Uncover why Finland is an incredible year-round destination

Finland is well known for its freezing temperatures, most likely because in Lapland, winter can span a large percentage of the year - up to 200 days in total. At this time, a thick layer of snow veils an intriguing landscape that comprises more than 70% of alpine forests. Many of the country's 188,000 lakes freeze over entirely and even parts of the Baltic Sea too. These conditions make Finland an ideal destination to partake in a range of snow-based activities, from dogsledding to ice skating.

However when the ice melts, it reveals a land rich in greenery, trickling waterways and bountiful wildlife, including bears, reindeer, lynx and seals. Finns celebrate the summer months wholeheartedly. Their culture is one that adores outdoor recreation throughout the year but as the temperatures rise this is especially true, with locals spending far more time outside cooking, adventuring, and socialising together. They relish exhilarating activities like surfing and sailing along the incredible coastline, which showcases the world’s largest archipelago of up to 70,000 islands, as well as more harmonious interests such as paddleboarding, open water swimming or fishing. In land, the vast and varied wilderness simply cries out to be explored whether by foot, bicycle, or horseback. 

Finland is home to more than 70 ski resorts, with both skiing and snowboarding being extremely popular. Most resorts feature fantastic snow parks that are suitable for all ages and abilities, from gentle, child-friendly runs to more challenging black slopes. These resorts are far less crowded than their typical European counterparts and yet still boast a charming après ski scene alongside amenities for a wide range of other snow-based pursuits. 

Visitors can choose between lively ski-towns like Levi, complete with restaurants, bars, shops, and spas, or escape to secluded log cabins on remote hillsides for an authentic and traditional experience. If cross-country skiing is more your style, there are hundreds of kilometres of ski tracks across Finnish Lapland waiting to be explored. Between December and April, the ski season is in full swing, with the darkness of winter not slowing anyone down. And, if you visit Lapland towards the end of the season, between March and May, you can still try a range of winter leisure activities, while enjoying up to 16-hours of non-stop sunlight. 

When the hours of sunlight shorten during winter, an extreme is reached where the sun barely rises past the horizon at all. This enchanting time is called the polar night, or kaamos in Finnish. This unusual occurrence can last up to two months where the continual darkness of the night lifts only to deepened hues of blue and violet. While it may sound like a strange way to spend your holiday – without sunlight – the event itself is a natural phenomenon that needs to be seen to be believed. 

Why not visit during the darkest days of kaamos in December and January and take on the Finnish ski slopes illuminated by moonlight alone? The opposing side to this extraordinary occurrence is the midnight sun. While the summer season is far shorter than winter, endless summer days do exist in Finland – quite literally. In Lapland, one day of sunlight can last more than two months! Even in the south of the country, the evenings never descend to complete pitch black, instead the dark is replaced by a period of glittering twilight. During this time there are numerous rock, folk and jazz festivals that take place across the country where you can party all night long, without the sun ever setting.

Helsinki is the capital of Finland and is bursting with parks and interesting architecture. This vibrant seaside metropolis has a laid-back atmosphere yet plenty of vibrant activity. In winter, snow envelops the capital and the surrounding sea freezes. The streets are alive with festive lighting, market stalls and ice-rinks, with toboggan runs and cross-country ski tracks woven throughout. It's not rare to find visitors seeking warmth in cosy cafés, museums, and art galleries. 

When temperatures lift between May and September, a transformation occurs. Folks relax in the sunshine on nearby beaches, picnicking and enjoying ice creams in the bright summer sun. The city is also surrounded by forests, lakes, and small isles just off the coast that entice island hopping adventures. On the doorstep is Nuuksio National Park which provides lots of outdoor activities from hiking, fishing and canoeing. During this warmer period, locals like to spend as much time as possible within nature as well as indulging in the city’s bustling nightlife, which is home to one of Europe’s most vivacious food scenes.

One thing you will notice quickly when travelling to Finland is that everyone is hugely passionate about cooking and there is a feeling of celebration that surrounds every meal. Finns put huge effort into sourcing the very best of ingredients, with wild food being considered the masterpiece of their menus, from freshly picked berries to foraged mushrooms and herbs. No Finnish summer is complete without roasting a grillimakkara (sausage) over an open campfire, and no winter trip can conclude without enjoying a warm korvapuusti (cinnamon bun). Foodies shouldn't miss a stayover in Helsinki, simply to indulge at its six mouth-watering Michelin-starred restaurants alone.

Whenever and wherever you plan to stay in Finland, a sauna is a must do experience. The practice is an enormous part of Finnish culture, and you will find public and private saunas spread across the nation. Traditionally used for everything from giving birth to purification rituals before marriage and even part of burial ceremonies, today they are a fundamental aspect of Finnish wellbeing. Many Finns pair the hot sauna experience with ice water swimming, which by itself has a multitude of wellness benefits.

Whether travelling with young children or simply young at heart, a trip to Santa Claus Village is a must. Located deep in the heart of Finnish Lapland, this authentic-looking town is sure to capture your imagination with its enchanting atmosphere and welcoming warmth. Home to old Saint Nic as well as his team of happy elves, you can look forward to an interactive experience, meeting Mrs Claus and the reindeer, before having that all-important private chat with the big man himself. Plus, this isn’t just a Christmas attraction, the village is open all year, delivering the best memory-making experience for the whole family.

Best for: Luxury city break

Discovering the city of Helsinki will be even more magnificent when you stay at Hotel St. George Helsinki. The seven storey five-star hotel is perfect positioned nearby to vibrant museums and famous landmarks. Choose from a range of elegant rooms and suites for you to relax in after a busy day of exploring. And if heading out in the cold isn’t an option, the two excellent restaurants onsite will provide the perfect evening meal from Turkish treats to Nordic delights and family favourites perfect for all ages. 

Best for: The ultimate private lodge experience 

Octola defines luxury in Finland. You won’t want for anything with a 24-hour concierge, wilderness guide, five-star butler and private chef. Leave the city behind and get lost in nature with a vast array of fantastic excursions and jaw-dropping landscapes to explore. From dog-sledding to a helicopter ride, nothing is out of the question at your private lodge. Or if you fancy a do-nothing day, the Jacuzzi and sauna will provide some well needed down-time. 

Best for: Ultra-modern accommodation 

Arctic Treehouse Hotel is impeccable in its design, blending well into its natural surroundings whilst providing striking ultra-modern touches. All suites are beautiful in their décor and provide a tranquil retreat for guests, not to mention the ArcticScene Executive Suite that comes complete with its own sauna. For foodies, the onsite eatery offers traditional Finnish dishes using the finest local ingredients with a modern twist. 

Best for: Viewing the Northern Lights

Be the envy of your social followers with a stay at Kakslauttanen. Nothing says Finland more than a stay in your very own glass igloo where you get the chance to spot the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed.  You also have five restaurants onsite to choose from as well as an abundance of activities including a visit to Santas home. Welcome to winter wonderland.