Finland, the land of a thousand lakes, endless forests and Northern Lights, offers a diversity of landscapes that amaze travelers seeking nature and authenticity.
From Lapland to the serene archipelagos of the Baltic, every corner of this Nordic country is an invitation to discovery. At Grand Angle, we believe that the best way to immerse yourself in this beauty is to experience it. Let’s embark together on a discovery of some of Finland’s most beautiful panoramas.
The 10 most beautiful landscapes of Finland
- Finnish Lapland
- Koli National Park
- The Lake Region
- Åland Archipelago
- Oulanka National Park
- Pyhä-Luosto National Park
- Nuuksio National Park
- The historic charm of Porvoo
- Utö Island
- Kilpisjärvi and Finland’s highest peaks
Finnish Lapland
Lapland is a region that instantly evokes images of snowy landscapes, reindeer and, of course, Santa Claus in Rovaniemi. But it’s primarily the domain of Northern Lights, which paint the night sky in unreal colors during the long winter nights. Parks like Riisitunturi, with its “tykky” trees sculpted by snow and frost, or Pallas-Yllästunturi, offering stunning views from its peaks, are privileged places. Tea Karvinen describes the striking beauty of the snow-covered trees of Riisitunturi, known to photographers worldwide. In Lapland, activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing hikes or dog sledding safaris allow for total immersion in this white paradise.
Koli National Park
Considered Finland’s most emblematic national landscape, Koli offers spectacular views over Lake Pielisjärvi from its heights, notably from the Ukko-Koli peak. Tea Karvinen immortalized the Mäkrävaara hill there, recalling Eero Järnefelt’s painting. Dense forests and rolling hills transform with the seasons, offering a particularly striking panorama in autumn with its flaming colors. It’s a place rich in history and inspiration for many Finnish artists.
The Lake Region
With nearly 188 000 lakes, Finland lives up to its nickname of “land of a thousand lakes”. The region of the Great Lakes, or Lakeland, is a vast network of sparkling waters, verdant islands and deep forests. The Lake Saimaa, the country’s largest, is a unique ecosystem, home to the Saimaa ringed seal, a rare species. It’s a paradise for canoeing, kayaking, fishing and stays in a “mökki” (Finnish cottage) by the water. The Repovesi National Park, with its cliffs like Olhava favored by climbers, also offers magnificent views of these lakeside landscapes.
Åland Archipelago
Located between Finland and Sweden, the Åland archipelago is a world apart with its few 6 700 islands and islets. It is an ideal place for cycling, sailing and discovering charming villages. Tea Karvinen captured a maritime landscape from a ferry there, with windmills standing out against the sky. The sweetness of life and unique marine landscapes make it a choice destination for a summer getaway.
Oulanka National Park
Famous for its hiking trail Karhunkierros (the Bear Circuit), Oulanka National Park is renowned for its impressive rapids and waterfalls, such as Kiutaköngäs and Myllykoski. Tea Karvinen photographed the Myllykoski rapids in winter, fascinated by “the brilliant white beauty of ice and snow”. The untouched boreal forests and winding rivers offer exceptional adventure terrain for hikers.
Pyhä-Luosto National Park
In Lapland, Pyhä-Luosto National Park is formed by a chain of tunturis (rounded mountains) billions of years old. Tea Karvinen chose a photo of this park as her first choice, capturing a December afternoon where the last rays of sunlight tinted the sky pink above the Luosto summit, with a dreamy mist in the valley. It is a perfect place for hiking and discovering the unique geology of the region, including an amethyst mine.
Nuuksio National Park
A short distance from the capital, Helsinki, Nuuksio National Park is a true oasis of wild nature. Its lush forests, peaceful lakes and rocky cliffs offer total escape. It is the ideal place for day hikes, berry and mushroom picking in season, or simply to escape the urban bustle.
The Historical Charm of Porvoo
Finland’s second-oldest city, Porvoo attracts with its iconic red wooden houses along the Porvoonjoki river and its history-filled paved streets. Although it is an urban landscape, its harmonious integration with the surrounding nature and its unique character make it a must-visit. The old town is a pleasure to explore on foot, offering craft shops and cosy cafés.
Utö Island
Finland’s southernmost inhabited island, Utö, offers a glimpse of past and present island life. With its small community and iconic lighthouse, Utö is a prized destination for its isolation, migrating bird watching and harsh winters.
Kilpisjärvi and Finland’s Highest Peaks
Far in the north-west of Lapland, near the point where the borders of Finland, Sweden and Norway meet, lies Kilpisjärvi. The region is dominated by the imposing Saana mountain and is home to Halti, Finland’s highest point at 1 324 metres. Tea Karvinen had the privilege of photographing the blue iridescence of Lake Kilpisjärvi from a helicopter. It is a region of Arctic tundra and grandiose landscapes.
Ready to explore these wonders with Grand Angle?
Finland is a land of adventure and contemplation, where each landscape tells a story. At Grand Angle, we are passionate about discovering these natural treasures and have designed stays to allow you to experience them intensely. Whether you dream of gliding on cross-country ski trails in Lapland, hiking in snowshoes under the polar night, or immersing yourself in Arctic activities, we have a Finnish experience for you:
- Cross-country skiing in Finnish Lapland - Kiilopää
- Arctic activities discovery stay
- Finnish Lapland: Levi
- Finnish Lapland: Äkäslompolo, stay at Hotel Seita
- Cross-country skiing in Hossa National Park
- Felltrek, Finnish Lapland
- Felltrek, wild Lapland
- Finnish Lapland: Saariselkä
- Snowshoe hiking in Finland: polar night and white paradise
Feel free to explore our Finland trips to find the adventure that suits you and prepare yourself to be dazzled by the raw beauty of Finnish landscapes.
Article written by
Solène Roux
Editorial lead
Passionate about travel and a keen advocate of slow travel, I am fortunate to turn my love of adventure into engaging stories. As editorial lead at GrandAngle.Travel, an agency specialising in trekking and cycling…
