Family Holidays: Finland family holidays

Take the Family holiday rating 4 stars out of 5

Why

If you’re considering a visit to Finland then Finland’s easternmost province, Karelia, which lies along the border with Russia is the place to go. Deep in snow throughout winter, it’s at its best when the days get longer and the temperature starts to rise. This wilderness of frozen lakes, endless forests and snow-covered hills makes the perfect setting for an active and exciting family winter break. You can travel by snowmobile across the unfamiliar snowy landscape, spend time dog-sledding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. There’s also the chance to do some downhill skiing, and there are plenty of opportunities to take a traditional Finnish sauna. From the summit of Ukko Koli you get to see what is probably the most famous view in Finland – the icy expanse of Lake Pielinen with trees covered by a thick blanket of snow.

We think families can have a fantastic adventure in Finland as long as they prepare well and would recommend an escorted adventure trip or a city break to Helsinki.

Top left: Adventurous lunch
Top right: Adventure snowballs

Bottom left: Snowbiking
Bottom right: Snowmobile excursion

When

Finland’s winters are severe, yet in spring the days are often clear and sunny. In Karelia the ground is usually covered in snow from December to April. Temperatures range from -5°C to 0°C during the day, but can drop to -15°C or even lower at night. Spring usually arrives at the end of April, when the snow melts quickly.

How

take the plane

Fly from London or other UK airports to Helsinki in around three hours. For Karelia take a second 45 minute flight to Joensuu.

Stay

If you are choosing the escorted adventure way to visit Finland accommodation is in a comfortable country inn and in a traditional rustic farmhouse.

Otherwise, Helsinki is well represented by most international chains.

Do

An adventure trip to Finland would provide the following experience:

Winter Wilderness & Snowshoeing
Finnish Karelia is a vast area of pristine lakes, endless forests and mountains. By February the winter days are a bit warmer and longer – it’s a wonderful time to explore the snowy landscape. From a comfortable base in the Vuonislahti region you’ll head out for your first exciting activity – snowshoeing across this beautiful white wilderness!

Activities in the Snow
Next you set off on cross-country skis and later try your hand at fishing through a hole cut in the ice. During your stay you'll have plenty of time to build igloos and have snowball fights.

You'll also have the opportunity to walk to the summit of Ukko Koli, (for the most famous view in Finland over icy Lake Pielinen) and for some downhill skiing (optional). Finally there’s a day to explore on snowmobiles and drive real huskies on their sleds – an adventure to end all adventures!

Eat

Fish, in particular salmon, figures prominently on most menus – hardly a surprise given that there are over 60,000 lakes in Finland! Sweden and Russia provided the inspiration for a whole variety of tempting pastries and you'll also come across reindeer, delicious homemade cheese and wild berries.

Cost

If you are opting for an escorted adventure trip, flight inclusive prices start at £869 for adults (£819 for children) and rise to £949 for adults depending on time of year.

City breaks to Helsinki vary substantially, depending on time of year and accommodation standards.