, near or far, concocted with berries and red fruits. For salted beaks, go without fear on fresh fish such as salmon or small sardines named muikku . Not to mention the small rice peat and mushrooms straight from the fertile forests.

During your stay, especially on Åland, you will also find typical Nordic full recipes. Among them, black bread with sweet notes, garnished with smoked salmon or herring, or pizza with cold smoked salmon and ice cream. In short, Finland is as sporty as it is gourmet!