Hotel Kalevala, Kuhmo, Finland

Located in eastern Finland, a hefty six-hour (but stunningly scenic) drive from the capital Helsinki (although there are a selection of airports closer to the hotel) and close to the Russian border, is the beautiful Hotel Kalevala. Postioned on the shore of Lake Lammasjärvi, the beach and surrounding forest is the place to spend the summer months whilst the winter is best spent enjoying the surrounding snow-covered land and iced-waters. 

The hotel is fairly small with just 47 rooms; families can enjoy extended space with the use of interconnecting rooms. There are plenty of free-to-use activities and facilities, including a games room with computer consoles, badminton on the beach and a variety of DVD's and games in the library. Or why not treat yourself to a speciality spa treament and relax after a day in the fresh Finnish air. And not to forget the restaurant for a real taste of traditional local cuisine as well as international dishes for those not so adventurious when it comes to eating.

However, when you come to this part of the world there is so much more to explore and take part in, to make a family holiday to Hotel Kalevala a really magical experience. The hotel organise and host exciting activities and adventures thoughout the year. During the summer you can experience a bear watching night, an educational walk along the Finnish/Russian border, and a visit to a nearby Husky farm. You can also rent bikes to explore the area on two-wheels or hire a rowing boat to view the area from the lake. Then when it comes to winter, get the adrenalin running with a snow-mobile or husky safari, learn or develop your ski skills, swim in the local rapids or try your hand at ice fishing.