Lakes, Forests and Bears of Finland

Immerse yourself in one of Europe’s largest wild forest areas and experience the pleasures of nature with pure air, clean water and tranquillity of the Arctic Lakeland region. With over 5000 lakes, ponds and rivers, an endless supply of paths, trails and activities, this central area of Finland can be considered as ‘the great outdoors’ and suitable for everyone to enjoy.

Spend the long days under the midnight sun on the crystal clear lakes, seeking hidden beaches and enjoying gentle hikes through old pine forests, before relaxing back at your luxurious hilltop cabin with breathtaking views from the private terrace and jacuzzi.

The region is one of the few destinations where wildlife watching is possible all year - stay in purpose built cabins and marvel at the magnificent brown bears in their natural environment from the large panoramic windows, and keep watch for wolf, wolverine, moose and the elusive lynx - an unforgettable experience!

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Cabin with a view

Paddle scenic lakes

Wild bear

Wild Brown Bear Cabin

Relaxation is everywhere

Forest Trails

Giant Bird House View

Forest reindeer

Giant Bird House

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN

Day 1

Welcome to the beautiful Lakeland region of Finland. After collecting your hire car, drive to the Arctic Giant Birdhouse Hotel, an hour’s drive away, and your home for the next 4 nights. Settle into your luxury accommodation, situated in an elevated position and blessed with unbelievable views of the lakes and forests of the Northern Lakeland.

Later, enjoy a hearty dinner in the hotel’s restaurant before easing away the day's travels with a hot sauna and jacuzzi, if your chosen lodgings include one, and relax in peaceful natural surroundings.

Staying at: Arctic Giant Bird House Hotel

Day 2

After a healthy Finnish breakfast with a selection of local delicacies, your first active day begins from the hotel on a guided hike to the oldest part of the Kainuu and Kivesvaara hill region. The trail follows quite easy terrain, mostly small forest roads and includes a visit to the Night Birds Gorge, which is one of the most interesting natural sights in the Paltamo area. The hike continues with a short trip to the highest point with views across the shimmering lake under the summer sun. The local guide will tell you about the nature and wildlife in the area, taking time for you to appreciate the natural environment. The walk lasts about 3 hours, and afterwards enjoy a picnic lunch while marvelling at the views.

Relax back at the cabin and wait with anticipation for the evening meal, which is included throughout your stay.

Day 3

Today, join a guided excursion to waterfall “Hepoköngäs”, one of the area's main attractions. The waterfall, located in the beautiful landscape of Kainuu, is 24 metres high. The thunder of the falls can be heard as you approach from the trail leading to the falls, but please note, the route is barrier free up to the viewing platform so care should be taken. The guide will share information along the nature trail explaining about the geology, history and typical vegetation of the area. The tour lasts between 4 and 5 hours, with a picnic lunch included.

Only half an hour drive away from the lodge, you could visit the Kivipuisto Stone Park which explains all about the geology and history of the area.

Day 4

After another delicious breakfast, hop on an electrically assisted eFatbike on a guided 3-4 hour tour along the forest tracks and sandy paths, navigating the ups and downs and twists and turns in this stunning wilderness setting. Stop as often as you like to catch a breath, and a snapshot of the picturesque surroundings. After the tour, sit down for a well-deserved lunch break.

If you still have some energy, it is possible to rent kayaks at an additional charge, which are also suitable for beginners. Enjoy the calmness of the moment and admire the landscape from the open lakes - a fantastic way to experience the natural environment.

Day 5

It is time to leave the Arctic Giant Bird House hotel behind and make the picturesque two hour journey east, towards the Russian border. On the way you can take a slight detour and visit Petola Nature Centre in Kuhmo, showing wildlife exhibitions, nature films and information on the wildlife found in the wild forests of the area.

After the scenic drive you will arrive at Wild Brown Wilderness Centre, which specialises in brown bear, wolverine and wolf photography. This area offers a great variety of terrain and an excellent opportunity to capture the wildlife at close quarters. The accommodation for two nights is in high quality cabins situated on a hill in the forest, with panoramic windows offering an unbelievable view. Here you can see the wildlife and pure nature, with sightings of bears a very regular occurrence. The programme for the evening starts with an early dinner at the Bear Centre nearby before settling into the comfortable cabins, waiting for the real time wildlife show to begin.

Staying at: Luxury Bear Hide Cabin

Day 6

Breakfast is served at the main lodge, and after a busy night keeping watch for the bears, spend time relaxing in the cabin, ever on the lookout for any animals and birds that call this wilderness their home. Or you may wish to explore the area hiking on the trails, paddling on the lake and enjoying the peacefulness of the wilderness.

After the early meal, get set again for another evening observing the wonderful wildlife from the luxurious setting of your cabin.

Day 7

On your departure day, enjoy a tasty breakfast before driving back to Kajaani airport in time for your flight home. The journey takes approximately 90 minutes.

Please note, the restaurant at Arctic Giant Bird House Hotel is only open from Wednesday to Saturday, so arrivals are set to Wednesday at this hotel for a 4 night stay.

BUDGET

From £2,231 per person (excluding flights), based on 2 adults sharing on a cabin in both resorts, half-board basis with some lunches included, car hire for the duration of your stay and activities as mentioned in the itinerary.

This roughly converts to: 2,566 EUR | 2,923 USD

Remember that each trip we craft is unique, and you'll receive a personalised trip proposal based on your travel dates and preferences, and in the currency of your choice (GBP, USD, or EUR).

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Additional Info

This trip has weekly set arrival and departure days on: Wed, Thu

Many of trips can be tailored to your requirements and departure dates. Please get in touch with us for a tailored quotation and details of availability for your preferred travel dates. All trips and departures are subject to availability.

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