Snowy Peaks, Karelian Culture and Winter Adventures – 8 Days

Suomi Kolin maisemat

Discover the snow-covered landscapes of eastern Finland on a journey combining three distinctive winter destinations. The programme begins amid Koli’s iconic national landscapes, continues to the Karelian culture and lakeside setting of Bomba, and concludes with active winter experiences in Vuokatti.

Day 1 – Arrival in Kajaani and Transfer to Koli

Meet your driver and continue by private coach towards Koli, travelling through the wintry forests and lake landscapes of eastern Finland. Check in for two nights and enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Day 2 – Koli National Park and Finnish Sauna

After breakfast, meet your local guide and set out on a guided snowshoe excursion in Koli National Park. The experience begins with a short introduction to snowshoeing technique, so no previous experience is required. The route leads through the quiet, snow-covered forest towards Koli’s highest scenic viewpoints—Ukko-Koli, Akka-Koli and Paha-Koli—with sweeping views over frozen Lake Pielinen. Along the way, your guide shares stories about Koli’s nature, history and cultural significance, with time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, take photographs and become comfortable moving on snowshoes. A warm local berry juice is served from traditional Kupilka cups during the tour. The route and duration can be adapted to the weather and the group’s fitness level. Return for lunch and time to relax before a traditional Finnish sauna experience. Dinner and overnight in Koli.

Day 3 – From Koli to Bomba & Karelian Culture

Breakfast and check-out. Continue by private coach to Nurmes and the Bomba area on the shore of Lake Pielinen. After check-in, take an introductory walk around the Karelian-style Bomba House and village. Join a Karelian pie workshop and learn how to prepare this traditional local speciality. In the evening, enjoy a Karelian dinner. Overnight in Bomba.

Day 4 – Leisure and Optional Winter Activities in Bomba

The day is free to relax in the spa or choose from optional winter excursions such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, a husky experience or a snowmobile safari, subject to availability and weather conditions. If the sky is clear, the dark lakeside setting offers a chance to look for the Northern Lights.

Day 5 – Scenic Transfer to Vuokatti

After breakfast, depart Bomba for Vuokatti. The journey continues through the quiet winter landscapes of North Karelia and Kainuu, with a stop for lunch along the way. On arrival, check in for three nights and take time to become familiar with the resort. Dinner at the hotel.

Day 6 – Husky Adventure and Winter Fun

Meet an enthusiastic team of huskies and learn about life at the kennel before heading out on a guided sled ride through the snowy forest. A warm drink is served after the safari. Following lunch, the afternoon is free for optional downhill skiing or independent exploration. Dinner and overnight in Vuokatti.

Day 7 – Snowmobile Safari and Farewell Evening

After breakfast, set out on a full winter activity day with experienced local guides on a snowmobile safari showcasing the varied landscapes around Vuokatti. After safety instructions and guidance on operating the snowmobiles, ride up towards the Vuokatti hills before continuing along thickly snow-covered forest trails and across scenic frozen lake routes. The approximately 50-kilometre safari uses modern Touring model snowmobiles designed to provide a quiet, comfortable ride for both driver and passenger. Around halfway through the route, stop at Haapala BnB for lunch, including salad, soup, a main course and dessert. Return to Vuokatti and enjoy some free time before gathering for a final Finnish dinner and a relaxed farewell to Arctic Lakeland.

Day 8 – Departure from Kajaani

Breakfast and check-out. Private coach transfer from Vuokatti to Kajaani Airport.

This itinerary is priced from 1590€ per person, based on twin-share accommodation and a group of 30 travellers.

Inclusions

  • Private Pohjolan Matka coach and driver for your group
  • 7 nights’ accommodation: 2 nights in Koli, 2 nights in Bomba and 3 nights in Vuokatti with daily breakfast
  • Half-board dinners as described in the programme, including a Karelian dinner in Bomba and a farewell dinner in Vuokatti
  • Guided snowshoe excursion in Koli National Park with warm local berry juice
  • Traditional Finnish sauna experience in Koli
  • Karelian pie workshop & Karelian dinner in Bomba
  • Entrance to Spa Bomba
  • Guided husky kennel visit and sled ride in Vuokatti with a warm drink
  • Guided snowmobile safari in Vuokatti including lunch

    Tour availability: This itinerary is available from December to March.