Relatively little-known outside Finland, but just under four hours northeast of Helsinki by train, Punkaharju is a tranquil land of birch and spruce trees, pristine waters and clear, crisp air. Located in eastern Finland, within the Saimaa region and part of the vast Finnish Lakelands area, it’s one of the country’s designated National Landscapes — an accolade reflecting its wild beauty and the important role forest culture plays in the Finnish psyche.
A haven for wildlife and outdoors lovers, Punkaharju is where Finns come to retreat and recharge. It’s easy to see why the area has long been a magnet for artists, writers and poets — rumour has it, it even inspired JRR Tolkien’s Middle-earth fantasies. The labyrinthine waterways of Lake Saimaa, Finland’s largest with just over 9,300 miles of coastline, dominates the landscape. On long, light-filled summer days, visitors come to swim, hike, paddle, cruise and cycle — but, given its size, you’ll often not encounter another soul.
Delve deeper and discover contemporary art galleries and gastronomic delights inspired by foraged forest foods. Go slow and explore Punkaharju’s forests by
