The Slow Adventure of North Karelia

7 days 6 nights
Finland
Photo Kirsi P.
Kirsi P.
Tour Provider
View Kirsi’s tours
Difficulty
Moderate
Comfort
Midscale
Upscale
Group size
2-20 tourists,
over 10 y.o.

This week in North Karelia is built around nature, movement, and unhurried days outdoors. The program combines guided hikes, time on the water, and moments of rest, giving you a chance to experience the region at a natural pace. Forests, lakes, gorges, and national parks shape each day, while evenings are reserved for warmth, food, and quiet time at the hotel.

During the week, you explore some of the area’s most impressive landscapes. A guided hike takes you through the dramatic Kolvananuuro gorge, where steep rock walls, old trees, and flowing water create a striking contrast to the surrounding forest. In Koli National Park, you walk along scenic viewpoints and learn about the region’s history and culture. A boat trip on Lake Höytiäinen brings you to a peaceful island for a meal in nature, while a canoeing day on the calm Pielisjoki River offers a relaxed way to move through the landscape. One day is left open for self-guided walks along local trails, giving you freedom to explore at your own pace.

Throughout the trip, you stay at Hotel Kontio in Kontiolahti, a comfortable base with easy access to nature. After active days, you can unwind in the sauna, prepare your own meals, or enjoy the quiet surroundings. Transfers, guiding, and key activities are arranged in advance, allowing you to focus fully on the experience. Join this journey to discover North Karelia through walking, water, and wide open space — and return home with a deep sense of calm and connection to nature!

from
$1,838
per tourist for 7 days
This tour is booked individually on request
Any dates between 1 Jun and 30 Sep are available. Сlick to book or contact tour provider.
Number of individuals
2-20 tourists, over 10 y.o.
Only in the Hiking Trekking Club
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Photo Kirsi P.
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

finland field
Land Shaped by Time
Walk through gorges, hills, and forests formed over millions of years
house
Evenings Done Right
Traditional Finnish sauna, calm air, and simple food after full days outdoors
canoyeing
From Trail to Water
Hiking, boating, and canoeing — every day offers a new way to move

Route details

Day 1
Arrival

You arrive in Kontiolahti and settle in at the Kontio Hiking Hotel. The first day is easy and calm, giving you time to get used to the surroundings. You can explore the nearby area, enjoy the quiet forest atmosphere, and relax after the journey. In the evening, a sauna is waiting for you — the perfect way to start your stay.

Piilo finland
Piilo finland 3 more photos
Day 2
Hiking Through the Kolvananuuro Gorge
Day 3
Koli National Park Highlights
Day 4
Island Visit on Lake Höytiäinen
Day 5
Canoeing on the Pielisjoki River
Day 6
Time to Explore at Your Own Pace
Day 7
Farewell Morning
Difficulty
Moderate
Does not require physical training but involves moderate physical activity

Accommodation

Comfort
Midscale
Upscale
Hotel
6 nights

Accommodation in a double room, including linen and use of the sauna and courtyard hut.

6 nights
Hotel Kontio

Hotel Kontio offers a comfortable and welcoming place to rest after active days outdoors. The rooms are modern yet cozy, designed to make you feel at home while surrounded by nature. Thanks to its location near the main road, the hotel is easy to reach, and the services of Kontiolahti are close by whenever you need them.

In the evening, you can unwind in the hotel’s sauna, letting the heat relax your muscles after a day outside. Afterwards, step out onto the spacious terrace to cool down and enjoy the quiet surroundings. Accommodation is in a double room with a small kitchen, giving you the freedom to prepare your own meals. Guests are also welcome to use the outdoor hut in the yard — a perfect spot to sit, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere at the end of the day.

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 in double-room, including linen and use of the sauna and courtyard hut;
  • Kolvanauuro hiking, Koli hiking, boat trip to Höytiäinen, guided canoeing trip on the Pielisjoki River.
Extras
  • travel insurance;
  • flights;
  • any other personal expenses.
  • breakfast basket;*
  • light evening snack basket;*
  • biking trip;*
  • guided SUP lessons;*
  • transfers.*

*by order

It's important to know

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is highly recommended for overseas travel. A comprehensive plan should include coverage for trip interruption, delay and cancellation, medical expenses, emergency medical transportation, loss and damage to baggage.

Cancellation of booking

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Dates and Prices

  • Any dates on request during the season
    1 Jun – 30 Sep
    Request to book

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