2026 Kuusamo Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

Finland, after five days, my outlook on life collapsed!✨ The Nordic fairy tale healed my mental exhaustion~ It’s been a week since I returned from Finland, but my soul remains between the forests and the aurora! I originally thought it was just an ordinary trip, but after five days, my entire outlook on life was completely refreshed—turns out life can be so simple, yet so abundant! 🌲 Day 1: Helsinki, encountering the "Power of Silence" Helsinki’s morning air is as crisp as if washed by snow! This city has no oppressive skyscrapers, instead embraced by forests and bays. Walking the streets, even the sound of trams passing by is as gentle as a sigh. Highlight: At the Rock Church, I discovered the entire church was carved out of natural rock! No fancy decorations, only daylight pouring through the glass dome. At that moment, I suddenly understood—the true sacredness comes from coexistence with nature. 🛷 Day 2: Rovaniemi, stepping into Santa Claus’s fairy tale Rushing into Santa Claus Village above the Arctic Circle! Took photos with the white-bearded grandpa, jumped back and forth on the Arctic Circle line, and sent postcards stamped with the Arctic postmark at the post office~ The biggest surprise was riding a reindeer sleigh across the snowy plains: the bell sounds echoed in the silent forest, the reindeer strolled slowly, and time seemed to stretch. Insight: Santa Claus told me, “Child, gifts aren’t something you wait for, but what you encounter on the way.”—So keeping a childlike heart means always being full of expectation for the world. 🌌 Night 3: Salla, a soul conversation under the aurora Wrapped in a blanket lying in a glass cabin, waiting for Aurora’s skirt to dance! When the green light really spread across the sky, a Finnish aunt quietly said, “Finns believe the aurora is sparks from a fox running across the snow.” Moment of outlook collapse: 1. Loneliness ≠ Solitude: Finns are quiet but teach you to get along with yourself. While waiting for the aurora on the snowy plains, I actually heard the voice inside me. 2. Nature doesn’t please anyone: The guide said, “The aurora doesn’t come for you, nor does it leave because of your absence. People are the same, just be your true self.” 🏕️ Day 4: Oulanka National Park, rediscovering instincts in the wilderness Entering this primeval forest felt like stepping into a Nordic myth! Snowshoe hiking, snow falling softly from pine branches, occasionally spotting reindeer tracks. The guide taught us to make fire with pine branches to roast fish, saying, “Finns always leave half the blueberries for the forest residents.” Healing moment: Sitting by the lake drinking hot berry juice, suddenly realizing my phone had no signal—but for the first time, feeling so relaxed being “disconnected.” Turns out what we need isn’t more information, but deeper perception. 🎨 Day 5: Porvoo Old Town, living life like poetry On the last day, visiting the “City of Artists” Porvoo! Rainbow-colored wooden houses line the river, watching craftsmen blow crystal-clear vases in the handmade glass workshop. Locals smiled and shared, “Here in winter, there are only 5 hours of daylight, but we light candles to turn the dark into warm moments.” Ultimate insights: · Slow is fast: Finns have a simple sandwich for lunch but live wholeheartedly after work. Efficiency means saving energy for what truly matters. · Happiness is a skill: In the forest, a Finnish child told me, “Happiness isn’t waiting for big things to happen, but discovering small things—like finding a heart-shaped stone.” 📝 Finland Travel Tips 1. Aurora season: October to April next year, recommended to use the Aurora App to predict aurora intensity. 2. Cultural details: Finns value privacy and quietness, avoid loud conversations in public; press the button to change the pedestrian light when crossing streets. 3. Dressing advice: In winter, wear windproof down jackets + waterproof boots, warm-colored hats are super photogenic! No need to bring too many fancy clothes, simplicity and comfort are the Nordic style. This trip made me realize: what collapsed wasn’t my outlook on life, but the “false me” kidnapped by the city’s pace. Finland taught me that happiness isn’t having more, but having deeper perception❤️ “Life is a wilderness, not a track”—and Finland is the gateway to that wilderness.

#wecreate I went to Ruka in May 2023 to participate in the NUTS Karhunkierros Trail Running. It was my first time in Ruka and at the Ski-Inn Ruka Valley Hotel and I was surprised about how beautiful and comfortable the hotel was! My studio apartment was big, clean and practical! I had everything I needed for cooking, and also a balcony with a lovely view on the lake. My bed was extremely comfortable and the hotel was very silent at night! Before bedtime, I absolutely loved enjoying the finnish sauna! #ruka

Seaside cottage in Kotka for rent Thu-Sat 8-10.9 now 320e. Comfortable accommodation for 6 people, wood-heated sauna, a grazed terrace, swimming dock and a rowing boat available. it is nice to go here in Kotka , Finland. The best to visit and enjoy. Seems its very cold for now but enjoy the outside view. Come and enjoy the place#celebratewithtrip

➡️Have you yet been to the east coast of Finland? There are some charming places to visit, especially if you are interested in history, architecture, and culture. What’s more – these easter gems are nearby each other, all less than two hours away from the capital by car, so you could visit them all in a single day. Here are some must-see places to visit and things to do: ✨Get to know Loviisa’s past in the city’s culturally significant esplanade and the market square. Pivotal to this 19th-century landscape are the pink City Hall, the neo-gothic church, and the oldest wooden community center in the country. 🛠Continue your day in the nearby Strömfors Ironworks, a picturesque village founded in 1695, where you can enjoy lunch in an idyllic milieu and discover unique gifts made by local artisans. 🛑Hamina’s round city plan from the 1720s is a fascinating sight to see, and it is also a worldwide rarity. In the center, you’ll find the grand city hall, the starting point for eight radial streets. Marvel at the significant historical buildings and other sights along the blocks and continue your way to the octagon-shaped fortress surrounding the old town. ⚓️In Kotka, stroll around the central Kotkansaari district. Admire a couple of dozen art pieces made mostly by Finnish contemporary artists at the Sculpture Promenade. If you are keen to learn more about the marine culture, pay a visit to the Maritime Center Vellamo, which hosts the Maritime Museum of Finland. #visitfinland #ourfinland #celebratewithtrip

📍 Oulanka National Park, Finland Forest Therapy adalah salah satu faktor yang menjadikan Finland negara paling "happy" di dunia untuk 4 tahun berturut-turut. 75% kawasan Finland diliputi hutan dan akses percuma ke 'terapi hutan' atau menghabiskan masa di hutan dapat mengurangkan tekanan darah tinggi dan kemurungan, membuat orang lebih bahagia dan lebih sihat. Finland dinobatkan sebagai negara yg penduduknya paling happy di dunia sekali lagi. Kiranya dah 4x berturut-turut. Adakah ini rahsia mereka? Kalau dekat & murah memang nak dtg selalu... #backpacklife #travelife #payabdtravelwithbrain

Oulanka National Park was the first stop on our trip in #finland. One of the coldest day I’ve ever experienced. That morning it was -24 Celsius Degrees and it felt like my whole body was about to freeze but the scenery and the experience was absolutely amazing.

On the final day of 2019, I escaped the city and entered into a wild land full of snow, and I tried to find out the brightest star of the star field.

Finland guide | Beautiful and easy-to-reach off-the-beaten-path places 🌲 All locations are centered around Kuusamo, making them super convenient to visit! ❄️ Riisitunturi National Park (photos 1–3) ✨ Highlights: · Completely free! No ticket or parking fees · Winter feels like a fairy tale · Summer is a hiker’s paradise 💡 Tips: Wear slip-resistant shoes in winter! 🎿 Many hidden activities around Kuusamo: · Snowmobile rides · Northern lights viewing · Reindeer farm visits · Forest hot springs Fewer crowds and stunning scenery make every shot a masterpiece! 📸 Add a snow filter for an even more magical look!

Exclusive high-end long itinerary in Scandinavia 🌍 16 days of immersive travel through the best of Sweden, Norway, and Finland 🌿 Custom private tour with no shopping stops, avoiding rushed visits for a relaxed and quality journey! 🇸🇪 Sweden|gentle and healing old town lake views 🍃 Highlights: Stockholm old town, city hall, art metro, Queen’s island palace, royal gardens, Siljan lake, Dala horse town Leisurely explore the city and hidden lake spots, wander colorful streets, and unwind by the water with a full sense of atmosphere. 🇳🇴 Norway|majestic fjords and mountain-sea secrets 🏔️ Highlights: Oslo opera house, Vigeland sculpture park, Flåm mountain railway, Skjosa waterfall, Nærøyfjord, Stegastein viewpoint, Aurland town Deep exploration of the world natural heritage fjords, boat trips to see snowy mountains and clear waters, climb high for breathtaking mountain and sea views. 🇫🇮 Finland|pristine forest healing 🌲 Highlights: Helsinki’s unique churches, south harbor market, Åland national forest park, Kiutaköngäs waterfall, forest canyon Step into the Nordic primeval forest for hiking and fresh air, escape city noise, and fully immerse in your vacation time. ✨high-end custom worry-free service 💼 We always uphold: respect every minute of our clients’ time and honor every penny they spend. Focused on high-quality outbound customization, Baolü International is your best choice for a worry-free trip! ✅ private group, all-inclusive price, no shopping or optional fees throughout ✅ one-on-one custom itinerary, thoughtful planning, seamless support throughout ✅ formal travel agency contract, official invoice available, support for in-person signing Carefully crafting every journey for you to fully enjoy a comfortable and wonderful trip to Scandinavia 😊

Oulanka National Park is honestly one of Finland’s most iconic wild spaces—seriously, an absolute must for adventure junkies and nature nerds alike! Sprawling over 270 square kilometers across Northern Ostrobothnia and Finnish Lapland, this park gives off serious "lost in the wild" vibes (in the best way possible).🌲❄️ Managed by Metsähallitus, Oulanka protects a seriously rare Arctic river ecosystem—right up close to the Russian border, so you’re getting those remote, untouched landscape feels. The whole park is famous around the world for its roaring white-water rapids (sooo epic for Insta videos!), insane canyon gorges, wobbly suspension bridges that will test your bravery, and flashes of rare northern orchids you’ll want to snap pics of all day.🪻🌊 Travel basics: · Address: Liikasenvaarantie 132, 93900 Kuusamo, Finland · Opening hours: Open year-round, but the most popular seasons are spring for the wildflowers and autumn for those unreal fall colors. · Entrance: Free (nature flex win!) Whether you’re there to crush a section of the legendary Karhunkierros Trail, paddle those famous rapids, or just chill and spot reindeer and eagles, Oulanka is next-level. Don’t forget to pack your waterproofs and charge your phone—those views are 🤯 and you’ll wanna remember every second! #Oulanka #nationalpark #finland #celebratewithtrip

#arrivalguide #ArrivalGuide #Hossa #Finland Hossa is one of Finland’s lesser-known national parks, but it holds the key to understanding the "everyman’s right" (jokamiehenoikeus). I drove from Kuusamo (1h 15m) and parked at the Julma-Ölkky canyon parking lot. The 15-kilometer loop to Huippujärvi is a masterclass in tranquility. The first section follows the edge of the Julma-Ölkky lake, a deep, narrow canyon with rock faces plunging straight into black water. I paddled a rented canoe (€35/half-day) for the first 4 kilometers because the water level was too high to walk the shoreline. After portaging the canoe, I hit the forest trail. Unlike the rocky trails of Norway, Hossa is soft—pine needles and sphagnum moss cushion every step. The trail passes by ancient Sami sacrificial sites marked by small piles of stones. I found a perfectly circular "witch’s ring" of mushrooms in a clearing. The highlight is the swim in Huippujärvi lake; the water was a shocking 18°C—warm by Finnish standards. There are free wilderness huts (autiotupa) along the way. I stayed in one for a night; they are first-come, first-served, and you must clean the stove and floor before you leave. Firewood is provided. A common mistake is underestimating the mosquitoes; I went through half a bottle of repellent. Payment: the park is free, but the canoe rental requires a card. I’m curious: does the lack of crowds and the freedom of wild camping make Finnish parks more appealing than heavily regulated ones?

The way my butt was shaking and sliding on this tiny seat! 💀 This was so much fun! Would you try Snow Racing #solotravel #solofemaletravel #travel #traveltok #workandtravel #workabroad #tourguide #lapland #finland #finnishlapland #snowracing #snowsledding #ski #skiing #ruka #rukaskiresort

Finland’s beauty lives in its extremes and soft mysteries. In spring, the snowmelt creates countless temporary waterfalls that roar down rocky slopes in places like Repovesi National Park, where suspension bridges sway between pine-covered cliffs above emerald channels. The Bothnian Bay offers a surreal, shallow coastline—thousands of tiny, windswept islands rising just above the water, painted in muted grays and soft greens. Further east, Oulanka National Park carves dramatic gorges with rapids tumbling through ancient forests, while wooden bridges lead to the legendary Kiutaköngäs waterfall. In the south, the Lauttasaari rocky shores let you watch cargo ships glide into Helsinki’s harbor as the sun dips only briefly below the horizon. The Temppeliaukio Church—carved directly into solid granite—captures Finland's soul: raw rock softened by a copper dome and natural light. From the quiet dignity of a lakeside cottage to the eerie glow of a winter dawn at 10:00 AM, Finland’s beauty is never dramatic—it whispers, lingers, and asks you to listen.#finland #travel2026 #seascapes

#skitrip #familytravel #attractive #travel #skitrip #finlandtrip #winterescape Located in northern Finland near Kuusamo, Ruka Ski Resort is one of the best ski destinations in the country. I visited during peak winter season, and the snow conditions were absolutely perfect — soft powder, well-groomed slopes, and breathtaking Arctic scenery all around. Ruka offers over 30 slopes suitable for beginners, intermediate skiers, and even advanced riders. What makes this resort special is its long ski season, usually from October to May. Night skiing here is an unforgettable experience, with illuminated slopes creating a magical atmosphere under the Arctic sky. For beginners, ski schools are available with professional English-speaking instructors. Equipment rental shops are conveniently located near the lifts, and everything is well organized. Lift passes can be purchased online or at the resort entrance. Beyond skiing, you can enjoy snowshoeing, husky safaris, snowmobiling, and even Northern Lights hunting. After a full day outdoors, relaxing in a traditional Finnish sauna feels incredibly refreshing. The village atmosphere is cozy, with restaurants serving warm local dishes like salmon soup and reindeer specialties. Practical Tips: · Best time to visit: December to March for deep winter snow · Dress in proper thermal layers (temperatures can drop below -20°C) · Book accommodation early during Christmas and New Year · Try night skiing at least once — it’s truly unique Ruka Ski Resort is not just about skiing; it’s a complete Arctic winter adventure. Perfect for anyone planning a memorable #skitrip in Europe’s snowy north! 🌨️✨

You must have never walked through the snowy forest to relax your mind in Ruka. Ruka is a famous winter resort near Kuusamo in Finnish Lapland, known for its snow-covered forests and ski slopes. It is truly a hidden gem for relaxation. Snowy Forest Features Ruka is surrounded by Oulanka National Park, where the winter scenery is as enchanting as a fairy tale. It’s perfect for snowshoe hiking or strolling through snowy forests, breathing in fresh air, admiring snow-covered pine trees, and enjoying the serene swamps. Many visitors describe this place as a "winter wonderland," where you can escape the hustle and bustle, listen to the barking of sled dogs or birdwatch while walking, providing perfect healing for the body and mind. Recommended Relaxation Activities · Husky or reindeer sled rides through the forest, experiencing the tranquility of the pristine snowy landscape. A 30-minute journey is incredibly soothing. · Explore the Rytisuo trail with snowshoes, searching for traces of winter wildlife, paired with a traditional Finnish sauna to warm up. · Nighttime snowmobile tours, enjoying the magnificent Northern Lights while crossing frozen lakes—a romantic and relaxing experience. Travel Tips During winter (October to June), the area receives abundant snowfall. Although the elevation is only 460 meters, the ski slopes and forest trails are well-maintained, making it suitable for beginners or family trips. From Hong Kong, you can fly to Helsinki and transfer to Kuusamo Airport, then take a bus for about 30 minutes to reach Ruka. Staying in a mountain cabin is recommended to fully immerse yourself in the forest atmosphere. Your enthusiasm for Ruka is truly contagious! If you want to plan a trip or combine it with a visit to Norway or South Korea, let me know more details!

#skitrip Ruka offers a unique ski experience with a calm and peaceful Arctic atmosphere. The slopes are well-lit, which makes skiing enjoyable even during shorter daylight hours. I liked how uncrowded the resort felt, allowing for a more relaxed pace. The surrounding snowy forests create a magical winter setting that feels very different from alpine resorts. Ruka is perfect if you want a quieter ski trip focused on nature, scenery, and a slower rhythm. #travel #travel2026

As the gentle glow of summer fades away, Finland welcomes its most poetic season of the year. From September to October, the entire country is bathed in layers of warm hues: golden birches, fiery red maples, and orange pine forests reflected in the lakes, creating a scene reminiscent of an unpolished oil painting. 🍁 Nature's Palette In the northern region of Lapland, the polar night has yet to arrive, and the maple leaves along with the low tundra vegetation transform into vibrant colors. Red and gold intertwine, resembling flames dancing across the earth. Meanwhile, the southern lake district offers a different kind of serene beauty: azure lakes mirror the golden trees, and gentle breezes ripple the water's surface, composing a silent autumn symphony. 🚶 Finland's Autumn Through a Traveler's Eyes · Stroll along forest trails on the outskirts of Helsinki, where fallen leaves crunch softly underfoot. · Light a fireplace in a lakeside cabin, with maple leaves swirling outside the window and the warm orange glow of the fire inside. · For adventure enthusiasts, paddle a canoe to the heart of the lake, surrounded by hills painted in red and gold, with only the sound of water and your heartbeat filling the air. ✨ Tips · Best viewing period: Mid-September to early October. · Recommended locations: Oulanka National Park and Kuusamo in Lapland, as well as the southern Thousand Lakes region. · Suggested preparations: Bring warm clothing to cope with the significant temperature difference between day and night, and don't forget a camera to capture the shifting light and shadows. ⸻ 🔖 Tags #FinlandAutumn #LandOfThousandLakes

#holidayitinerary Oulanka National Park in Liikasenvaarantie Finland, is a breathtaking winter destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Covered in a pristine blanket of snow, the park transforms into a serene wonderland with frozen rivers, snow-laden trees, and sparkling ice formations. Winter hiking and snowshoeing trails wind through forests and along the famous Oulanka River, offering spectacular views of icy rapids and frozen waterfalls. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, and with quiet winter conditions, spotting animals like reindeer or birds becomes easier. Cozy rest huts along the trails provide warm stops for a snack or hot drink. Whether seeking peaceful snowy landscapes, invigorating winter activities, or stunning photo opportunities, Oulanka National Park in Lappi delivers an unforgettable Arctic experience, showcasing the raw beauty and tranquility of Finland in winter.

This igloo hotel features a transparent glass roof and floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing you to lie in bed at night and, with a bit of luck, catch the Northern Lights! This experience is truly unbeatable. Located in Ruka, Finland, this glass igloo not only offers great privacy but is also very budget-friendly ♥. Plus, there's a ski resort nearby, making it my hidden gem in Finland. Many people have to drive out into the wilderness to chase the Northern Lights, but here, with some luck, you can comfortably enjoy the view right from your room. It's definitely one of my bucket list experiences 🤩. P.S. Make sure to check out the last image! I’ve shared some tips for everyone. IG: moonjehsnote 📍Address: Taikalammentie 2, 93830 Kuusamo, Finland 💰Average cost: 1500HKD/double room

#besthotels In the breathtaking landscapes of Ruka , Hotel Royal Ruka offers a perfect blend of warmth, comfort, and luxury 🥰 Whether you’re visiting for skiing, hiking, or simply to enjoy the serene beauty of Lapland, this boutique-style hotel makes an excellent base. The first thing you’ll notice upon arrival is the warm and inviting atmosphere. The wooden lodge-style architecture, paired with cozy interiors, sets the tone for a relaxing stay. The staff at Royal Ruka go above and beyond, greeting guests with genuine smiles and ensuring every need is met. From check-in to check-out, the service feels personal and thoughtful. The rooms are well-appointed, featuring modern amenities with touches of Scandinavian charm. Plush bedding, heated bathroom floors, and large windows with sweeping views of snowy forests or mountains make for an incredibly relaxing retreat. After a day outdoors, the hotel’s sauna is a must—perfect for unwinding and embracing Finnish traditions. The on-site restaurant is another highlight, offering an exceptional dining experience. The menu focuses on local ingredients, with reindeer dishes and fresh fish being standout options. Breakfast is equally impressive, with a hearty spread that prepares you for a day of adventure. Royal Ruka is ideally located just a short drive from Ruka Ski Resort and other outdoor activities, making it convenient for both thrill-seekers and those seeking tranquility. The peaceful surroundings and proximity to nature also make it an excellent spot for catching the Northern Lights on clear nights.

#luxuryhotels #christmastrip #freehotelstay Food is heavenly and best in ruka area. Rooms are clean, and the view is one of a kind. You should visit this place any time of the year if its open. You can go to jacuzzi and watch the sun set from the mountain. Staff is so friendly and flexible if your plans change. Theyll remember how you like your coffee in the morning etc. little things. Atmosphere is very relaxing, like in a spa. Great location, beautiful surrounding atmosphere, great staff. Most friendly and helpful receptionist and staff ever, lovely and great first impression of hotel. Everything about the hotel was exceptional. It was clean, stylish, roomy with excellent service in where we had dinner. Food was good and great value for money and service was attentive and efficient. Room itself was well equipped and comfortable. I was very pleased with my stay. I

#autumncolours

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If you visit the Ruka ski resort and you want to challenge yourself (just a little), I recommend you to take the ski lift to the top of the hill, enjoy the great views and instead of walking or taking the lift down, use the sleigh track downhill the ski resort front slopes. The track is situated right in the center of the ski resort and the entry point is just next to the ski lift upper station. The tickets for a single round trip are needed to ride the sleigh and they are fairly expensive for a single trip (12 euros for an adult in 2021) but a daily pass can be bought with a reasonable price. The track itself is as fierce as you make it. There’s a break on the sleigh so you can easily control the speed. The maximum speed that can be reached is quite high and using a high speed will add an additional fear factor to the ride. But I guarantee, it’s suitable for everyone - just control the speed according to the personal preferences. But one thing that is undeniable. It’s so much fun that even as an adult I was thinking of riding it again and again. For the kids it’s a full day entertainment. The Finnish ski centers in Lapland (well, to be accurate Ruka is just outside Lapland) do offer more and more fun during the summer season too. If you decide to come to see the nightless and bright nights of the northern Finland, I really recommend to stay in one of the biggest ski resorts (especially Ruka or Levi) to fully enjoy the summer season. #finland #ruka #travelguide#hiking#naturalwonders#roadtrip#summervacation#urbanexplorer

The town of Lucca is near Kuusamo and there are free shuttle buses available here. The town is really small, only a pizza, a sushi, an American, a steak, a station anyway, No.1, but a world-class ski resort, even skiing should line up, the hotel is Hard to order. If you don't live here, be sure to catch the last bus back to the hotel, after all, free of charge

As an outdoor enthusiast, this is definitely a great place to go hiking in the snow! The snow in the park is too thick. If you accidentally fall into the tens of centimeters, wear a winter jacket, and add the crampons like a bigfoot, it becomes a technical party. The national park is really beautiful. , forests, snowfields, rivers, lakes. Unfortunately, I didn't see small animals, only footprints. Many foreign friends are very light to wear, its a local one.

To Finland, you must feel the Finnish traditional wooden house, it should be said that the villa bar h [address] Finland Kusamo, there is a certain distance from the city of Lucca, but there is a free shuttle bus, not bad [People flow] There are quite a lot of people, it is recommended to book and go to [taste] the same, in fact, breakfast is OK, but salmon and bacon are really salty! [Service] It is a capitalist country. If the door is frozen, it will not be opened. Actually, it will have to collect money and it must be properly solved! In general, it is recommended. It was originally a lake. It has frozen into a large natural ski resort and it is quite fun!