This autumn, inspired by my co-author Jenni’s extensive knowledge of cup-marked stones, I decided it was time to see them for myself. So, while passing through Hartola, I made a stop at the renowned cup-marked stone located near Eko Mansion. The southern regions of Kanta-Häme, Päijät-Häme, and Varsinais-Suomi are well-known for these ancient treasures, making my quest all the more intriguing. Our journey took us through idyllic landscapes before we arrived at Eko Mansion, which now serves as a school. Finding a parking spot was a bit of a challenge, but I finally settled on a spacious area next to…
Author: Finland Review
A Spring Awakening: Cherry Blossoms in Helsinki’s Roihuvuori Park As the gentle warmth of the spring sun bathes Helsinki, the cherry trees have unfurled their delicate pink petals in a resplendent show of beauty. This time of year, particularly in mid-May, Roihuvuori’s cherry blossom festival, known as hanami, would normally beckon residents and visitors alike. However, this year’s festivities have been canceled due to ongoing pandemic concerns. Still, the joy of outdoor exploration remains intact, as parks welcome visitors mindful of safety protocols. Determined to avoid the crowds, I set out early to experience the blossoms in Roihuvuori Kirsikkapuisto. By…
What began as a playful act of mischief would set the stage for a remarkable journey. In the late 1990s in Oulainen, a quaint town nestled in Finland’s North Ostrobothnia region, 12-year-old Päivi Kujanen found herself drawn into a minor sibling skirmish. Her younger sister, an ardent player of the five-string kantele—a traditional zither revered as Finland’s national instrument—was the target of her teasing, which Päivi deemed overly tedious. The turning point came when their uncle, having returned from a local auction, presented a striking 30-string kantele. He posed a question that stirred curiosity: which sister would take the plunge…
If you’re in search of a delightful family adventure in Finland, make sure Moomin World tops your list. Tucked away on the picturesque island of Kailo in Naantali, this enchanting theme park brings to life the whimsical characters created by the beloved Finnish author and illustrator, Tove Jansson. Moomin World masterfully intertwines imaginative storytelling with breathtaking natural landscapes, creating a unique experience that captivates children and invokes nostalgia in adults. Why Visit Moomin World? Unlike conventional theme parks filled with adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, Moomin World prioritizes immersive experiences and creativity. Families are invited to wander through life-sized replicas of Moomin…
Sure! Here’s a refined and engaging rewrite of the post: If you’re in search of a delightful, family-friendly escapade in Finland, Moomin World deserves a prominent spot on your travel itinerary. Perched on the picturesque island of Kailo in Naantali, this charming theme park draws inspiration from the beloved characters crafted by Finnish author and illustrator Tove Jansson. Moomin World weaves an enchanting tapestry of storytelling, natural beauty, and gentle amusement that captivates both children and those who fondly remember their own childhood encounters with these whimsical figures. Why Visit Moomin World? Moomin World is far from your conventional theme…
Could Finland’s National Animal Be Due for a Change? In 1985, the brown bear was crowned as Finland’s national animal following a public vote, but the question now arises: is it time for a shift? Heini Utunen, the regional director of South Savo, advocates for the Saimaa ringed seal to take that honor instead. This charming creature, endemic to the region, has become the focal point of conservation efforts in recent years, not to mention a beloved subject of live-streamed events that have captured the hearts of many. The original vote that declared the bear Finland’s national animal was organized…
Unlock Seamless European Travel with SAS Holidays for 2026 As travel enthusiasts gear up for 2026, SAS Holidays is poised to elevate your journey through some of Europe’s most enchanting destinations: Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Spain, Malta, Austria, and Switzerland. Imagine wandering the cobblestone streets of Copenhagen, basking in the midnight sun in Oslo, or savoring the breathtaking Alpine vistas in Switzerland. Each of these countries offers a rich tapestry of culture and natural beauty, making them prime spots for your next getaway. SAS Holidays has curated a selection of seamless travel packages designed to take the hassle out of…
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Nature offers us a delightful mix of planned trips and serendipitous discoveries. As we drove through Kuusamo with friends, a roadside marker caught our attention: Vanttajankangas. To our surprise, it was part of the vast 1,200-kilometer Salpalinja, a historical defense line that stretches along Finland’s eastern border. Having previously explored various fortresses and trenches etched into the Finnish landscape, we eagerly seized this chance to delve deeper on a rainy afternoon. Vanttajankangas: A Piece of Salpalinja Latch line. Image by Latch line blocks The Salpalinja, often referred to as the Salpa Line, extends magnificently from the Baltic Sea to near…
If you’ve experienced the bustling beauty of Roihuvuori Kirsikkapuisto during the cherry blossom season and are now in search of a more tranquil oasis, look no further than the Japanese-style garden of Roihuvuori. Nestled beside the iconic Roihuvuori water tower and just a stone’s throw from the cherry park, this garden offers a serene escape from the crowds. The presence of multiple parks and gardens reflecting Japanese aesthetics in East Helsinki’s Roihuvuori is a delightful enigma—though the “why” remains unclear, we’re certainly grateful for it. Upon arriving at the garden, I find myself rubbing my eyes in awe. This Japanese…