arctic lakeland finland
Best outdoor destination 2024
A unique Arctic Lakeland destination where you can experience both the southern and northern landscapes of Finland – large lakes and rocky hillsides can be seen during one trip.
Arctic Lakeland is located in the northernmost part of Lakeland Finland, the largest lake district in Europe.
ARRIVAL
Arctic Lakeland offers the perfect harmony of nature, culture and adventures.
Arctic Lakeland is a unique holiday destination to be discovered. All of our 7 main destinations (Vuokatti, Wild Taiga, Kuhmo, Hossa-Suomussalmi, Paljakka, Ukkohalla and Kajaani-Oulujärvi) are easily accessible within 30 minutes to 2.5 hours from Kajaani Airport.
Finnair will fly you with the blue and white wings over Helsinki to Kajaani.
Arrivals and connections between Kajaani Airport and your destination can be found here.
Finland offers a well-developed and reliable rail network. From Helsinki, you can easily travel to Kajaani by train. Trains are a comfortable and scenic way to travel.
The train journey from Helsinki to Kajaani takes about 6 hours.
Do you like it easy…
or do you have the guts for extreme?
BOOK YOUR SUMMER HOLIDAY
A variety of sUmmer activities and
packages for every taste
Arctic Lakeland offers a wide range of summer activities to suit all tastes, from action-packed to relaxed, for families and adults alike. Experience adventures on the lakes and hills, or discover the unique wildlife.
Wild Taiga
Accessible Tour in Kuhmo – Nature, Culture and History
Welcome to Kuhmo, close to nature and real experiences! Accommodation at the unique Hotel Kalevala in an accessible room. This…
Accessible Tour in Kuhmo – Nature, Culture and History
Welcome to Kuhmo, close to nature and real experiences! Accommodation at the unique Hotel Kalevala in an accessible room. This…
Wild Taiga
Special Mammals 7 days/ 6 nights
During the week you will have many possibilities to discover, observe and photograph the mammals of the wild taiga of…
Special Mammals 7 days/ 6 nights
During the week you will have many possibilities to discover, observe and photograph the mammals of the wild taiga of…
Wild Taiga
Nordic Wilderness Experience, 3 Nights Package
Buy online now! Discover the unique wilderness in eastern Finland. The highlight of this soft adventure must be bear watching…
Nordic Wilderness Experience, 3 Nights Package
Buy online now! Discover the unique wilderness in eastern Finland. The highlight of this soft adventure must be bear watching…
Wild Taiga
Finnish border hiking tour
Hut-to-hut hiking tour through Finnish eastern wilderness and in Hossa national park. Departures for groups on request.
Finnish border hiking tour
Hut-to-hut hiking tour through Finnish eastern wilderness and in Hossa national park. Departures for groups on request.
Wild Taiga
Two Centre's Photo tour
This combination program gives you a chance to see Bears, Wolverine, Wolf and Eagles in two different Centre’s. Martinselkonen Wilds…
Two Centre's Photo tour
This combination program gives you a chance to see Bears, Wolverine, Wolf and Eagles in two different Centre’s. Martinselkonen Wilds…
Wild Taiga
NATURE BASED WELL-BEING KAYAKING TOUR
Kainuu’s safe and healing nature surrounds us on this kayaking trip on Lake Lentua. Lentua is a beautiful Nature reserve,…
NATURE BASED WELL-BEING KAYAKING TOUR
Kainuu’s safe and healing nature surrounds us on this kayaking trip on Lake Lentua. Lentua is a beautiful Nature reserve,…
Wild Taiga
TAILORED WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR
Our tailored exclusive wildlife tours take you to the most remote areas in Europe, from South Lapland to the Russian…
TAILORED WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR
Our tailored exclusive wildlife tours take you to the most remote areas in Europe, from South Lapland to the Russian…
Wild Taiga
Northern national parks
Hiking tour for groups. Seven wonderful walking days and a canoeing excursion in three national parks – Hossa, Oulanka and…
Northern national parks
Hiking tour for groups. Seven wonderful walking days and a canoeing excursion in three national parks – Hossa, Oulanka and…
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
5 Day Kajaani-Oulujärvi Summer Getaway – Beautiful nature with relaxation in glass igloo
This summer getaway offers the perfect combination of freedom and chosen activities, making it ideal for couples or friends! Surrounded by sandy beaches and archipelago spurs, the lakeside landscape offers breathtaking …
5 Day Kajaani-Oulujärvi Summer Getaway – Beautiful nature with relaxation in glass igloo
This summer getaway offers the perfect combination of freedom and chosen activities, making it ideal for couples or friends! Surrounded by sandy beaches and archipelago spurs, the lakeside landscape offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. Kajaani is well-known for its pure nature with stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures, all alongside a vibrant cultural scene and rich literary heritage.
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
5 Day Kajaani Summer Experience – Pure nature & blue lakes
During this summer adventure, you’ll immerse yourself in the magic of the Finnish summer, with endless days and exciting activities for the entire family. Discover the jewel of Lake Oulujärvi,…
5 Day Kajaani Summer Experience – Pure nature & blue lakes
During this summer adventure, you’ll immerse yourself in the magic of the Finnish summer, with endless days and exciting activities for the entire family. Discover the jewel of Lake Oulujärvi, Ärjänsaari Island, where long sandy beaches and high sandbanks offer perfect opportunities for beach activities.
Vuokatti
5-Day Vuokatti Family Adventure – Fun, Relaxation and Active Days
Surrounded by pristine forests, rolling hills, and crystal-clear lakes, Vuokatti offers the perfect blend of activity and tranquility. This 5-day family adventure includes exciting indoor fun, water experiences, and relaxing…
5-Day Vuokatti Family Adventure – Fun, Relaxation and Active Days
Surrounded by pristine forests, rolling hills, and crystal-clear lakes, Vuokatti offers the perfect blend of activity and tranquility. This 5-day family adventure includes exciting indoor fun, water experiences, and relaxing spa moments – all in one easy-to-book package.
Vuokatti
5-Day Vuokatti Summer Escape – Lakes, Trails and Relaxation
This 5-day summer tour in Vuokatti offers the perfect mix of outdoor activity, gentle adventure, and time to relax. Whether you’re traveling with a partner, friends or on your own,…
5-Day Vuokatti Summer Escape – Lakes, Trails and Relaxation
This 5-day summer tour in Vuokatti offers the perfect mix of outdoor activity, gentle adventure, and time to relax. Whether you’re traveling with a partner, friends or on your own, this tour is the perfect way to slow down and enjoy the peaceful summer in the north and its beautiful landscapes. It’s an ideal way to recharge through nature while experiencing something new each day – without rush or pressure.
Vuokatti
8-Day Vuokatti Active Tour – Lakes, Trails and Adventures
Looking for a longer summer getaway filled with fun, nature and meaningful moments together? This 8-day Vuokatti escape is perfect for families with older kids or groups of friends and…
8-Day Vuokatti Active Tour – Lakes, Trails and Adventures
Looking for a longer summer getaway filled with fun, nature and meaningful moments together? This 8-day Vuokatti escape is perfect for families with older kids or groups of friends and couples who love to stay active and unwind in beautiful surroundings.
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
5 Day Kajaani-Oulujärvi Summer Adventure – Island cruise, kayaking & igloo experience
This is the ultimate “experience it all” tour! Choose your accommodation in Kajaani between two great options: the comfortable Hotel Kajanus or the charming, historic Manor House Karolineburg. Spend three…
5 Day Kajaani-Oulujärvi Summer Adventure – Island cruise, kayaking & igloo experience
This is the ultimate “experience it all” tour! Choose your accommodation in Kajaani between two great options: the comfortable Hotel Kajanus or the charming, historic Manor House Karolineburg. Spend three nights in Kajaani, exploring the scenic surroundings by the lake, and enjoy one unforgettable night in a unique glass igloo floating on Lake Oulujärvi.
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
5 Day Kajaani Summer Tour – Explore the Finnish Summer Bliss
Kajaani, located in the beautiful Kajaani-Oulujärvi region, offers a blend of cultural experiences, local delicacies, and a variety of outdoor activities. This tour will take you to the heart of…
5 Day Kajaani Summer Tour – Explore the Finnish Summer Bliss
Kajaani, located in the beautiful Kajaani-Oulujärvi region, offers a blend of cultural experiences, local delicacies, and a variety of outdoor activities. This tour will take you to the heart of Arctic Lakeland, where you can enjoy the beauty of the Finnish summer and its endless days with your family, offering a great mix of free time and the freedom to explore on your own.
Accommodation
Our unique accommodation
Experience a magical summer night under the glow of the Midnight Sun. Fall asleep with panoramic views of untouched nature and wake up to birdsong and fresh northern air. From the comfort of your bed, admire the ever-changing colors of the summer sky. Discover a collection of distinctive and luxurious accommodations that combine comfort, privacy and authentic Nordic design.
Holiday apartments, cottages and villas
Wild Taiga
Villa Cone Beach – Summer Wilderness Luxury
Villa Cone Beach hides in a small and authentic village away from crowded centres. Tourism, let alone mass tourism, is…
Villa Cone Beach – Summer Wilderness Luxury
Villa Cone Beach hides in a small and authentic village away from crowded centres. Tourism, let alone mass tourism, is…
Vuokatti
Aateli Lakeside Chalets
Lakeside Chalet apartments are part of the Hotel Aateli Lakeside, known before as Grand Hotel…
Aateli Lakeside Chalets
Lakeside Chalet apartments are part of the Hotel Aateli Lakeside, known before as Grand Hotel…
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Accommodation in Kotolinna
Kotolinna offers guests an old-timey atmosphere with modern comfort and inspiring facilities for remote work, parties and meetings along the…
Accommodation in Kotolinna
Kotolinna offers guests an old-timey atmosphere with modern comfort and inspiring facilities for remote work, parties and meetings along the…
Ukkohalla
Ukkohalla Ski Chalets 63 m²
Apartment hotel Ukkohalla is located at the Ukkohalla resort right next to the ski slopes, wellness services, and restaurants at…
Ukkohalla Ski Chalets 63 m²
Apartment hotel Ukkohalla is located at the Ukkohalla resort right next to the ski slopes, wellness services, and restaurants at…
Hossa-Suomussalmi
Camp Norwide/ Hossa Holiday Centre Ecolodge Rooms
Norwide’s ecolodge rooms are modern and comfortable rooms equipped with floor-to-ceiling bay windows with uninterrupted views of Lake Hossanjarvi.
Camp Norwide/ Hossa Holiday Centre Ecolodge Rooms
Norwide’s ecolodge rooms are modern and comfortable rooms equipped with floor-to-ceiling bay windows with uninterrupted views of Lake Hossanjarvi.
Vuokatti
Vuokatinmaa Holiday Apartments
Vuokatinmaa Holiday Apartments´ location on the shores of Lake Nuasjärvi ensures a perfect setting for…
Vuokatinmaa Holiday Apartments
Vuokatinmaa Holiday Apartments´ location on the shores of Lake Nuasjärvi ensures a perfect setting for…
Hossa-Suomussalmi
Eco-friendly Timber Houses (6 pcs)
The timber semi-detached houses are located alongside Hossa National Park, by the crystal clear waters of Lake Öllöri. The routes…
Eco-friendly Timber Houses (6 pcs)
The timber semi-detached houses are located alongside Hossa National Park, by the crystal clear waters of Lake Öllöri. The routes…
Paljakka
Accommodation Kotipaljakka apartment
Accommodation for 4+2 persons
Accommodation Kotipaljakka apartment
Accommodation for 4+2 persons
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Arctic Giant Birdhouse Hotel Jättiläisenmaa
Feel free as a bird as you arrive at the hilltop and enter the Arctic Giant, located in Paltamo, high…
Arctic Giant Birdhouse Hotel Jättiläisenmaa
Feel free as a bird as you arrive at the hilltop and enter the Arctic Giant, located in Paltamo, high…
Hotels
Vuokatti
Hotel Aateli Hillside in Vuokatti
Hotel Aateli – a spectacular slope side accommodation in Vuokatti, is located right next to…
Hotel Aateli Hillside in Vuokatti
Hotel Aateli – a spectacular slope side accommodation in Vuokatti, is located right next to…
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Manor House Hotel Karolineburg
Atmospheric accommodation in a manor very close to the Kajaani city centre. Staying overnight includes breakfast under chandeliers.
Manor House Hotel Karolineburg
Atmospheric accommodation in a manor very close to the Kajaani city centre. Staying overnight includes breakfast under chandeliers.
Kuhmo
Hotel Kalevala
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Hotel Kajanus
Hotel Kajanus is a comfortable 181-room hotel located very close to Kajaani city centre.
Hotel Kajanus
Hotel Kajanus is a comfortable 181-room hotel located very close to Kajaani city centre.
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Original Sokos Hotel Valjus
Original Sokos Hotel Valjus offers high-quality accommodation, conference and restaurant services in the centre of Kajaani. The hotel also offers…
Original Sokos Hotel Valjus
Original Sokos Hotel Valjus offers high-quality accommodation, conference and restaurant services in the centre of Kajaani. The hotel also offers…
Vuokatti
Break Sokos Hotel Vuokatti
Break Sokos Hotel Vuokatti is located in the heart of Vuokatti, which is Finland´s most…
Break Sokos Hotel Vuokatti
Break Sokos Hotel Vuokatti is located in the heart of Vuokatti, which is Finland´s most…
Summer Weekly Programme
Programmes run from June 15th to September 27th.
A deep connection with nature is also one of the most important reasons for the Finns’ daily sense of happiness. Scientific studies show that spending time in natural surroundings can reduce stress, improve mood and enhance mental well-being. In Arctic Lakeland, you will find many activities inspired by Finnish nature as well as interesting places to visit. You will never run out of things to do!
The best features of Arctic Lakeland, offering a variety of summer experiences and adventures.
Reserve your summer adventures from the weekly programme at least 1-2 day in advance, unless otherwise noted.
Please check availability and make reservations for the programmes directly with the service providers.
Weekly Programme
Summer 2026
MORE GUIDED ACTIVITIES AND EXPERIENCES
Places to visit
MORE VARIETY to your summer adventure
Beyond guided experiences, Arctic Lakeland is home to hidden natural gems and unique places waiting to be explored. Discover natural and cultural attractions that reveal the character and beauty of the region.
nature attractions
Explore the wild beauty of Arctic Lakeland Finland, from the sandy shores to rocky hillsides.
Hossa-Suomussalmi
The Musical Forest
Lomakyläntie 27, 89600 Suomussalmi “Soiva Metsä,” or “The Musical Forest,” is a unique system of large instruments built in the…
The Musical Forest
Lomakyläntie 27, 89600 Suomussalmi “Soiva Metsä,” or “The Musical Forest,” is a unique system of large instruments built in the…
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Ärjänsaari Island
The Ärjänsaari island is the jewel of Lake Oulujärvi. Long sandy beaches and high sand banks create a setting for…
Ärjänsaari Island
The Ärjänsaari island is the jewel of Lake Oulujärvi. Long sandy beaches and high sand banks create a setting for…
Hossa-Suomussalmi
Hossa National Park
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Rehjansaari Island
A few kilometres from the centre of Kajaani, Rehjansaari Island on Lake Nuasjärvi is a small, natural and pleasant trekking…
Rehjansaari Island
A few kilometres from the centre of Kajaani, Rehjansaari Island on Lake Nuasjärvi is a small, natural and pleasant trekking…
MUST-SEE CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS
Explore the must-see cultural highlights of Arctic Lakeland – fascinating museums, unique exhibitions, and authentic heritage sites that bring the region’s history, art, and local traditions to life.
Hossa-Suomussalmi
The Silent People
The Silent People is a bizarre sight; roughly a thousand peat-headed characters standing still at the Käpylä field alongside the…
The Silent People
The Silent People is a bizarre sight; roughly a thousand peat-headed characters standing still at the Käpylä field alongside the…
Hossa-Suomussalmi
Winter War Museum Raatteen Portti
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Kajaani Castle Ruins
Built back in the 1600s, Kajaani Castle loomed over an important waterway between Ostrobothnia and Russian Karelia. The castle ruins…
Kajaani Castle Ruins
Built back in the 1600s, Kajaani Castle loomed over an important waterway between Ostrobothnia and Russian Karelia. The castle ruins…
Kuhmo
Juminkeko Kalevala Exhibitions
Hossa-Suomussalmi
Untold Arctic Wars – Digital War History Exhibition
Kuhmo
Kuhmo Winter War Museum
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Paltaniemen kuvakirkko – Paltaniemi old church
Enjoy a delightful visit to the Paltaniemi old church, which is over 300 years old. The old church is located…
Paltaniemen kuvakirkko – Paltaniemi old church
Enjoy a delightful visit to the Paltaniemi old church, which is over 300 years old. The old church is located…
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Kainuu Museum in Kajaani
Visit the Kainuu Museum’s permanent exhibition, you will discover Kainuu’s history and culture from prehistoric times until the mid-20th century.…
Kainuu Museum in Kajaani
Visit the Kainuu Museum’s permanent exhibition, you will discover Kainuu’s history and culture from prehistoric times until the mid-20th century.…
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Kajaani Art Museum
Kajaani Art Museum – small but great! Check out the wide range of exhibitions at the museum located in the…
Kajaani Art Museum
Kajaani Art Museum – small but great! Check out the wide range of exhibitions at the museum located in the…
Local restaurants and cafés
A Taste of local specialities
The foundation of Finnish cuisine lies in the use of fresh, natural ingredients sourced directly from the country’s clean lakes, fields and forests. The summers and growing seasons are short but intense, providing nature’s ingredients with plenty of vitamins and minerals.
Wild Taiga
Restaurant Kanteletar Hotel Kalevala
Our cuisine is designed for international taste and we are proudly using local products like fish, meat and berries. The…
Restaurant Kanteletar Hotel Kalevala
Our cuisine is designed for international taste and we are proudly using local products like fish, meat and berries. The…
Vuokatti
Restaurant Ainoa
Restaurant Ainoa is located at Hotel Aateli. The restaurant creates variations of different combinations of…
Restaurant Ainoa
Restaurant Ainoa is located at Hotel Aateli. The restaurant creates variations of different combinations of…
Wild Taiga
Niittykahvila Cafe of the Silent People
Niittykahvila Cafe of the Silent People offers an unforgettable experience for all motorists driving along Highway 5. Almost in the…
Niittykahvila Cafe of the Silent People
Niittykahvila Cafe of the Silent People offers an unforgettable experience for all motorists driving along Highway 5. Almost in the…
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Pekka Heikkinen Bakery Shop and Café
The bakery–confectionery founded by Pekka Heikkinen in 1913 starts buzzing early in the morning. Customers are buying loaves of bread…
Pekka Heikkinen Bakery Shop and Café
The bakery–confectionery founded by Pekka Heikkinen in 1913 starts buzzing early in the morning. Customers are buying loaves of bread…
Vuokatti
Haapala Restaurant & Brewery
Haapala Restaurant is located in the peaceful countryside near the Vuokatti ski slopes in Sotkamo.…
Haapala Restaurant & Brewery
Haapala Restaurant is located in the peaceful countryside near the Vuokatti ski slopes in Sotkamo.…
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Restaurant Ranch
Restaurant Ranch has been charming guests with its warm atmosphere, good service and delicious dishes for 20 years. Ranch also…
Restaurant Ranch
Restaurant Ranch has been charming guests with its warm atmosphere, good service and delicious dishes for 20 years. Ranch also…
Vuokatti
Pioppo Kitchen & Bar
Pioppo Kitchen & Bar is a cozy and modern restaurant located in the heart of…
Pioppo Kitchen & Bar
Pioppo Kitchen & Bar is a cozy and modern restaurant located in the heart of…
Events and Festivals
Unforgettable moments in the heart of nature
Celebrate summer in Arctic Lakeland through unique events and festivals set in beautiful northern landscapes. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there is something for everyone.
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Ärjä Arctic Swim
Welcome to the ÄRJÄ ARCTIC SWIM open water swimming event on Saturday August 8, 2026, at 1:00 PM on Ärjänsaari…
Ärjä Arctic Swim
Welcome to the ÄRJÄ ARCTIC SWIM open water swimming event on Saturday August 8, 2026, at 1:00 PM on Ärjänsaari…
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Ärjä Arctic Walk
Taking place for the first time, the Ärjä Arctic Walk outdoor activity event is part of the Oulu2026 European Capital…
Ärjä Arctic Walk
Taking place for the first time, the Ärjä Arctic Walk outdoor activity event is part of the Oulu2026 European Capital…
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Ärjä Arctic Swim-Run
Welcome to the first ever ÄRJÄ ARCTIC SWIM-RUN event on Ärjänsaari Island on Saturday July 18, 2026 at 1 pm.
Ärjä Arctic Swim-Run
Welcome to the first ever ÄRJÄ ARCTIC SWIM-RUN event on Ärjänsaari Island on Saturday July 18, 2026 at 1 pm.
Vuokatti
Ärjä Arctic Trail Run
Welcome to ÄRJÄ ARCTIC TRAIL RUN trail running event on Suturday, August 15, 2026, at…
Ärjä Arctic Trail Run
Welcome to ÄRJÄ ARCTIC TRAIL RUN trail running event on Suturday, August 15, 2026, at…
Kajaani-Oulujärvi
Ärjä Arctic Swim Challenge
Welcome to the ÄRJÄ ARCTIC SWIM CHALLENGE open water swim event on Sunday August 1, 2026, at 1:00 PM on…
Ärjä Arctic Swim Challenge
Welcome to the ÄRJÄ ARCTIC SWIM CHALLENGE open water swim event on Sunday August 1, 2026, at 1:00 PM on…
Wild Taiga
Kainuu Trail Hossa National Park (Finland) – trail running event
Kainuu Trail Hossa National Park (Finland) is a trail running event in a trail runner’s paradise – Hossa National Park.…
Kainuu Trail Hossa National Park (Finland) – trail running event
Kainuu Trail Hossa National Park (Finland) is a trail running event in a trail runner’s paradise – Hossa National Park.…
Hossa-Suomussalmi
58th Kainuu Orienteering Week Finland 28.6.-3.7.2026
Wild Taiga
Kuhmo Chamber Music 2026
The other side of summer
Arctic Lakeland Finland is a true year-round holiday destination. In every season, visitors can discover vast northern landscapes, explore scenic nature trails, and experience authentic cultural events.
Once you visit Arctic Lakeland, you may find yourself returning again and again to its peaceful lakes, forests, and unique atmosphere.
Discover what Arctic Lakeland Finland has to offer in winter and book your next holiday in this unforgettable northern destination.
TRAVEL ARTICLE
10+1 Sauna Experiences in Arctic Lakeland
In Arctic Lakeland, you can experience the Finnish sauna in many ways. We have listed tips for 10+1 different sauna experiences in the area. How about a bear sauna, a sleigh sauna on a frozen lake or an entire sauna world? Explore our wide range of options and choose your favorites for your next holiday!
Sustainable Tourism
Here in Arctic Lakeland, we have been operating responsibly for a long time and continue to work constantly to offer our guests even more sustainable tourism services. As with many things, responsible action begins with small but important steps.
We warmly welcome you and wish you a wonderful summer holiday in Arctic Lakeland Finland!
