Karelia reveals itself slowly — through quiet lakes, forest paths, and long evenings by the water. This journey takes you to the heart of eastern Finland, where days are shaped by nature, movement, and simple pleasures. From the first evening sauna to the last walk through a wooden village, the rhythm of the trip invites you to slow down and truly be present.
Over the week, you explore Karelia in many ways. You paddle the calm waters of the Bear River, hike through the wild landscapes of Tiilikka National Park, and walk forest trails that lead to open views and quiet beaches. A boat trip across Lake Pielinen shows the old town from the water, while evenings bring wood-heated saunas, open-fire meals, and the warm atmosphere of Laitalan Lomat. You cycle through the Karelian village of Nurmes, visit local museums, and taste regional food prepared in traditional ways. If nature allows, the first northern lights of autumn may even appear.
Your base for the week is a cozy guesthouse surrounded by forest and lakes. All activities, meals, and local transfers are arranged, allowing you to focus on the experience itself. Days are active but unhurried, guided by people who know the area well. Join this journey to experience Karelia through water, forest, fire, and tradition — and leave with memories that stay long after the road home!
Difficulty
Moderate
Comfort
Basic+
Midscale
Group size
4-10 tourists,
over 10 y.o.
over 10 y.o.
Only in the Hiking Trekking Club
- Local prices – no extra feesBook tours directly from local tour providers
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Kirsi P. is the provider of this trip
The provider speaks: English, Finnish
I am an entrepreneur working at the company which organizes vacation activities in Finland.
Tour highlights
Wild National Parks
Hike through Tiilikka’s forests and sandy shores at an easy, relaxed pace
Real Finnish Sauna
Wood-heated lakeside sauna with sunset views and cool lake swims
River to Lake Adventure
Canoe the Bear River and cruise Lake Pielinen, seeing Karelia from the water
Route details
Day 1
Arrival
Arrival at Laitalan Lomat guesthouse and check-in. The evening begins with a welcome dinner, followed by time to relax in the sauna. A calm start to the week and a chance to settle into the surroundings.
Day 2
Canoeing on the Bear River
Day 3
Hiking in Tiilikka National Park
Day 4
Lake Pielinen & Sauna Experience
Day 5
Explore Local Life and Nature
Day 6
Visit Karelian Village and Old Town
Day 7
Departure
Difficulty
Moderate
Does not require physical training but involves moderate physical activity
Tour provider's comments
Most trails can be easily walked in sports shoes or walking shoes during dry weather, though hiking boots be useful, as terrain can vary considerably even over short distances
Accommodation
Comfort
Basic+
Midscale
Guest House
6 nights
6 nights
Guesthouse
Single room: +40€/day/person
An extra day at guesthouse 80€/person. Including accommodation and breakfast.
Extra day in Helsinki from 110€/person/day/ double room/ Helsinki centre Hotel
Weather during the tour
Weather conditions along the route
You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on
- the forecasts for this season
- the statistics from previous years’ trips
Conditions
Included
- accommodation at the guesthouse;
- full board+ program + on-site transportation;
- transfer from/to the Nurmes railway station;
- transfer from/to Kuopio Airport.
Extras
- travel insurance;
- flights;
- single room: +40€/day/person;
- an extra day at guesthouse 80€/person (including accommodation and breakfast);
- extra day in Helsinki from 110€/person/day/ double room/ Helsinki centre Hotel.
It's important to know
Personal equipment you need for the tour
- walking shoes/hiking boots;
- weatherproof clothing.
Please note
Travel insurance
Cancellation of booking
Reviews
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Dates and Prices
- Any dates on request during the season1 Jun – 30 Sep
