Arctic Lakeland Summer Week: Bear Watching, Reindeer & Steamship Cruise

Image: Arctic Lakeland, Kari Kemppainen

This summer group tour through North-Eastern Finland highlights the region’s most memorable nature and wildlife experiences. Cruise across vast lakes on a historic steamship, visit a white-sand island, and stay in characterful forest and lakeside accommodations. Meet the iconic animals of the North with visits to reindeer and husky farms, and enjoy an unforgettable bear-watching evening, observing wild brown bears in their natural habitat from purpose-built hides. Complementing these highlights are traditional smoke saunas, national park scenery, local food experiences, and time to swim in clear lakes and enjoy the calm rhythm of the Finnish summer.

Day 1 – Arrival

Arrive at Oulu, Kajaani, or Kuopio Airport, where a comfortable Pohjolan Matka coach transfer brings you north into the heart of nature. Your destination is the extraordinary Arctic Giant Birdhouse Hotel, offering wide views across the forests and lakes of the Paltamo area.

Step into a magical world inspired by forest spirits and Nordic legends, surrounded by endless woodland views. Enjoy a welcoming drink followed by a delicious dinner at the hotel’s atmospheric Makuhelmi Restaurant. Overnight at Arctic Giant Birdhouse Hotel.

Day 2 – Steamship Adventure

Set sail on Finland’s northernmost steamship, S/S Kouta, for a scenic day cruise across Lake Oulujärvi to the Ärjänsaari Island, with it’s long sandy beaches. A light lunch is served onboard as you glide across shimmering waters.

Continue onward to the charming town of Kuhmo, where you’ll stay at the intimate Hotel Kalevala, a unique lakeside retreat nestled among ancient forests just outside the town center. Enjoy a welcome drink and a delicious ‘Old Times Dinner’, a 6–7 course culinary journey inspired by regional traditions. Overnight at Hotel Kalevala.

Day 3 – Kalevala Legends & Timeless Traditions

After breakfast, the lake offers the opportunity for a refreshing swim.

Afterwards you’ll dive into myth and folklore with a guided visit to Juminkeko, one of Finland’s leading Kalevala cultural centers, where ancient stories come alive. Lunch awaits at Haapala B&B Brewery, including a brewery tour and tasting.

In the afternoon, uncover the Mystery of the Arctic Garden, a fascinating two-hour experience blending nature, storytelling, and sensory discovery.

As evening falls, head to Lentiira Holiday Village for a truly authentic Finnish experience: a traditional smoke sauna, a cooling swim, and dinner at the rustic Pirtti Restaurant, rich in atmosphere and local flavour.

Day 4 – Bear Watching

Visit the Petola Nature Centre, where you’ll learn about Finland’s iconic large carnivores such as bears, wolves, lynx, and wolverines. After lunch at the hotel, enjoy guided outdoor activities in the surrounding wilderness.

In the evening, prepare for an unforgettable highlight: bear watching at a nearby Bear Centre.

Observe these majestic animals safely from purpose-built hides in their natural habitat – an exceptional opportunity to observe them in the wild.

Day 5 – Cultural Landscapes & the Sound of the Forest

Travel to Suomussalmi and explore the enchanting Soiva Metsä (Musical Forest), where art and nature harmonise.

Take part in a hands-on baking workshop in the idyllic log house Vanha Kurimo, followed by a comforting soup lunch. For dessert, visit the evocative Silent People Café, enjoying traditional fire-brewed kettle coffee and buttery Finnish crêpes amid a striking cultural landscape.

Continue to Saija Lodge in Taivalkoski for dinner and a peaceful overnight stay surrounded by nature.

Day 6 – Arctic Life & National Park Wonders

Experience everyday life on a husky farm and visit a traditional reindeer farm, learning about them and the people who care for them.

Explore the pristine beauty of Hossa National Park, known for its crystal-clear lakes, pine forests, and tranquil hiking trails.

Dinner and overnight at Saija Lodge, where the quiet of the wilderness completes your final evening in Finnish Lapland.

Day 7 – Farewell to the North

After check-out, transfer to Oulu or Kajaani Airport for your onward journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of Finland’s summer magic, warm traditions, and untouched nature.

Priced from 1495€ per person including:

  • 1 night at Arctic Giant Birdhouse Hotel
  • 1 night at Hotel Kalevala
  • 2 nights at Saija Lodge
  • Daily breakfast
  • Welcome drinks at Arctic Giant Birdhouse Hotel and Hotel Kalevala
  • Dinner at Makuhelmi Restaurant
  • Old Times Dinner (6–7 courses) at Hotel Kalevala
  • Dinner at Pirtti Restaurant
  • Lunch at Haapala B&B Brewery with brewery tour and tasting
  • Soup lunch and dessert at Vanha Kurimo & Silent People Café
  • Day cruise on historic S/S Kouta steamship to Ärjänsaari Island with light lunch
  • Visit to Juminkeko Folklore Centre
  • Mystery of Arctic Garden experience
  • Traditional smoke sauna and swimming at Lentiira Holiday Village
  • Visit to Petola Nature Centre
  • Bear watching evening
  • Visits to husky farm and reindeer farm
  • Excursion to Hossa National Park
  • Baking workshop at Vanha Kurimo
  • Musical Forest experience at Soiva Metsä
  • Airport transfers from Oulu/Kajaani/Kuopio airports via Pohjolan Matka coach
  • All transfers between accommodations and activity sites as per itinerary