Lakes, Forests and Legends: Hiking in Kuhmo’s Wild Taiga

This holiday takes you deep into the wild taiga forests of Eastern Finland, where silence, clean air and untouched nature define the landscape. Based in the small town of Kuhmo, close to the Russian border, you will explore national parks, nature reserves and scenic river landscapes shaped by the Ice Age. The programme combines guided hikes, local legends, open-fire meals and time to relax, offering an authentic experience of Finnish wilderness at an unhurried pace.

Day 1 – Arrival

Arrival at Kajaani Airport and transfer to Kuhmo. Upon arrival, you will check in at Hotel Kalevala, beautifully located on the shore of Lake Lammasjärvi and surrounded by forest.

Hotel Kalevala is a comfortable, family-run hotel inspired by the Finnish national epic, the Kalevala. The hotel architecture and interior design reflect local mythology and traditions, while the setting offers direct access to nature. Lakeside paths, forest trails and peaceful views begin right outside the hotel doors. During your stay, you will have access to guest facilities including evening sauna and jacuzzi.

In the evening, enjoy a three-course dinner at the hotel restaurant, featuring regional flavours and seasonal ingredients.

Day 2 – Lauttavaara Nature Trail and Lentua rapids

After breakfast, set out for your first guided hike, designed as an easy half-day introduction to the area.

After a short transfer, begin at the Lauttavaara Nature Trail, a marked circular trail of approximately 2 kilometres. The trail passes through old forest and presents clear examples of how the Ice Age shaped the landscape. Along the route, you will learn about forest ecology, glacial formations and sustainable forestry. The trail is easy to walk and well suited for a relaxed pace.

Next, continue to the Lentua Rapids area, where a short and easy trail of about 1.5 kilometres follows the river. The rapids were historically important as a transport route for timber and tar. Walking along the water, you will hear about the role rivers once played in everyday life in this remote region. During the hike, there will be a stop for coffee and snacks by the water.

Return to the hotel in the afternoon. In the evening, enjoy a three-course dinner followed by time to relax in the sauna or jacuzzi, or make use of the available outdoor equipment.

Day 3 – Hiidenportti National Park

Today you will explore Hiidenportti National Park, one of the most striking natural areas in the region. The park is known for its deep gorge, old forests and varied terrain of mires, ridges and river valleys.

According to Finnish folklore, a mythical creature called Hiisi once lived in this remote and quiet area. During the guided hike, you will walk along established trails leading to viewpoints over the Hiidenportti Gorge, a narrow rock canyon with steep cliff walls. The guide will share stories about the park’s legends, as well as information about the local nature and geology.

This is a full-day excursion lasting approximately six hours. A warm soup lunch will be prepared and enjoyed by an open fire at a designated rest area within the park.

Day 4 – Iso-Palonen Nature Reserve

After breakfast, depart for a guided hiking trip in the Iso-Palonen and Maariansärkät Nature Reserve. The hike follows established trails and forms a route of approximately 13 kilometres. The terrain is mostly easy, with gently varying landscapes.

The reserve is known for its scenic lakes, sandy beaches, long eskers formed during the Ice Age, and old pine forests. Along the way, you may see traces of wildlife activity, including signs of large predators such as bear and wolf, although actual sightings are rare.

Midway through the hike, you will stop at a campfire site where a light lunch will be cooked over an open fire. If weather and conditions allow, there is also an opportunity for a refreshing swim in one of the clear lakes near the lunch spot.

Return to the hotel in the afternoon or early evening.

Day 5 – Day at leisure or optional activities

Today is free for you to enjoy the surroundings at your own pace. You may choose to relax at the hotel, explore nearby forests and lakes, take a rowing boat out on the water, or enjoy the sauna and jacuzzi facilities.

Alternatively, you may add an optional bear watching excursion. In the evening, you will join experienced local guides and spend time in specially designed hides, quietly observing the forest as night approaches. This offers a chance to see brown bears in their natural habitat. This activity is subject to availability and advance booking. Please contact us for further details.

Day 6 – Departure

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer back to Kajaani Airport for your onward journey home.

Priced from 1150€ per person (based on 2 people sharing a room) including:

• Return airport transfers from Kajaani airport
• 5 night’s accommodation with half board (breakfast and 3-course dinner)
• Guided hiking trip to Lauttavaara and Lentua rapids (3-4 hours)
• Guided hiking trip to Hiidenportti national park with outdoor soup lunch
• Guided hiking trip to Iso-Palonen nature reserve
• Evening sauna and jacuzzi daily

Price excludes:

• Flights to Finland
• Personal travel insurance
• Hiking gear
• Alcoholic beverages and incidental spend