Finland walking vacations travel guide

Finland features quite outstanding wilderness areas. Its boardwalks over bird-abundant wetlands, and easygoing routes past pristine lakes and lichen-covered spruce, ensure summer strolls are as satisfying as blue skies and blueberry pancakes. Walks don't stop when the snow falls, however, and as this is when snow shoes come into play. This does require a certain element of exercise though, if you were thinking it was going to be all downhill. Another, relatively energetic, Finnish pastime is hiking with huskies. This involves a harness, a dog and a fair bit of core control as you embark on a power-assisted hike that benefits the dogs and local people just as much as walkers. Finally, Finns have thought of everything when it comes to alleviating walking-related aches; from hot tubs and saunas to strong coffee and picnics around open fires, Finland is where enjoying the outdoors in all four seasons really comes into its own.

The beauty of walking in Finland is that you can do it all year round with wilderness trails through pine and spruce forests equally as rewarding when decorated with wild berries and mushrooms during the summer, or a blanket of thick snow in winter.

Another walking vacation format where Finland excels is hiking with huskies. Not only is this a great way to enjoy the great outdoors but it's also fantastic exercise for the dogs – who have busy winter seasons pulling sleds, but often struggle to get out and about enough during the snow-free summer months. Huskies are incredibly intelligent, loving and loyal creatures, and walking 12km with the same dog – every day if you wish – lets you bond with your husky, as well as participating in a traditional Finnish activity that benefits both the natural world and local people living in these remote, rural regions.