Finland is often overshadowed by its high-profile Nordic neighbours, but from its Arctic north to wood-strewn Baltic shores, Europe's seventh-largest country offers tranquil archipelagos ripe for kayaking, snowy winter landscapes perfect for cross-country skiing or snow-shoeing, 188,000 wood-fringed lakes for summer lounging and the unique Sami enclave of Lapland (purported home of Father Christmas!)
Finland is great for city slickers too: Its boulevard-laced coastal capital Helsinki is arguably the world's most design-infused city, from glorious architecture to a vast array of new and second-hand design shops. But there are lesser-known gems too; Turku was the beautiful former capital for centuries, while Tampere is like a hip 'Manchester of the North'.
The Finns are distinctive too. Outwardly quiet but great fun underneath, sharing a drink in a cool bar or warm conversation in one of the two million saunas – blissful steaming then a cooling dip. A perfect balance!
4 holidays match your criteria.
We experience the magic of two festival performances in a Finnish mediaeval castle set in a lake, travel through silver birch forest for chamber music concerts at Kuhmo on the Russian border and enjoy exploring the attractive capital Helsinki on a guided tour running 14 - 21 July 2023.
The Winter Adventure offers incredible highlights including an exclusive night on a husky safari staying in a wilderness cabin. There is also a real sense of adventure in the air at your welcoming hotel. After a day of activities, the saunas await and dinner provides the ideal chance to catch up with fellow adventurers.
Stay at the Arctic SnowHotel and Glass Igloos, Rovaniemi, Finland
Prices from £1,090pp. Includes return flights, transfers and 3 nights bed & breakfast accommodation.
Menesjärvi is located deep in the Aurora Zone and provides a wonderful chance of catching the Northern Lights. By the end of the week, you will have travelled by showshoes, dog sled, kick sled, cross-country skis, and a snowmobile-pulled sleigh. With all of this, your holiday is sure to be one you never forget! Children from £1820.00 (12-14)
