Written by Justin Mewse
May 2023
In Finland’s summer and autumn, visitors can enjoy hiking and camping in national parks, witness the changing colours of the leaves, berry picking, mushroom hunting, bird migration, and even see the Northern Lights.
Northern Lights
While winter is the most popular time to see the Northern Lights in Finland, it is possible to witness this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon outside of the winter season. The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, can be seen in Finland from late August to early April, with the best viewing opportunities occurring during the months of September to November and February to March. During this time, visitors can witness the colorful dance of lights in the dark Arctic skies. Some of the best places to see the Northern Lights in Finland outside of winter include the Finnish Lapland region, especially in the vicinity of Lake Inari or Kilpisjärvi. While the Northern Lights are never guaranteed, witnessing this magical display of nature in Finland is an experience not to be missed.
National Parks
Exploring any one or more of Finland’s 41 national parks is a must for anyone visiting the country, and the summer and autumn months offer unique opportunities to experience these natural wonders. During the summer, visitors can take advantage of the endless daylight to hike and camp in the parks, taking in the stunning scenery that Finland has to offer. Some popular national parks to explore during the summer months include Nuuksio, Koli, and Oulanka. In the autumn, the changing leaves create a colorful spectacle, making it an ideal time for hiking. The national parks also offer a chance to witness the annual migration of birds and the emergence of other wildlife. Some of the most popular national parks to visit during the autumn months include Urho Kekkonen, Pallas-Yllästunturi, and Syöte.
Urho Kekkonen National Park is Finland’s second-largest national park, located in Lapland, in the northernmost part of the country. It covers an area of over 2,500 square kilometers, featuring vast wilderness areas, rugged fells, and pristine forests. The park offers various hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and fishing activities. It’s also known for its unique cultural heritage, including traditional Sami reindeer herding communities.
Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park is located in western Lapland. The park is known for its stunning natural beauty, including vast wilderness areas, ancient forests, and picturesque fells. It offers visitors a wide range of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and skiing in the winter months. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including reindeer, moose, and golden eagles.
Syöte National Park is situated in the south-central region of Finland, in the Syöte fell area. The park boasts spectacular landscapes and diverse flora and fauna, including old-growth forests and beautiful mires. Visitors can enjoy hiking on the numerous trails in the park, skiing during the winter months, and observing wildlife such as moose, bears, and lynx. The park is also known for its birdwatching opportunities, with over 90 species of birds recorded in the area.
Autumn Colours
Finland’s autumn colours are truly breathtaking. As the leaves of deciduous trees begin to change, the landscape transforms into a stunning display of reds, oranges, and yellows. The changing of colors can typically be seen in late September and early October, depending on the location. Finland’s vast forests provide an ideal backdrop to witness this natural spectacle, and many people flock to the countryside to take in the sights. The autumn colours also signal the start of the harvest season, with locals and visitors alike taking part in berry picking, mushroom hunting, and other seasonal activities. Overall, Finland’s autumn colors offer a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone looking to witness the beauty of nature.
Equinox
Finland’s equinox marks the time when the length of day and night are roughly equal. This occurs twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. In the spring, Finland’s equinox falls around March 20th, while the fall equinox usually occurs around September 23rd. During these times, visitors to Finland can experience the changing of seasons, with the spring equinox signaling the start of longer days and warmer weather, and the fall equinox marking the beginning of longer nights and cooler temperatures. The equinox is also an important time for many cultures and traditions, with celebrations and rituals often taking place around this time. In Finland, the equinox is often marked by festivals and other events, with locals and visitors alike taking part in activities such as bonfires and outdoor concerts. Overall, Finland’s equinox provides a unique and memorable experience for anyone looking to witness the changing of seasons and immerse themselves in the country’s culture and traditions.
Discover the best holiday options in Finland with these recommended adventures
3-Day Helsinki – 4* Hotel Indigo Helsinki Boulevard
City Break
With an array of contemporary art galleries, fascinating museums and striking architecture, there is plenty to explore in this compact city. Set on the waterfront, enjoy picturesque views and a spectacular skyline.
Why we love this trip…
Explore the Suomenlinna island sea fortress
Discover the incredible architecture of Senate Square
Enjoy a trip to Kiasma Modern Art Gallery
Stroll through the serene Sibelius Park
Eat at one of Helsinki’s classic grill kiosks
Browse the vintage stores
** City Break Offers **
From £188pp
Includes 2 nights accommodation, return flights and ATOL protection
5-Day Wild Brown Bear Adventure
Short Break
From magnificent wild brown bears to elusive wolverine and sleek lynx, a trip to Kuhmo in Finland’s remote eastern wilderness feel like stepping straight into a nature documentary.
Why we love this holiday…
Witness brown bears in their natural habitat
Explore the ancient taiga forests
Spend a night in a specially designed hide
Watch out for wolves, wolverine and reindeer
Fantastic photography opportunities
Days stretch from twelve to sixteen hours
** Incredible wildlife photography adventure **
From £808pp
Price includes Hotel Kalevala accommodation on a half board basis, overnight in bear hide, Petola Nature Centre visit, transfers and ABTA protection
4-Day Autumn Auroras and Glamping in Lapland
Small Group Short Break
Escape the winter crowds during this 3-night autumn break to breathtaking Finnish Lapland. Jeris is a wilderness region away from light pollution and with an excellent Aurora track record.
Why we love this holiday…
See the Northern Lights reflect off the unfrozen Lake Jerisjärvi
Visit a reindeer and husky farm
Taka a hike in the national park
Relax at Arctic Sauna World with glass-fronted views of the lake
Spend 2 nights staying at Hotel Jeris
Enjoy 1 night’s stay in a Jeris Aurora Hut to view the aurora borealis
** A unique choice of holiday **
From £935pp
Price includes 3 nights accommodation in Jeris, 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners, guided tour activities and ABTA protection
5-Day Helsinki & Lakes
Short Break
Combine Finland’s lively capital with a forest stay on this short break in Finland. Spend nights at the luxurious St George Hotel in Helsinki before delving into pristine nature by staying in a unique Glamping Lodge at Haltia Lake Lodge.
Why we love this trip…
The eco-retreat Haltia Lake Lodge was awarded Best Sustainable Hotel in Europe in 2022
Explore Nuuksio National Park
Stay at the luxurious St. George Hotel in Helsinki
Discover the magic of Helsinki during the summer
** 4.7/5 Trustpilot Brand Rating **
From £1,255pp
Price includes 2 nights accommodation at St George Hotel Helsinki, 2 nights at Haltia Lake Lodge, breakfast, private transfers, Nuuksio National Park easy hike and return flights
5-Day Autumn Auroras at Wilderness Hotel Inari
Independent Tour
Immerse yourself in the red, gold and yellows that signify the Finnish Lapland ‘Ruska Season’ in Autumn. Combine autumnal hikes amongst the colourful forests with evenings spent searching for the northern lights at the cosy Wilderness Hotel Inari.
Why we love this trip…
Enjoy escapism and immersion in the remote landscapes of northern Finland
Learn about the Sámi culture in Inari and the surrounding area
Embark on a sightseeing tour around Inari village and Jäniskoski rapids at River Juutua
Go hiking in the fells, which are bursting in vibrant autumnal colours
Spend 3 nights sleeping Wilderness Hotel Inari’s Wilderness Room
Enjoy 1 night’s stay in Wilderness Hotel Inari’s Aurora Cabin with a direct view to the northern sky
** 4.7/5 Trustpilot Brand Rating **
From £1,565pp
Price includes 4 nights accommodation at Wilderness Hotel Inari, 4 breakfasts, lunch and dinner on selected days, transfers and return flights to Ivalo via Helsinki
6-Day Wellness & Wilderness Escape at Kuru Resort
Tailor-Made Holiday
Surrounded by pine forests, you’ll stay in a private adults-only villa where you’ll be transported to an oasis of luxury, from delicious local cuisine to spa treatments and a raft of excursions designed to connect you with nature.
Why we love this holiday…
Take a boat trip to Linnansaari National Park
Enjoy daily wellness classes
Relax in Kuru Resort’s lakeside sauna
Join a Saimaa Ringed Seal Safari
Delight in a 6-course chef’s menu at Solitary restaurant
** Find Adult-Only Bliss in the Heart of the Finnish Lakeland **
From £1,770pp
Price includes 2 nights accommodation at Lilla Roberts Hotel Helsinki, 3 nights at Kuru Resort, 6 breakfasts, experiences, transfers, return flights and ABTA protection
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