Finland’s Top Ten Nature Attractions

Finland is well known for its natural beauty that effortlessly captures the magic of wildlife. From its deep lakes, to its snow-coated peaks, Finland has endless different nature attractions that are just waiting to be explored. The Finnish national parks allow you to experience the wilderness of Europe and escape the city life. The only problem is, there are far too many beautiful attractions for you to possibly fit into one trip. Here are our top ten picks for Finland’s best nature attractions, perfect for planning your next vacation:

1. Lake Saimaa
During the warm summertime in Finland, escape the city and surround yourself with the beauty of nature that’s all around you. Lake Saimaa is the largest lake in Finland and features a beautiful view with plenty of fun activities to keep you busy. Whether it be canoeing, fishing, swimming, or berry picking, there is never a dull moment here. As well as experiencing nature, enjoy in the breathtaking view of the Olavinlinna castle located on the lake.
Photo by: Melen72

2. Koli National Park
Don’t miss out on the eye-catching views in Koli national park. Home to the strikingly beautiful Lake Pielinen, photographers and artists often aspire to capture its beauty along the Finnish countryside. This national park is rich with cultural heritage and is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature in Finland. This park also features the Ukko-Koli hill which has well marked hiking routes in the summer and doubles as a ski resort in the winter.
Photo by: Pentti Rautio

3. Pallas-Yllastunturi National Park
Pallas-Yllastunturi is the third largest national park in all of Finland. This national park features activities like hiking, skiing, and even witnessing artic animals in the wild. The chain of mountains stretch 60 miles wide, so the exploration is almost endless. Once you’re in the national park, you must visit the Pallastunturi fells, the Yllas ski resort and the traditional Lapland village called Hetta. If you are truly dedicated, stay late on a dark night and enjoy the stunning view of the Northern Lights.
Photo by: Petr Vodička

4. Aland Islands
Visit one of the most remote parts of Finland and take a swim through the Aland Islands. This quiet space is meant for relaxation and is used as a getaway oasis from the busy cities. These islands are located in southwest archipelago and feature rocky reefs and natural rugged granite. While you stay, you can visit beautiful nature and wildlife areas, historic landmarks, and even go on a garden tour.
Photo by: Visit Finland

5. Kilpisjarvi, where Sweden, Finland, and Norway meet
Kilpisjarvi, Lapland is the most Northern part of Finland and touches both Sweden and Norway as well. Its high base elevation creates a very unique landscape that you cannot find anywhere else. Over time, the mountains have been substantially flattened from giant ice sheets that are up to 2 kilometers thick due to the last glacial period. This part of Finland is very remote and is great for those who are seeking to get away and escape.
Photo by: Wild Nordics

6. Yyteri Sand Dunes and Beach
Yyteri is an area of sand dunes that have now formed Finland’s longest beach. This is a very popular area for beach goers during the summer as a way to get away from the busyness and relax near the water. This land is also known for its very strong winds, which makes it a popular spot for kite surfers as well.
Photo by: Wild Nordics

7. Nuuksio National Park
Nuukiso National park is just a quick 30 min bus ride from the Helsinki. Despite is close proximity to urban life, this park has managed to preserve is nature and continue to be a beautiful spot for people to explore the beauty of Finnish wildlife. This national park features over 80 small lakes and many different endangered species of wildlife.
Photo by: Finnish Friend

8. Oulanka National Park
This extraordinary and magical national park explores the beauty of the Finnish wilderness (especially in the winter). This land was established in 1956 and features flowing rivers and dense forests filled with trees. Seeing the Northern lights at night in Oulanka is a bucket list item that must be checked off your list during your next trip to Finland.
Photo by: timo_w2s

9. Korouoma, Frozen Waterfalls
The frozen waterfalls at Korouoma Canyon near Posio starts with a trial that leads you through three different waterfalls. The trail is said to take about 3 hours but if you are in for a real adventure, you can walk along the entire canyon for up to 2 days and even try ice climbing as well. This incredible scenery looks as though the water is frozen in time and will surely leave you speechless.
Photo by: Posio Lapland

10. Sapokka Water Garden
Experience the peaceful tranquility of the Sapokka Water Gardens designed by Heikki Laaksonen. Appreciate the beauty of the different bays, ponds, steams, and of course the grand waterfall that is 20 meters high. Along your walk, enjoy the different animal sculptures that are scattered around the garden. Take in the beauty of each season as the garden transitions from fall to spring each year.
Photo by: Tuomo Lindfors

Finland’s Top Ten Nature Attractions