Finland SummerMulti-Activity

Kajaani Airport to Hotel Kalevala is approximately 1hr 35 minutes.

There is often confusion on the question of gratuities, since it frequently depends on the type of holiday, location and, of course, your attitude towards tipping, as to what is normally expected. To give you a rough idea, we have given appropriate guidance below. Your Tour Leader will be on hand to offer advice or suggestions if required but gratuities are offered entirely at the sole discretion of the individual. We suggest a group collection at the beginning of your holiday to cover drivers, guides, porters, and hotel staff of approximately EUR 30.00 per person. Your Tour Leader will collect this on your behalf and distribute it accordingly, thus relieving you of the burden of who, when and how much to tip.

You may wish to take an optional excursion during the course of your stay. Full details will be given at the Information Meeting. Your Tour Leader will help arrange these for you but may not necessarily accompany you. Please note: - Optional excursions are not guaranteed and are based on minimum numbers. The prices quoted are guideline only and may involve other non-Solos travelers. 

Wellbeing, Nature & Local Life

Forest Resin Experience, 3-4hrs | €139 pp

Immerse yourself in the peaceful Finnish wilderness and discover the traditional uses of spruce resin, a natural substance long valued for its beneficial properties. After a short 15-minute transfer from the hotel, head into the forest with your guide to learn about the spruce trees and how resin is carefully collected.

As your homemade resin cream is prepared over the campfire, relax in the tranquillity of the forest and enjoy a selection of delicious campfire snacks. You’ll then receive your own jar of freshly made resin cream to take home as a unique souvenir of your Finnish adventure.

The experience includes return transfers, campfire snacks and your own jar of handmade resin cream.

The Gentle Art of Finnish Smoke - A Culinary Masterclass, 3-4hrs | €159 pp

Step into a private home in Kuhmo and experience an authentic taste of Finnish life in the heart of the Wild Taiga. During this hands-on culinary experience, your local hosts will introduce you to the traditional art of smoke-cooking and the Finnish philosophy of slow food, sharing stories and techniques passed down through generations.

Get involved in preparing a delicious three-course meal, combining time-honoured wilderness traditions with the flavours and lifestyle of modern-day Finland. As you cook and dine together, discover the stories of the surrounding forest and enjoy the rare tranquillity of the Wild Taiga.

More than simply a meal, this is an opportunity to connect with local people, experience Finnish traditions and enjoy genuine hospitality in a private home, just a short walk from your hotel.

On the Water

Paddling in Search of the Wild Forest Reindeer, 6-7hrs | €169 pp

Discover the legendary Lake Lentua, a vast wilderness lake surrounded by forested islands, sandy shores and ancient woodland. Accompanied by a local guide, set out by canoe and paddle between the islands, with the route adapted to the weather conditions and wildlife activity of the day.

During the summer months, Lake Lentua is home to wild forest reindeer, and with a little luck, you may spot these magnificent animals along the shoreline or even swimming between the islands. Along the way, we’ll stop at a lakeside campfire site to enjoy a light lunch and freshly brewed coffee prepared over an open fire.

There will also be time to relax and take a refreshing swim from one of the lake’s beautiful sandy beaches. Surrounded by the tranquillity of Kuhmo’s untouched wilderness, this is a wonderful way to spend a summer day immersed in nature.

To the Forests

Hiking & Biking Tour, 3hrs/5hrs | €75/€105 pp

Choose from two different lengh hiking + biking trails. Including a snack break.
3hrs: Lauttavaara trail 12km biking, 3km hike
5hrs: Lentuankoski trail, 29km biking, 5k hike

Hiddenportti National Park, 6-7hrs | €169 pp

Step into the fascinating world of Finnish mythology on a guided excursion to Hiidenportti National Park, whose name translates as “Goblin’s Gate”. Surrounded by ancient forests and dramatic landscapes, the park is steeped in intriguing myths and stories that your local guide will bring to life along the way.

The excursion includes an approximately 5km hike to the spectacular Hiidenportti Gorge, following peaceful forest trails and taking in the rugged beauty of the Finnish wilderness. Halfway through the hike, stop at a traditional campfire to prepare and enjoy coffee, tea and light snacks in the heart of nature.

The experience lasts approximately 6–7 hours and includes return transfers and campfire snacks. For those who would like something more substantial, a hearty soup lunch can be added for €15 per person.

Lake Syväjärvi: Hiking, Fishing & Relaxation, 5-6hrs, | €159 pp

Spend a peaceful day immersed in the beautiful Finnish wilderness at the Syväjärvi recreational and fishing area, where hiking, fishing and relaxation come together in one memorable experience.

Set out on an easy-to-moderate 5km trail winding around the tranquil shores of Lake Syväjärvi, taking in the surrounding forests and peaceful lakeside scenery. Along the way, enjoy a hearty soup lunch prepared over an open fire, with the sounds of nature providing the perfect backdrop.

For those who would like to try their hand at fishing, there will be an opportunity to cast a line in the lake, where you may even be lucky enough to catch a rainbow trout. A fishing permit is required and can be purchased locally.

The adventure continues with a visit to nearby Roukonpuro shore, a secluded wilderness beach that feels like a hidden treasure. Take some time to relax by the water or enjoy a refreshing swim before returning.

Combining gentle activity, authentic wilderness experiences and plenty of time to unwind, this day trip is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of the Finnish countryside.