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!
We experience the magic of Mozart’s The Abduction from the Seraglio and Rossini’s The Barber of Seville performed 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 21 - 28 July 2019.
If there's one place you can really feel on top of the world, the North Pole is it
Huskies, snowmobiles, sleigh rides and the Northern Lights - what more could you possibly ask for from a winter break? This week-long itinerary includes everything you could wish for from a winter activity holiday and is set on the idyllic shores of Lake Inari, in an exquisite, adults-only boutique hotel in Nangu, Finnish Lapland.
Experience the best of Lapland (exploring across Norway, Sweden and Finland) on this comprehensive self-drive itinerary. Discover lakes, fjords, waterways, national parks and more, and get a true feel for this Sami heartland. The diversity of these three countries is easily distinguished - and there's a range of activities to try on your journey.
A journey by rail and boat between Copenhagen, Stockholm and Helsinki – three of northern Europe’s most exciting cities.
Scandinavia is rich in history, culture, and natural diversity. Discover them all on this exciting triple centre holiday . Helsinki is a mix of old and new, with glorious art-nouveau buildings. Stockholm is a beautiful waterfront city, compact and easy to explore. Oslo is home to top class museums and galleries as well as excellent restaurants.
Discover the many charms of Europe on this enriching adventure
Muotka is one of our most scenic locations, tucked away in the fells and forests; this remote, welcoming hotel offers a true escape for you. The balanced itinerary showcases some of the best scenery and experiences in Lapland and offers exceptional Northern Lights viewing potential throughout the evening excurisions. Max group size 20 approx
From the arresting beauty of Tallinn’s Medieval Old Town to the Neoclassical grace of Helsinki’s City Centre, these two maritime cities will intrigue you with their past and impress you with their present.
The Finnish capital is a great choice for a Christmas market break, and you can even visit the markets of Tallinn, too.
