Summer is not endless in Finland. Although when it does come around, Finns love to get out of town and be outside in nature.
Summer cottages are a lifestyle that many Finns choose to invest in as a peaceful retreat. Summer cottages in Finland are often placed upon a hilly landscape or near a body of water, making visits there both a mental and physical getaway from the stresses of daily life in the city.
As summer cottages gain popularity in Finland, the styles of the cottages have also developed. Nowadays, many Finns either own or rent out a luxury cottage when going somewhere over their holiday. Although luxury cottages have become popular, the traditionally small and minimal cottages are still more generally common in Finland. On average, one out of every five households in Finland has a cottage of some kind, and here are some reasons why.
Cottage life is something that almost all Finns grow up with or at least experience at some point. Whether you're a guest, owner, renter, or borrower of a cottage in Finland, the overall motto to appreciate "the art of doing nothing" is always present. Instead of typing away on a computer, Finns use this time to appreciate the nature that they are surrounded by, and also reflect on the importance of making time for one's self.
True peace and quiet is almost non-existent in our modern societies, making the silence almost unbearable to some who visit. Finns often appreciate the silence, as it gives them an escape from the everyday noise pollution.
The sauna is a main component within the Finnish cottage lifestyle. The sauna culture is passed down from generation to generation as one of the most important ways to de-stress over a holiday. Taking a cool dip in the lake followed by a hot and sweaty sauna is the ultimate way to purify the body and mind.
Relaxing and having a good time with your family and loved ones is what Finnish vacation and lake life is all about. Eating good meals, spending quality time together, and participating in activities with each other is why Finns take time to go to their summer cottages. Common activities include boating, canoeing, yard games, fishing and of course, sauna.
Summer in Finland is short and sweet, which is why Finns try to make the most of it. Bright days in the summer are followed by many more cold and dark days in the winter. The white summer nights make the cottage experience ever so magical.
Images courtesy of Visit Finland
