An Unusual Yet Enchanting Adventure Through Southern Finland
Lakes, Forests, Castles, and Welcoming Locals
Southern Finland, a unique and often overlooked destination, is a hidden gem in Eastern Scandinavia. With its breathtaking Nordic landscapes and the warmth of local hospitality—reminiscent of the Greek tradition of welcoming guests—this region is full of delightful surprises for any traveler.
Arrival in Helsinki
After a short three-hour flight, we landed at Helsinki Airport. Just outside the capital, Vantaa is an incredibly well-organized airport, offering seamless access to trains and buses for both local and intercity routes. Waiting for us were representatives from the car rental company, ready to hand over our SUV—a crucial choice for navigating Finland’s snow-covered and icy roads.
First Stop: Mikkeli
Our journey began in Mikkeli, a small town 200 kilometers northeast of Helsinki. Here, we visited a World War II museum, showcasing authentic weaponry and vivid battlefield depictions. Southern Finland is a land of lakes and forests, where many cities are only connected by ferry once the ice melts. The drive was smooth, with clear roads, but nature remained in winter’s grip, painting the landscape in shades of gray and stillness.
After a night in Mikkeli and a final museum visit the next morning, we set off for our second destination.
Pieksämäki: Frozen Lakes and Finnish Traditions
In Pieksämäki, we were fortunate to embark on an excursion across two frozen lakes and sample traditional Finnish salmon dishes. Walking on the ice was surreal—especially for someone from Greece, where snow is rare. Afterward, we indulged in a traditional Finnish sauna, the perfect way to unwind after enduring the bitter cold.
The highlight of the day? Salmon soup at dinner—rich, comforting, and exactly what we needed after an action-packed adventure.
Savonlinna: Castles and Local Delicacies
Our next stop, Savonlinna, is a city built on a cluster of islands within a picturesque lake. The main attraction is its 17th-century castle, an architectural marvel with a fascinating history. After touring the castle, we sampled local delicacies, including reindeer meat. The harsh Finnish climate makes light meals impractical, so traditional cuisine leans towards hearty meats and bold flavors.
Return to Helsinki: Exploring the Capital
For the final leg of our journey, we drove back to Helsinki. One of the most fascinating aspects of the trip was the extended daylight hours—nightfall arrived just before midnight, with daylight returning by 4 a.m.
Upon arriving in Helsinki, we visited the city’s renowned Orthodox Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece unlike any other in Europe. Later, we grabbed a quick bite at the harbor, explored the bustling market, and picked up souvenirs before preparing for a well-deserved night out.
This is a free translation of an article originally written by Panagiotis Papadimas.
