Finland's eastern gem offers visitors an authentic wilderness experience in one of the world's most pristine boreal forest ecosystems: North Karelia.

This vast expanse of nature represents the soul of Finland's forest culture and serves as a crucial carbon sink in our fight against climate change.

North Karelia allows us to explore ancient Finnish wilderness traditions while contributing to sustainable tourism practices.

Adventures for everyone

From a paddleboard in Pielinen, to a 3-day canoe tour in Lake Koitere, and a boat house at the Ukonniemi Vineyard. Summers in Finland redefine the traditional European summers that live on in everyone's collective memory.

Endless forests stretching to the horizon, crystal-clear lakes reflecting towering pines, and the chance to spot Europe's largest predators in their natural habitat. North Karelia's boreal forest is a journey into the wild heart of Finland. That's why it has earned the title of the soul of Finland.

Understanding the Boreal Forest ecosystem

Stretching across eastern Finland near the Russian border, the North Karelia region encompasses thousands of hectares of pristine boreal forest -also known as taiga.

The forest plays a vital role in global climate regulation, storing massive amounts of carbon dioxide and producing oxygen for the planet.

This ecosystem represents one of the most significant forest biomes on Earth. Finland's taiga forests are full of pines, spruces, and birch, with these hardy conifers capable of surviving under snow for up to six months annually.

The region's boreal forest contains over 70% forest coverage, making it one of the most densely forested areas in Europe.

What makes it special?

• Home to Finland's largest brown bear population.

• Wilderness with minimal tourist crowds.

• Authentic Karelian culture and traditions.

• World-class hiking, wildlife watching, and outdoor adventures.

• Plays a crucial role in fighting climate change as a massive carbon sink.

SPANISH SECTION:

Lugares para visitar en Madrid (guía local definitiva)

Con más de 11 millones de visitantes en 2024, la capital española es la ciudad más visitada. El triángulo dorado del arte y las plazas son su mayor atractivo, pero los lugares para visitar en Madrid van más allá de éste.

España y México comparten años de historia, pero también una calidez humana que conquista a ambas culturas. Madrid es una ciudad que se disfruta en las calles, en los mercados y en cada uno de sus barrios. Fuera de los sitios abarrotados por el turismo masivo, encuentras la ciudad que late de verdad.

Getting into the Soul of Finland

North Karelia isn't just about nature – it's the cultural heartland of Finland. The boreal forest here has shaped centuries of folklore, traditions, and the Finnish way of life.

The Kalevala Connection inspired Finland's national epic, the Kalevala. Many of the mythical locations described in the epic can be found in North Karelia's boreal forest. Local guides can show you places where ancient legends come alive.

You Can't Miss

Trying the authentic Finnish smoke sauna followed by a dip in a forest lake – it's a spiritual experience in the heart of the boreal forest.

Learn how to prepare traditional Karelian local dishes like Karelian pasties, fish soup, and berry desserts using ingredients from the boreal forest. Or you can just go to Bistro Heili and enjoy the creamy salmon soup and a lemon cream with berries.

Also, you must join locals around campfires to hear ancient tales and legends of the boreal forest – some stories date back thousands of years. The tale of Tapio, the God who protects the boreal forest and all the creatures that inhabit it, is my favorite.