visit finland autumn foliage

Autumn in Finland: an alternative fall foliage tour

Aug 27, 2020 • 5 min read

Kilpisjärvi is spectacular in the autumn © Vilhelm Nyström / EyeEm / Getty

Warm, lemon-yellow sunshine on a cornflower blue lake; the sound of leaves falling in the forest like soft rain; carpets of crimson berries crunching underfoot – nowhere does autumn come in such a burst of sensory glory as in Finland .

Locals even have a special name for the fleeting season, ruska , and for a few short weeks in September and early October ruska pilgrims head out to catch summer’s final flourish before the winter darkness descends.

Editor's note: Always check local restrictions before planning a trip and follow government health advice.

Since Finland is full of wilderness – 74 percent of the country is covered in boreal forest – you can experience ruska almost anywhere, but the further north you go the more intense the colours, as broadleaf trees, conifers, berry bushes and moss cloak the landscape in a multi-layered tapestry of green, auburn, gold, copper, crimson and smoky blue.

Fall in the Arctic Circle

Enontekiö , in the furthest northwestern reaches of Lapland , just 50km from the Arctic Sea, is on the autumnal frontline. As the leaves begin to turn in early September, Kilpisjärvi, the region’s largest Saami village, appears cradled in a stunning golden triangle of mountain birch trees between the borders of Norway and Sweden .

The great Saana Fell (1029m) rises out of the village cloaked in an ankle-deep mat of richly coloured lingonberries, bilberries, crowberries and bear berries – remnants of wedding garments, locals believe, worn to the ill-fated marriage of the giant Saana to the nearby Malla Fell.

These great fells stand watch over Malla Strict Nature Reserve  – Finland’s oldest conservation area  established in 1916. Considered Tosilappi  ( True Lapland ) Enontekiö’s parks encompass a rare range of Arctic and alpine flora and fauna, specially adapted to the high altitude of the fells and the unique, marine influenced microclimate.

Finns flock here in their droves during ruska for three brief weeks of glorious, mosquito-free hiking, biking and canoeing amid the paprika dusted mountains. Ruska autumn markets also pepper the villages and husky farms like Hetta Huskies  start their autumn training, running dogs through the golden landscape with quad bikes.

The trails in Malla Strict and the Käsivarsi Wilderness Area  are probably some of the best in the world, and almost all of them have some sort of wilderness cabin provision. The most popular trails are the easy 4km hike up Saana Fell; the 55km section of the Halti trail between Kilpisjärvi and Finland’s highest fell,  Halti (1328m); and the stunning track through Malla Strict’s berry moors to the Three Nations Border Stone where the borders of Finland, Sweden and Norway meet.

The border stone sits on a man-made island in Lake Koltapahtajärvi and can be reached by the Malla boat from Kilpisjärvi or via the 11km Crimson Trail through Malla Strict. For information and reservations head to the Visitor Centre .

Koli: Finland’s most famous autumn landscape

As the season starts to fade in Lapland the fall colours travel south like a colourful wave. By the third week in September, the rolling hillsides of Koli National Park are daubed in orange, red and yellow. Climb to the top of Ukko-koli (354m) and you’ll have exactly the same view that artist Eero Järnefelt had in 1899 when he painted his iconic Autumn Landscape of Lake Pielisjärvi .

The Koli peaks are the southernmost summits in Finland and are swathed in tall, candle-like spruce trees, pines, birch and aspen. They are extraordinarily tall as the forest hasn’t been cut for a century. Traditional farming methods maintain the historic views: swidden fields are cleared every year, meadows are mown by hand and traditional Finncattle and Finnsheep graze the parks pastures.

The easiest way to immerse yourself in the herb-rich forest is to take the Paimenenpolku Trail (Shepherd’s Trail) from the Nature Centre Ukko or book in to one of the heritage farms such as Kolin Keidas in Mattila.

Artistic autumn landscapes at Lake Tuusula

Although Eero Järnefelt painted endless scenes of Koli it was his brother-in-law, the composer Jean Sibelius, who captured the mythic spirit of Finland’s forests in his radical symphonies. Inspired by Koli and the dark tales of the Kalevala , the Finnish national epic poem, Sibelius wrote most of his major works from his beautiful lakeside villa, Ainola , on the shores of Lake Tuusula, barely 40km north of Helsinki.

You can visit the house with its glazed Scandinavian stoves and Steinway grand piano and walk down to the glittering lake in search of migrating cranes, swans and taiga geese, just as Sibelius did. A cultural trail around the shore takes you via the frozen-in-time homes of fellow artists and musicians, including Juhani Aho and Venny Soldan-Brofeldt, Pekka Halonen and Joonas Kokkonen.

The latter lived in a beautiful contemporary home designed by Alvar Aalto. By prior arrangement you can visit Villa Kokkonen for lunch and a private concert by pianist Elina Viitaila and opera singer Antti Pesonen, who continue to fill the house with music.

Autumn’s last gasp in Nuuksio National Park

As snow begins to fall in Lapland, October offers the urbanites of Helsinki one last burst colour in nearby Nuuksio National Park. The park is even accessible by public transport. Take the commuter train to Espoo, then bus number 85 to the Haltia Nature Centre where you can plot your hiking routes and connect with guides and activity experts such as Feel the Nature , who also offer a pick up from Helsinki.

With the summer season over, Nuuksio’s forest is cool and quiet. The aspen are starting to lose their golden leaves and the forest floor is covered in a carpet of Scots pine needles. Foragers hunt for the last bilberries, cranberries and chanterelle mushrooms, which they carefully ferry back to snug log cabins at Hawkhill Nature  to cook over an open fire with some stove-smoked salmon.

Back in Helsinki, the Sibelius Academy is starting their autumn season of concerts, but here in the forest you’ll already be humming autumn’s shimmering notes along with the woodlarks.

Paula travelled to Finland with the support of Finnair , Visit Finland and Visit Espoo . Lonely Planet contributors don’t accept freebies for positive coverage.

You might also like:

How to make Finnish baked juustoleipä with cloudberries Top 8 destinations for fall colors in the US The ultimate New England fall foliage road trip

This article was first published Aug 28, 2019 and updated Aug 27, 2020.

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Seize the Colours: Autumn Foliage Live Map with help of AI

Credits: Emilia Hoisko

Press release, Helsinki, 23 August 2022

As leaf peeping travel grows in popularity around the world, Visit Finland’s new autumn foliage live map lets travellers know what the up-to-date situation is regarding leaf peeping opportunities.

Nature in Finland bursts into autumn splendor, creating a magical scenery. This phenomenon is known as the autumn foliage, or ´ruska´ in Finnish. The word origins from the Inari Sámi word ´ruške´ and North Sámi word ´ruški´. It also resembles ´ruskea´ which means brown in Finnish. However, brown is just one colour in the ruska palette – during September and October Finland turns into a sea of yellow, red, and orange. Ruska moves from the north to the south with a speed of 500 kilometers in just a couple of weeks.

“The ruska situation is forecast with the help of AI (artificial intelligence) and the results are displayed in an easy-to-use map view. With a help of our Autumn Foliage Live Map you may find out when and where to travel in Finland to see the colour galore in its full glory,” says Heli Jimenez, Senior Director, International Marketing and PR at Business Finland.

Available through the popular visitfinland.com -site, the live map has been developed together with tech and marketing partners.

“The service utilises data from sources including road cameras all over Finland in order to chart the progress of ruska during the autumn season. AI processes and refines the information, and with the help of weather reports creates a real-time visual guide to the stages of fall from Hanko in the south to Enontekiö in the north,” explains Jimenez.  

Magical time of the year

“Ruska” is the Finnish word for the turning of the leaves, the time in fall when deciduous trees and shrubs prepare for winter by transforming their leaf colours into brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. In addition to tree foliage, don't miss the foliage on the ground, especially in Lapland. 

The magical time of year draws autumn travellers from around the world to Finland, Europe’s most forested country (more than 70 percent of Finland’s land area is covered by forest) to enjoy the spectacular visual symphony that’s best experienced by hiking, walking, camping and spending time in nature.  

Additional information

Explore the colour galore with  Autumn Foliage Live .

Media contacts

Visit our  contacts page .

About Visit Finland

Visit Finland, a unit of Business Finland, is a national authority on tourism and an active force in promoting international travel to Finland. Its main goal is to develop Finland’s international image as a destination. Visit Finland supports the travel industry through research and helps businesses and groups develop products and services for the international market. For more information, please visit www.visitfinland.com .

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Top viewpoints to embrace autumn foliage.

Autumn Foliage , or so-called 'Ruska' in Finnish, is when leaves start turning into shades of yellow, orange, red, and brown to finally leave the tree and remind us about seizing the moment. Autumn foliage can be seen in Espoo typically from the third week of September and, depending on weather conditions (primarily the wind), may last from 10 days up to 3 weeks . By the end of October, the majority of colorful leaves can already be gone. 

Follow Autumn Foliage in Finland Live

So where to head when the 'Ruska'/Autumn Foliage time is at its best?

Maahisenkierros viewpoint in nuuksio national park.

A lovely 2km long trail that takes you over the perfect viewpoint overlooking the National Park and Lake Pitkäjärvi – a long, slim lake right by the Finnish Nature Centre Haltia . 

Note:  This trail is accessible for wheelchair visitors or families with prams. 

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Vääräjärvi lake and viewpoints in Nuuksio National Park

The second spot worth visiting to admire autumn foliage is Lake Vääräjärvi, located in the Kattila Recreational Area . Here, you get a sense of what the saying ‘ Land of thousands of lakes' really means while walking some of the trails by the lake or even taking a rowing boat to admire the Finnish nature beauty from the lake itself.  

Mössenkärr pond and viewpoint in Espoo Central Park

It may come as a surprise, but did you know that you can find a huge Central Park in Espoo? This 880-hectare huge park in the middle of the city is a favorite destination among locals – even more during wonderful autumn days! One of the spots we would recommend for a perfect autumn foliage photo is Mössekärrin levähdyspaikka viewpoint by the small pond called Mössenkärr. 

Soukan Kasavuori viewpoint by the Baltic Sea coast

It is a hidden gem viewpoint that will present you with the beauty of the Finnish archipelago and the autumn magic. The viewpoint is not always the easiest to find, but it shouldn’t discourage you from chasing it! You can reach the Soukka area well by taking a metro ride to Soukka station, and from there, follow the location instructions to the Soukan Kasavuori viewpoint.

Note: Some fitness skills may be required for the hike towards the Soukan Kasavuori viewpoint – which will be rewarded by a magical seaside view!

Glims River and Espoo Cathedral in Espoo Center

In Espoo, you can find nature behind each corner. Even in the Espoo Center, you will find several nature spots that should have a place on your Autumn Foliage chasing list. In this area, we recommend you stop by the beautiful Espoo Cathedral, Farmstead Museum Glims , or follow one of the nature trails along the Glims River .

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Ruska - the colors of Arctic Autumn

From bittersweet summer sunsets to the thrilling kiss of winter, Lapland autumns are explosions of color in the skies and forests, hiking, biking, berries and glass igloos.

From the moment that the sun kisses the horizon in mid-August, you know that autumn is only a few weeks away. Autumn in Finnish Lapland takes the heat out of the sunlight. As the days grow shorter, fall paints the leaves in gold and crimson and opens the skies for the Northern Lights. So grab a light jacket and a hat and get ready to explore one of Lapland’s best kept secrets: autumn colors.

First sunset of summer

After months of Midnight Sun, it’s almost a relief to watch it dip behind the northernmost horizon for the first time. The last days of summer invite a marked difference in the weather. Without the constant presence of the sun, the temperature begins creeping lower, spreading from the night into evenings. Time to break out that softshell jacket and head out for some early autumn adventures!

Cooler days are great for activities like through the myriad landscapes Lapland offers, like old growth forests, bald felltops and endless wilderness. Autumn also brings with it a bonus: less (or no) mosquitoes! Yes, your constant summer companion buzzes off when the temperatures drop, leaving you to enjoy the evenings and summer nights without creams or sprays.

Late August and September is when berry bushes, hard at work all summer long, bear their fruits proudly. It’s literally a matter of walking into the wilderness and plucking them from the ground . You’ll find bilberries (or Arctic blueberries), cloudberries, lingonberries, raspberries, cranberries … the list goes on. Out of the 50 kinds of berries that grow in Finland, 37 are edible. So make sure you know what you’re popping in your mouth. But once you know what to look for, bon apetit!

When you’re out picking berries, you might notice mushrooms growing alongside them. Some mushrooms, like milk caps, are modest. Others, like pine ceps grow bigger than the basket you brought to carry them in. While there are lots of mushrooms that grow in Lapland, you should always 100% no-doubts know what mushrooms you’re picking! There are poisonous mushrooms that grow right alongside edible mushrooms, and even worse, some bad shrooms ape the appearance of their delicious brothers. A mushroom hunting excursion or course is the best way to learn which mushrooms you can and can’t enjoy.

Cooler weather is great when you’re atop a bike, with a breeze whipping away any sweat you might work up. Fatbikes allow you to traverse virtually any terrain with ease, while mountain bikes are perfect for trails that snake their way up and down the fells. Of course, you can always hop a bike and cruise around the city—it’s cheaper, funner and more sustainable than grabbing a taxi.

Last but certainly not least, you can’t mention summer nights in Lapland without bringing up the return of the awe-inspiring auroras . The return of dark nights means the sky is once again dark enough to witness the glory of the Northern Lights. Sometimes the first aurora sightings are as early as mid-August! Happy hunting.

Ready to head out and enjoy the first days of autumn? Here are some adventures you might enjoy.

• Watch the sun set in the EU’s northernmost village
• Hike the stony hills in our national parks
• Pluck a cloudberry or two in the bogs of southern Lapland
• Crest the ridges of a cityside fell
• Be the first to see the Northern Lights’ triumphant return to the Arctic skies

Autumn Colors (aka Ruska)

Speak to a Finn about autumn, and you’re bound to hear the word “ruska” thrown around. Ruska refers to the season when the foliage changes color before blanketing the ground. Ruska is a favorite time for Finns to migrate north from all over the country, to breathe the purest air in the world, to find their own space and hear their own thoughts again. With the most wilderness in Finland, there’s nowhere quite like Lapland when the leaves start to turn.

Ruska begins in early September when the days are almost equal parts day and night. Birches become golden sunbursts, and aspens blush like young lovers. Ruska only lasts a few weeks, and during this time, the temperature continues its descent, meaning jackets and long pants are more common than not. You might even need gloves if you wander out to see the fall foliage in the morning or evening.

Lapland during fall is a photographer’s dream. The return of sunrise and sunset married with the explosions of color on the trees (and in the night sky) makes it hard to know what to photograph. Everything is gorgeous, urgent and stunning.

First Kiss of Winter

Not long after the leaves say their good-byes and take their one-way flights to the ground, the sky sends down the first snowflakes of the season. Depending on where you are, this might mean you need a knitted cap and gloves in late September. Temperatures often drop below zero at night, which means your mornings are spent marveling at the ice flowers on the windows.

For many, this is the starkest period of the year in the north. Snow hasn’t yet blanketed the earth, and the trees stand naked. Others find beauty and comfort in the gnarled branches grasping at starry skies. The lakes and rivers of Scandinavia haven’t yet frozen over, which offers the best chance at capturing stunning reflected Northern Lights—indeed, this is about the only time of year this is possible.

Looking for something a little warmer? Check out the best reasons to visit Lapland in the summer .

Looking for something a little cooler? Check out the Lapland winter bucket list .

Related posts

Arctic wildlife - the animals of lapland, hear the sounds of lapland – your scapes bucket list, brick by frozen brick - lapland's snowcastles & ice buildings, the magical colors of polar night, dark side of the auroras – legends & myths, visit unique nature destinations - lapland's national parks, do the social.

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Autumn in Finland: Top 10 Things to do, Expect, and Visit!

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Most tourists fly to Finland during winter and summer , but nobody can discount how beautiful the Land of a Thousand Lakes is when the warm season is slowly drifting away. Get ready to enjoy the yellow, red, and brown colors of autumn in Finland , with a few helpful tips on what to see and do during this period.

After living in Finland for over a decade and witnessing numerous season changes, autumn in Finland has to be one of my favorite transitions! Besides its giving beauty as the days pass and nature slowly changes its color from summer green to the perfect shades of yellow and orange, nothing beats walking the same esplanade every day as the cooler wind brush through your cheeks.

Of course, this also means we are welcoming the fact that summer in Finland is officially over and we have to brace ourselves for another season of cold and snow-covered roofs.

So, what to do during autumn in Finland ? I’ve compiled some of the fantastic things you can expect prior to your visit to the handful of things you must not miss!

Follow me on Instagram , where you’ll see more personal tips about living in Finland from a local resident chef and content creator 🍃🍃🍃

📚 Do you want to learn the Finnish language for FREE ? Check out Spark Your Finnish course! 🇫🇮 How about diving into Finland’s culture? Here’s another FREE culture class to learn how to connect with Finns ❗️ Be insured before your trip to Finland and  get a SafetyWing FREE insurance quote 📚 Read our post about  why you should always have insurance ✈️ Find out how to  find cheap flights to Finland using Skyscanner  or  find deals now

Table of Contents

When to visit and what to expect

Period and temperature.

Autumn in Finland is the second most favorite season of locals because of the breathtaking leaf colors or “Ruska” and the desirable daytime temperatures. 

Usually, autumn in Finland starts in late September to early October , depending on location, and ends around November just before snow starts to fall. The temperature ranges between 2 and 15 degrees celsius (35°F-59°F) , so tourists can skip bringing their thick parkas and travel light during their trip.

Season of leaf-peeping

As the bright, sunny days bid goodbye, it leaves a jaw-dropping autumn leaf color all around Finland’s forests and wilderness. It’s a time of peace and serenity, perfect for local and foreign travelers to roam around in its picturesque surroundings and go on a private foliage tour.

The changing of the leaf colors is a natural phenomenon, and it’s hard to miss when traveling in the northern part of Finland during autumn. The Finnish Lapland is one of the most prime destinations for leaf-peeping, inviting enthusiasts around the world to flock into the northern landscapes and marvel at its beauty.

Berry and mushroom sprout

When going on a hike, it’s normal to see berries and mushrooms sprouting everywhere. Finland’s forests are abundant with edible mushrooms like chanterelles and brown porcini, as well as nourishing and power-boosting berries like blueberries, lingonberries, and bear berries.

A lot of people going on a hike can pick as much as they want because there are more than enough superfoods for everyone. In fact, it’s everyone’s right to be able to pick almost anything their hearts desire in Finland’s forests .

The aurora starts to appear

Just before winter kicks in, the aurora starts to show up during autumn.

While most people believe that the northern lights shine the brightest when it’s dark and cold during winter, autumn is probably the best season to watch it dance above the sky. The planet’s orientation towards the sun maximizes the chances of solar flares interacting with the Earth’s magnetic field, therefore creating the most spectacular natural phenomenon.

How to dress and what to bring

Depending on where you are from, your tolerance to cold can depend on that! I’m from the Philippines so when I first came here during autumn, I was shocked at how cold it was. I think the temperature then was something like 15°C (59°F).

So, I suggest bringing some extra layers !

Light warm jacket

I’ve compiled some of the best light jackets for the ladies in this post and I personally have an autumn/spring jacket that is light but warm! I also have a windproof hardshell jacket which I use for rainy days or when I go for a short hike or walk. It is not warm on its own but if it gets chilly I add a light-down jacket (which folds into a tiny cube) or warm fleece.

If you’re visiting around the autumn season then it is best to think smart about what to bring because the weather can be unstable. There can be days when it is summer hot, wet and rainy, or sunny but cold! So, layering is indeed your best friend.

My tip is to bring a windproof and waterproof light jacket which you can layer under!

Light down jacket or fleece (or both!)

I personally use both of my down and fleece jackets on a daily. I layer them under my windproof and waterproof hardshell light jacket. Depending on what is the temperature outside, I could alternate or use both at the same time. They keep me warm if the weather is on the cold side and I could easily remove layers when the weather gets warmer.

Here’s my post about the top fleece jackets on the market right now.

Warm hat (beanie)

Always keep the head warm! Autumn is anyways beanie weather so bring your cute and warm hats with you.

It is always a good idea to bring a warm light scarf with you to keep the neck warm especially if you plan to visit the forest. You can always use it as an extra warm layer!

Warm gloves

It can get chilly in the evenings and if you plan to stroll for long period, it is always a good idea to bring gloves with you to protect your hands from the cold wind.

Warm socks/woolen socks

I personally am a sucker for warm socks . I always have woolen socks on whenever the season gets colder in Finland and it helps to keep my always cold feet warm!

Rainboots or waterproof shoes/boots

Since it is normally rainy around autumn in Finland and it is very important to keep our feet snug, warm, and dry cos who wants to roam around with wet feet?

I have both rain boots, waterproof boots, and my hiking shoes which are also water-resistant. I, however, mainly use my boots for daily use like if I’m heading to town or going to work. I almost never use my rain boots and when heading to the forest, I always use my hiking boots mainly because they have a better grip which is ideal when hiking or walking in a wet forest.

Long sleeves/clothes to layer

When visiting Finland in autumn, it is best to bring some extra warm but light clothing to layer. As I mentioned above, the weather can get really unstable from one day to another so it’s best to dress according to that day’s temperature. Plus, when it gets warm, you can always remove layers and when it gets colder, add more!

Yep, it is rainy in Finland during autumn quite a bit so best to bring a small portable umbrella with you! You never know when you’ll need it.

Where to go? Top locations during autumn in Finland!

Riisitunturi national park.

The greatest hiking spots are in Finland’s National Parks , including the Riisitunturi National Park in Posio, Lapland . The national park has perfect trails that are suitable for family visits as well as longer treks for experienced hikers. 

Several bird watchers and leaf peepers find their way to Riisitunturi National Park to experience staying overnight, visit its cafes and restaurants or just marvel at the colorful fell and hill landscapes. While it’s a tourist-favorite spot during winter, it also promises breathtaking views of surrounding parks and l akes during autumn.

Töölönlahti Bay

Helsinki is not without its scenic parks, too. Those who happen to be in the city can go to Töölönlahti Bay to see the foliage that boasts of maple trees and birds singing everywhere. It’s a true oasis in Helsinki city center, delighting every local and tourist alike with the capital’s best attractions and crisp, fresh air during the fall season.

It’s best visited during summer when there are so many activities to do, but the spectacle continues on to autumn when the bay reflects the trees’ rustic-colored leaves.

Keskuspuisto (Helsinki’s Central Park)

Of course, Helsinki’s Central Park should be part of the list. City-goers should definitely experience autumn in Finland right at the capital’s central Park itself: Keskuspuisto. 

Travelers can stroll along with its 10-kilometer-long forested space, from Laakso to its northern border in Haltiala. Most locals visit Central Park for outdoor activities like horseback riding and picnic, but merely sitting still on its benches could make time fly without realizing it. 

Nuuksio National Park

A perfect day trip and day hike from Helsinki ! Nuuksio national park is about an hour bus ride from Helsinki city center which makes it a popular place amongst tourists and Helsinki locals. It offers easy short to long hikes to your liking! On top of that, during autumn in Finland, you’ll witness some of the grandest views during your walk or hike. It is also the perfect place to take autumn-themed photos.

What to do? Finland autumn checklist!

Berry-picking.

Seventy-seven percent of Finland is covered by forests, making it an essential part of the Finnish lifestyle, culture, and history. Locals and tourists are free to spend their time getting to know the forests and pick wild berries and mushrooms as they please. 

First-timers can seek help from locals on where to find the best superfoods for free, but most people flock to Saana Fell – the second highest fell in the country – to find richly colored bilberries (Mustikka), cloudberries (Lakka), and lingonberries (Puolukka). Others go to the tranquil forests of the Nuksio National Park to taste all kinds of berries and mushrooms, as well as enjoy some cool, fresh air.

Here’s my full list of amazing traditional dishes in Finland you can check out!

Hunt the northern lights

When hunting the aurora borealis, northern Finland is the place to be. There’s a higher chance of seeing the northern lights during autumn and spring , and the temperature outdoors is cozy enough to wait for its arrival.

Travelers should go to Lapland for good northern lights show. They could even visit Santa’s hometown in Rovaniemi to feel the warmth and magic of Christmas even when it’s not December . There are tons of activities to do up north – kids and adults can trek, hike or even go on a husky safari, although they won’t be able to ride a sled.

Some tourists also stay in a cabin to relax and enjoy some quiet time while waiting for the aurora to appear in the night sky.

Since it’s the season of fresh autumn leaves, people take advantage of the great climate to hike or trek. While it’s a tourist-favorite activity all year round, autumn has a special place in the hearts of anyone who have a knack for exploring the wild and getting lost in the woods. 

In eastern Lapland , people gather to follow the trails in the Tuntsa wilderness area that offers great views of Lapland’s open landscapes.

Also, the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park in the northwestern part of Lapland has several falls that attract hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers . The most beautiful scene will be found at the top of Sarkitunturi fell, and it only takes an hour to get there.

Indulge in an authentic Finnish sauna

No one has ever left Finland – no matter what season! – without experiencing its authentic Finnish sauna . The country defined its sauna experience values – authenticity, multiple senses, presence, relaxation, cleanliness, and well-being) to give everyone only the best services.

When it’s about relaxing the mind and body, tourists can enjoy a pampering hot steam in so many ways – inside a cabin, atop a gondola lift in Yllas, inside a floating summer house in Jalo Lautta, and while riding a Ferris wheel at the SkySauna in Helsinki.

RELATED READ: What is Finland Famous For? 30 things Finland is known for!

Go for mushroom picking!

If you’re staying in Finland for a while and get a chance to roam around its forests for hikes then also remember that Finland has an “everyman’s right” policy where you’re free to forage edible forest goodies – mushroom included!

Around autumn in Finland, expect to find trumpet chantarelles, ceps, and yellow chantarelles – these are at least the easiest mushrooms to distinguish!

If you’re not sure how these, or any mushrooms in general, look like then it is best you do not pick anything for safety measures. There are tons of poisonous mushrooms in the Finnish forest so it is best to be wary of what you pick.

Alternatively, you can buy the mushrooms mentioned above from shops or market squares!

Kick start your Finland visit by practicing how to say hello .

Do you need help planning your trip to Finland? Here are my top tips!

• The Best Finland Travel Guide  – My Finland overview, you’ll find everything you’d need to know about Finland.
• When is the best time to visit Finland for northern lights  
• When is the best time to visit Finland – Monthly breakdown
• BEST Places to Visit in Finland  and  Best Cities in Finland  – Cities, and towns you must not miss!
• Things to do in Finland ,  Finland Holidays to Experience ,  Tourist Attractions in Finland  – Touristy stuff, but still worth reading! Finland, in general, offers pretty cool experiences regardless of how “hyped” it is.
• If you’re staying in Helsinki, you can book your  hotel stay in Helsinki  or  near Helsinki airport .
• Cities to visit during a short visit:   Helsinki ,  Porvoo ,  Tampere ,  Turku ,  Ålands , Hanko , and  Vaasa .
• When to visit?  Summer ,  Autumn ,  Spring , and  Winter  – Decide when to come and then base your activities on that!
• How to dress for winter in Finland  – Always dress according to the weather. It will make your experience much better!
• Top tips and important info:   Supermarkets in Finland ,  Budgeting tips for Finland ,  Tipping in Finland ,  What to wear in Sauna ,  Sauna etiquette ,  Public Saunas in Helsinki
• Finnish culture introductions:   How to say hello ,  Finnish food and cuisine ,  Facts about Finland ,  Finnish Breakfast Guide , Finnish drinks

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The best way to enjoy autumn foliage in Finland

1. the colors of finnish autumn, 2. the magic of finnish autumn, 3. places to enjoy autumn in finland, 3.1. southeast coast, 3.2. lapland, 1. what is the best time to visit finland in autumn, 2. where can i see the northern lights in autumn.

Welcome to ForTravelovers, where we take you to discover the most fascinating destinations in the world. On this occasion, we will delve into the magical autumn of Finland, a country that transforms into a true spectacle of colors and charm during this season. If you are looking for information about the colors and magic of autumn in Finland, as well as the best places to enjoy this experience, you have come to the right place!

Autumn in Finland is a time when nature dresses up and shows off an impressive color palette. The forests are dyed in golden, reddish and orange tones, creating a dream landscape. Deciduous trees, such as birches and maples, are the protagonists of this transformation, and their fallen leaves cover the ground, creating a multicolored carpet.

In addition to trees, lakes and rivers are also affected by autumn. The water takes on a darker tone and reflects the colors of the environment, creating a magical atmosphere. Sunrises and sunsets are especially beautiful during this time, with warm hues that paint the sky and are reflected in the water.

Autumn in Finland is not only characterized by its colors, but also by the magic that surrounds the atmosphere. During this season, it is possible to witness one of the most impressive natural phenomena: the northern lights. These dancing light shows in the night sky are a unique and unforgettable experience.

Plus, autumn is harvest time in Finland, and local markets are filled with fresh and delicious produce. It's the perfect time to try wild berries, such as blueberries and raspberries, as well as mushrooms, which are an important part of Finnish cuisine.

If you are looking for the best places to enjoy autumn in Finland, we recommend two unmissable destinations: the southeast coast and Lapland.

The southeast coast of Finland is known for its beautiful archipelagos and picturesque coastal towns. During autumn, these places transform into a paradise of colors. You can walk the trails that line the coast and enjoy the panoramic views, or take a boat ride along the lakes and canals to appreciate the landscape from another perspective.

Additionally, there are several national parks on the southeast coast, such as Nuuksio National Park, where you can go hiking and observe the native fauna and flora. You can also visit the charming towns of Porvoo and Kotka, which retain their historical charm and offer a wide range of cultural offerings.

Lapland, in the north of Finland, is another essential destination to enjoy autumn. Here, nature is even wilder and unspoiled, and the landscapes are simply spectacular. You can explore the national parks of Urho Kekkonen and Pallas-Yllästunturi, where you will find hiking trails that take you through forests, mountains and lakes.

Furthermore, in Lapland you have the opportunity to meet reindeer, one of the symbols of the region. You can visit reindeer farms and learn about the Sami culture, the indigenous people of the area. You can also enjoy activities like reindeer sleigh rides or snowmobiling, and if you're lucky, you might even spot the famous Santa Claus in his village in Rovaniemi.

The best time to visit Finland in autumn is between September and October, when the colors are at their peak and temperatures are pleasant. However, keep in mind that the weather can be variable, so we recommend wearing clothing suitable for the cold and rain.

The northern lights are most visible in the northern regions of Finland, such as Lapland. During autumn, the nights are longer and darker, which increases the chances of witnessing this phenomenon. We recommend getting away from the city lights and looking for places with little light pollution for the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights.

Autumn in Finland is a magical season that you cannot miss. The vibrant colors, the northern lights and the opportunity to enjoy nature at its best make this country a unique destination. Whether touring the southeast coast or exploring the wild beauty of Lapland, we guarantee you will have an unforgettable experience. Don't wait any longer and plan your trip to Finland's magical autumn!

Until next time,

The ForTravelovers team

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What to do in Finland in Autumn? Here is a Wonderful 10-Item Bucket List for You!

Welcome to Finland – a country where you can breathe the cleanest air in the world and where nature is just a few steps away, even in the heart of the capital city, Helsinki. In this article, we present ten autumnal experiences that will give you an unforgettable experience in Finland. These are experiences that the locals themselves enjoy in the fall, so you get to experience what genuine Finnish life is like.

Photos: Jonna Saari

Autumn is the time when nature dresses in its most colorful outfits and the whole country is filled with silence and peace. Come and experience it for yourself!

Tasting Blueberry Pie in a Finnish Café

No matter where you are in Finland, make a stop at a local café. Even if the café is small and modest, there is a very high probability that you will find blueberry pie in its selection, made using Finnish wild forest-picked blueberries. Blueberry pie is a very traditional Finnish delicacy that satisfies even the most demanding gourmand. Paired with a cup of hot coffee, it is the perfect way to start or crown your autumn day in Finland.

National Park Visit to See the Autumn Foliage

Autumn is a great time to experience the vibrant splendors of Finnish nature. Visit one of the country’s magnificent national parks, such as Nuuksio or Repovesi National Park, and admire the colors of the fall foliage. In Finland, trees like aspen, maple, rowan, and birch, as well as ground plants like bilberry, dress in red and yellow. If you visit Helsinki, the nearest national parks are Nuuksio and Sipoonkorpi.

Tip: Bring along a camera, water-resistant shoes, and a warm jacket. If you don’t know where to head for a nature trip, you can ask for tips from local people, the local tourist information, or the Finnish Nature Center Haltia , where you can also call or send an email.

Sauna and Swimming in the Sea or Lake

The Finnish sauna is an experience that should definitely not be missed, even late in the fall. On chilly autumn days, the sauna offers a hot and relaxing moment. Swimming in the cool water after the sauna is a refreshing experience. Follow the example of other sauna-goers and ask for advice if needed.

In the Finnish sauna, everyone is friends and equals. According to Finnish sauna culture, you should not argue or debate in the sauna, but keep the conversation on amicable topics and the voice calm, so that the experience is pleasant for everyone and the sauna elf does not get upset.

Tip: Try sauna and swimming in one of Finland’s many public saunas. Make sure your destination sauna is by the shore, where you can try blowing into the water safely from a pier or sandy beach. You can also rent a cottage with a sauna and its own beach as your accommodation.

Star Gazing from Suomenlinna

Suomenlinna is one of Helsinki’s most famous attractions, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a sea fortress located on several small islands off Helsinki. The fortress was originally built during the Swedish rule in the 18th century to counter Russia’s growing influence. Today, Suomenlinna is a popular excursion destination where you can see historical fortifications, cannons, tunnels, and museums. It is also a popular place for picnics and enjoying nature, offering beautiful views of the sea and the city of Helsinki. Suomenlinna can be easily reached by ferry from Helsinki Market Square, and there is also accommodation.

Suomenlinna offers a great place to admire the starry sky on autumn evenings. For instance, at a place called Kustaanmiekka in Suomenlinna, you can distinguish the Milky Way from a clear night sky.

Morning Trip to Torronsuo or Another Bog Along the Duckboards

The name of Finland is “Suomi” in Finnish and is thought to possibly come from the name “Suomaa” which means bog land. Finland has had a lot of bogs, and although later a large part of them have been drained for forests, there are still plenty of beautiful and natural bogs in our country.

Walking in a bog is a great and very Finnish experience, and many bogs have built narrow wooden paths or ‘duckboards’ where you can walk without getting wet and sinking into the bog. Early in the morning, when the fog still hovers over the bog, is the best time to experience the Finnish bogs.

Tip: Many national parks have beautiful bog areas where you can walk along the duckboards and enjoy peace and quiet. Such national parks include Torronsuo, Valkmusa, Patvinsuo, Leivonmäki, and nearly all national parks in Lapland.

Visit to the National Museum

The National Museum , located in Helsinki, offers a deep dive into Finnish prehistory, history, and culture. Here you will find fascinating exhibitions that take you on a journey to the past and introduce you to what Finland and Finnishness are all about. The National Museum’s exhibitions have a lot of interactivity and are also interesting for children. Equip yourself with comfortable walking shoes and an open mind, and several hours to explore the museum’s rich exhibitions.

Mushroom Trip to the Forest Guided by an Expert

Autumn is the climax of the mushroom season in Finland. The Finnish nature grows esteemed edible mushrooms such as porcini, matsutake, chanterelles, horn of plenty, and much, much more. On a mushroom trip, you can also enjoy the beauty, peace, and quiet of the Finnish forest, as well as do concentration exercises when you look for sometimes very hidden mushrooms in the hiding places of mosses and shrubs.

Also, some of the world’s most poisonous mushrooms, such as the European destroying angel, grow in Finland. Therefore, it is very important to pick mushrooms only under the guidance of an expert guide, unless you happen to be an experienced mushroom expert yourself.

Tip: Join a guided mushroom trip where you learn to identify different mushroom species and enjoy the delicacies offered by the forest. Many Finnish nature businesses offer guided mushroom trips for groups. You can ask for local business tips from your destination area’s nature center, for example.

Overnight Stay in a Cottage or Glamping Accommodation in the Heart of Nature

The Finnish autumn is cool and even cold, but in certain types of accommodation, you can enjoy the immediate proximity of nature comfortably. Experience luxurious overnight accommodation in glamping accommodation in the heart of nature. Haltia Lake Lodge in Nuuksio offers tents equipped with amenities, located in the middle of beautiful nature, where you get to sleep well in a bed with a proper mattress and fresh sheets, while the forest nature practically opens up before your eyes. Similar accommodation options are available all over Finland, and a good alternative are also private rental cottages, which are often located in the middle of nature but still at the end of a car road.

Tip: When booking, ask about the possibility of renting bicycles or a canoe so that you can explore the surroundings independently.

Enjoying Silence and Clean Air in Nature

Finland is known for its clean air and eye-soothing natural environments. Even a short, even just 15-minute stay in nature has been proven to have good health effects, such as lowering blood pressure. Visit national parks such as Koli , Liesjärvi, or Teijo, for example, to experience the healing effects of silence and clean air.

Finnish national parks always have well-marked routes of various lengths to walk, so you don’t have to fear getting lost as long as you stay on the route. Often there are also other hikers in the area, as national parks are popular among locals for hiking and picnic trips. This can create a sense of safety for many, as you don’t have to walk alone in nature. In general, there is not much to fear in Finnish nature, as, for example, wild animals avoid humans from afar.

Tip: Ask briskly for help, information, or tips from other hikers, and even before the hike, it is worth contacting the local nature center to ensure which route you and your group should take.

Lapland’s Autumn Foliage

Lapland is known for its magnificent landscapes, and in the autumn it turns into a true symphony of colors, as in Lapland in addition to trees, also the low ground plants come into an exceptionally colorful autumn foliage. The autumn foliage season is at its best in September when the leaves change color before the arrival of winter. This is the best time to visit, for example, Pallas-Yllästunturi , Urho Kekkonen, or Pyhä-Luosto National Parks or even the Teno River valley in Utsjoki or Kilpisjärvi in the municipality of Enontekiö.

Tip: Plan your trip to Lapland during the autumn foliage season well in advance, and book accommodation from one of the region’s atmospheric cottages or hotels. We hope this list inspires you to plan an unforgettable autumn trip to Finland.

Welcome to enjoy the enchantment of Finnish autumn!

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Ruska Season in Finland: Autumn in Finland 2024

Autumn in Europe offers a mosaic of experiences. One of the must-visit places during this season is Finland. As the temperature drops and Autumn foliage begins, Finland’s ruska season provides a spectacle that’s sure to captivate every member of the family.

Table of Contents

What is Ruska?

Derived from the Inari Sámi word ‘ruške’ and the North Sámi word ‘ruški’, ruska is the period when Finland’s forests transform into an artist’s palette.

As September ushers in, trees drape themselves in vibrant shades of yellow, red, and orange. What’s more fascinating is that this color transition moves from north to south at a remarkable speed, covering 500 kilometres of Finland in just a couple of weeks.

When and Where to Experience Ruska?

Typically, ruska starts in the north of Finland in early September and gradually moves southward. By late September to early October, the southern parts of the country, including Helsinki, will be in the full throes of this colorful season.

Lapland, the northernmost region of Finland, offers some of the most stunning ruska views. The fells and vast wilderness areas, interspersed with crystal-clear lakes and rivers, provide a perfect backdrop for the red and gold leaves. This is also where ruska begins, so if you’re eager to get an early glimpse, head north!

National parks like Oulanka, Pallas-Yllästunturi, and Urho Kekkonen are prime locations to immerse yourself in the ruska experience. Trails in these parks give visitors the opportunity to wander amidst the brilliant colors.

Stay Updated with Visit Finland’s Live Map

The autumn foliage live map from Visit Finland helps you keep track of where the ruska is most vibrant. This AI-powered tool forecasts the most breathtaking regions and the peak duration, ensuring you don’t miss out on nature’s grand show and you can plan your trip accordingly.

Ruska and Finnish Culture

Ruska is more than just a visual spectacle for Finns; it’s deeply embedded in their culture and traditions. The season is a time for reflection, relaxation, and connecting with nature.

Many locals will retreat to their summer cottages, embracing the season by picking mushrooms or berries, or simply hiking and enjoying the views.

Moreover, ruska is celebrated in various Finnish art forms, including music, painting, and literature. It’s not uncommon to come across poetic odes to this season, lauding the ephemeral beauty of nature’s transition.

Ruska Season Elsewhere in Europe

While Finland’s Ruska is extra special, other parts of Europe also celebrate the autumnal spectacle in their special ways. From the crimson vineyards of France to the golden beech forests of Germany, each region offers a distinctive palette of fall colors.

Exploring the fiery forests of the Carpathians in Romania or walk under the golden canopies of Scotland’s woodlands.

What’s on in Finland During Ruska Season 2024 – Autumn in Finland

Pumpkin weeks in salo.

Salo, located on Finland’s southwest coast, lights up during its Pumpkin Weeks – a celebration of the iconic fall vegetable.

Dive into the festive mood with pumpkin-inspired treats at local cafés and restaurants.

As dusk sets, the garden transforms with thousands of glowing jack-o’-lanterns at Rannikko Garden. A must-visit for a warm autumnal glow.

See the Northern Lights in Rovaniemi

Head to Rovaniemi, Finland’s Lapland gem, for a front-row seat to the Northern Lights. Here, the skies light up with brilliant colors, turning an ordinary night into a magical display.

Whether you’re cozied up by a fire or adventuring on a frozen lake, Rovaniemi offers the perfect backdrop to this natural wonder.

Autumn Aurora Floating – 120cm Plus – Older Kids Only

Imagine floating in a frozen lake, gazing up at the Northern Lights – it’s as magical as it sounds! In Rovaniemi, this surreal experience is made safe and comfortable with a high-quality rescue suit that keeps you completely dry and warm, even in the chilling 0-degree waters.

While you float and relax, on a clear night, the vast starry sky above becomes the perfect canvas for the mesmerizing dance of the auroras. And don’t worry about the details; this adventure includes transfers, the floating suit, refreshing hot drinks, and expert guidance in English.

More Info Here

Hiking Amidst the Colors

There’s nothing quite like the sensation of crisp autumn air on your face as you trek through a stunning forest. Finland’s national parks become even more alluring during ruska.

• Oulanka National Park : Located in northern Finland, the park offers a variety of trails, with the Karhunkierros (Bear’s Ring) being the most famous. Wandering through this trail will bring you face-to-face with ruska’s brilliant hues, waterfalls, and hanging bridges.
• Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park : Here, the fells offer panoramic views of the golden Lappish landscapes. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to combine hiking with breathtaking vistas.

A Citybreak in Helsinki

Helsinki, Finland’s dynamic seaside capital, beckonswith its unique mix of metropolitan flair and serene Nordic landscapes.

As you wander the city streets, you’ll encounter a blend of historic charm and modern design, from the bustling Market Square filled with Finnish delicacies to the cutting-edge architecture and revered design museums that pepper the city.

For those looking to shop, the Design District offers a maze of quirky boutiques, while those in search of relaxation can find solace in Helsinki’s iconic saunas or the green expanses of Esplanadi Park.

Come autumn, Helsinki undergoes a magical transformation during the ruska season. The city’s trees and parks are painted in hues of gold, amber, and fiery red, making it an enchanting time for a stroll along the Baltic Sea or to catch a ferry ride exploring the surrounding archipelago.

The cooler temperatures and vibrant colors provide the perfect backdrop for enjoying a cup of traditional Finnish coffee or indulging in seasonal treats.

It’s a special time in Helsinki, and there’s no better season to experience the heart of Finnish culture.

You May Also Like: Family Europe Winter Packing List Guide: 101 Essential Items

Berry and Mushroom Picking

Autumn is harvest time in the Finnish forests. The ground is replete with a variety of berries and mushrooms.

• Go on a berry-picking expedition. Cloudberries, lingonberries, and bilberries are ripe for the picking. They are not only delicious but also offer a genuine Finnish forest experience.
• If mushrooms interest you, consider going with a local or a guide. Finland boasts several edible mushroom varieties, but knowledge is essential for safe picking.

Canoeing and Kayaking

While ruska bedecks the forests, the lakes and rivers provide serene contrasts with their calm, reflective waters.

• Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle on the tranquil waters of Lake Saimaa or any of Finland’s thousands of lakes. The mirrored images of ruska on the water’s surface are simply mesmerizing.

Wildlife Watching

Ruska is not just about colors; it’s also a time when Finnish wildlife is active, preparing for the winter ahead.

• Northern Finland, especially regions around Kuusamo, offer wildlife watching tours. With luck, you might spot bears, wolverines, or elks in their natural habitats.

Final Words: Ruska Season in Finland

Finland during ruska is a mesmerizing destination for families. The natural beauty, combined with child-friendly activities, makes it an unforgettable autumnal escape.

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Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.

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Autumn Activities

Autumn in Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland is about foliage and intensive colors of nature – it’s also time for the first Northern Lights of the season, hiking in nature and other outdoors activities such as berry picking and collecting mushrooms.

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Hunting Northern Lights with Lappish Barbecue

Hunt for the Northern Lights in the middle of the untouched nature, escaping from the light pollution of the town. Taste a traditional Lappish barbecue and warm yourself by the fire while waiting for the magical lights.

Northern Lights Photography Tour

The Northern Lights dancing up above is such a powerful and unique natural phenomenon: it changes lifes down on earth. Being one of the best places to spot the Auroras, Finnish Lapland is the ideal place to see them!

Meet Santa’s reindeer on their summer holiday in Rovaniemi

Aurora Borealis Picnic

Northern Light tour with picnic, by riverside. Tour operating from September to the end of April.

Private Aurora Borealis Hunting for 1-6 group

Private tour to hunt for Northern Lights by minivan for group 1-6 persons. Price is for all group in hour (125€/h), not person.

Boat Fishing Tour

Experience a guided 2 hour fishing trolling tour on the rivers Kemijoki and Ounasjoki in Rovaniemi! Price is for group 1-5, not person.

Taste of Wilderness

Our best seller! The real feeling of snowmobiling

Searching for the Auroras / 3h driving

Aurora Prime Time!

Korouoma Canyon Summer Tour 08:30-15:00

Enjoy the nature sceneries of Korouoma canyon!

Take a walk with our lovely huskies in the nature.

Trekking in Lappish Nature, Rovaniemi

Let us take you to an enjoyable and relaxing nature walk with a local guide

Wellness from Finnish Nature, Rovaniemi

Get familiar with the Finns close relationship with nature that shows in the local way of life

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Old Pine Husky

We are a small Italian family-run husky farm, we have around 40 dogs. We offer all winter activities, first of all, safari husky with our dogs, and others as well as snowshoes, sauna, jacuzzi, ice fishing, and snowmobile

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Ruska a.k.a fall foliage – part of the magnificent colors of autumn in Finland

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Table of Contents

What does ruska mean.

The word ruska (aka fall color or fall foliage) means the brilliance of the plants that shed their leaves in autumn, due to the dyes contained in the leaves. Ruska is found all over the globe in places with clearly distinguishable seasons. It is possible to admire the fall foliage in both trees, as well as in herbaceous plants that grow in the ground level. In Finnish language the fall colors visible in the trees is called as puuruska (fall foliage in the trees), and the splendor of color seen in the sparrow plants is called maaruska (fall foliage in the ground).

What causes the fall foliage?

In Finland, ruska is a sign of the beginning of autumn and the end of the growing season. In this case, the decrease in light and the decrease in temperature lead to the cessation of plant contact, whereby the leaf green of the plants begins to decompose and other dyes contained in the leaf, such as red anthocyanins, orange-red carotenoids and yellow xanthophylls, are released.

The molecules that used to form leafy green move to a “store” after decomposition into the longer-term organs of plants, that is, in trees, for example, to their trunks and roots. This is because the formation of leaf green consumes a lot of energy from the wood, which should not be wasted, but also allows the same material to be used again.

There are also exceptions for trees, as gray and black alder, for example, drop their leaves green in the autumn. This is because alders do not need to conserve nutrients due to the nitrogen-fixing bacteria living in their roots. While the trees bind nutrients from their leaf green into the trunk, they also clean themselves by transferring the contaminants that have accumulated during the summer to the leaves, which later fall to the ground.

Once the trees have stored the leafy green, the hormones in the trees trigger the breakdown of the cell walls in the leaf stalks. During this process, the cells die by a couple of cell layers in an area called the detachment zone, where detachment cells form. The junction between the branch and the leaf also closes to prevent fungi and bacteria from entering the tree branch. After the formation of the detachment cell, the leaves are attached to the branches of the tree so loosely that their own weight may be sufficient for the leaf to detach and fall to the ground.

When does the fall foliage season start?

Many travelers who want to schedule their visit to Lapland during the best fall foliage season. It is worth paying close attention to the timing of the trip, because according to an Ilta-Sanomat story, the most beautiful fall color lasts only about 10 days in Lapland.

Plants growing in Lapland are generally very similar genetically, as they are used to growing in rather harsh conditions and at the mercy of weather conditions. Due to this, fall colors hit all the trees and plants in the Lapland area at about the same time. The difference is significant in Central Europe, for example, where there can easily be a month and a half difference between trees in the same area at the time of autumn. In Central Europe, for example, the situation may be such that ruska hits the first trees in early October, while the last ones do not play along until mid-November.

A dry habitat usually advances the time of autumn, while cold weather does not in itself affect it, although exposure of yellowing and yellowing leaves to night frosts makes them shed more easily than normal. In addition to this, it is also believed that night frosts further increase especially the redness in the leaves.

The yellowing of leaves can be observed already in July – August, but these are not yet indications of the onset of autumn, but the reason for this phenomenon is usually various fungal diseases and the prevailing drought.

Ruska starts in Lapland from the northernmost parts of the country and its peak progresses from there to the south. It then “advances” about 500 kilometers in about two weeks of time. In northernmost Lapland, such as Nuorgam and Utsjoki , fall colors are usually at their best as the second week of September is known. The brilliance of color continues to decline from this for another ten days until all the leaves have dripped about a week before the end of September. Maaruska passes a little earlier than the peak of the tree and its peak is usually less than a week earlier than the peak of the tree.

In southern Lapland, the autumn peak occurs at a slightly later time, ie in practice in Rovaniemi and Ranua , for example, for the period between about 15 and 20 September. The autumn time also behaves like these in northern Lapland at these altitudes, meaning that the most beautiful colors can be enjoyed for a few days, which lasts a little quieter until the beginning of October, when the majority of the leaves have usually fallen to the ground.

At the height of Oulu and Kajaani , ie at the 65th latitude, the autumn peak arrives again slightly later than southern Lapland, ie between about 20 and 25 September. In these areas, it is still possible to admire the colors of autumn even during the first weeks of October, until by the middle of the month the trees have again usually dropped almost all their leaves.

The biggest difference in the time of autumn is noticeable in southern Finland, where the autumn peak is always in October. Of the inland cities in southern Finland, Lahti, Tampere and Kouvola , for example, the autumn peak is reached during the first week of October, while the southwestern and southern coasts usually reach the autumn peak a couple of days behind the hinterland. Due to the proximity of the sea, fall colors also stay in these areas for a little longer than in other countries.

Some of the deciduous trees in southern Finland, such as oaks, hold their leaves more tightly than other trees and only drop their yellowed leaves during the first frosts.

Puuruska and maaruska

Autumn colors also appears in different  ways between various plants and trees. Of trees growing in Finnish forests, alder usually does not turn yellow at all during the autumn, aspen can be either yellow or red, maple is orange-red, rowan is usually the most red of our woody plants and birch is the most yellow. Although autumn is usually perceived only in deciduous trees, it is also less visible in our conifers. It is difficult to see the coniferous spruce brown at all, but the pine instead turns partially yellow and sheds some of its needles at the same time as the deciduous trees.

Maaruska’s most colorful plants are dwarf birch, blueberry, clover and black bearberry. The concept of maaruska is much less used than the general concept of ruska, and in Finland when talking about ruska, attention is paid almost exclusively to the one noticed in trees, which is perceived as more impressive and easier to notice. However, while hiking or just spending time in the forests of Lapland, it is definitely worth paying attention to the ground level also.

Fall foliage season things to do in Ranua

As I said earlier, autumn time in Lapland is definitely the best time of the year for hiking and camping, for example, and one of the best times for the northern lights is usually the autumn season, when nights are perhaps the darkest, but temperatures are usually not as cold as winter.

In our previous blog posts, you will find information about Ranua’s hiking trails and camping sites and the Northern Lights , for example. You can find out more about Ranua’s autumn tips in our Autumn Holiday in Ranua blog post.

Sources and about the subject elsewhere: Visit Finland | Autumn colours galore – Experience Lapland Foreigner.fi | Ruska,an explosion of colour in Finnish forests   Lapland.fi | Ruska – the colors of Arctic Autumn Ilta-Sanomat | The most beautiful ruska last in Lapland for 10 days

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DIY Finland Road-Trip: Lapland in Autumn For Best Northern Lights

If you are planning a Finland road-trip in autumn, great decision!

One of the best ways to experience the amazing autumn scenery is to take a Finland road-trip in beautiful Lapland . The locals describe this colourful foliage as “Ruska” where you will see trees and shrubs become a vibrant blend of fiery orange, red, and yellow.

In northern Finland , Ruska starts in September and lasts for about 2-3 weeks. You can pick wild berries and mushrooms as you explore the many national parks and trails in Lapland. You might even see some reindeer as you drive through the country.

The best part is that the Northern Lights are back in full force as the nights become longer in autumn. The milder 0-10°C weather is also perfect for outdoor Northern Lights chasing, so you can stay out longer to increase your chances.

If you prefer to stay indoors, you can stay in a glass igloo and fall asleep under the Northern Lights. You might be able to find amazing deals for hotels during this off-peak period.

Read more: 10 Best Glass Igloos In Finland For Northern Lights How Much Does Finland Travel Cost? Here Is A Breakdown Where To Stay In Rovaniemi: Best Lapland Accommodations

Accommodation: Hotel Utsjoki

Accommodation: meieriet hotel, accommodation: arctic aurora borealis cottage, accommodation: star arctic hotel, accommodation: santa claus holiday village.

This article uses affiliate links where I make a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Finland Road-Trip Tips

The landscape is relatively flat in Finland and the roads are mostly straight and in good condition. There is no snow yet so driving is easy and you don’t need to worry about snow tires. The speed limit ranges from 80-100km/h outside the built up areas, though you would not be encountering much traffic in Lapland.

In order to enjoy the autumn scenery, I recommend going at a slower pace and limit the drive time to 3 hours each day. This gives you enough time and energy to enjoy each location and its activities. Here are some driving tips for your Finland road-trip.

• It’s the law to use headlights at all times
• Drive on the right side of the road, overtake on the left
• Move your car off to the side after filling your gas tank before going inside for payment
• The road signs are dual-language, so you will see the name of the destination in both Finnish and Swedish
• There are speed cameras near built up areas and towns, try to keep to the speed limit when approaching busier places
• Bring along a car charging adapter and mobile phone stand if required

Renting a car in advance for your Finland road-trip is easy. There are car rental options in every major city and airport, with the option to return your car at a different location for a fee. We booked a small automatic car with unlimited miles and vehicle insurance via Europcar on RentalCars.com . If you are planning to visit other countries apart from Finland, there will usually be an additional fee of around 50 Euros.

Remember to bring the credit card with the name of the main driver, along with a valid driver’s license. As a tourist, a valid driver’s license should be under these categories:

• EU or EEA Member State
• Issued in Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, or a country that has ratified the Geneva/Vienna Road Traffic Convention
• Written/translated into Finnish, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, English, German or French by a reliable source

We brought our driver’s license that was issued in English in Singapore and had no issues during car collection. You can check for more details of license validity here .

Chasing Northern Lights in Finland

The Northern Lights season begins in September until early April. Despite the popularity of Finland travel in winter, autumn is a great season for milder outdoor conditions. The autumn equinox in September and October also coincides with greater geomagnetic activity.

Lapland is situated in the Arctic Circle so you get excellent chances of viewing the Northern Lights as you go further north. In northern villages like Utsjoki and Kilpisjarvi , locals claim to see the Northern Lights every 4 out of 5 nights during their peak.

In general the best time each night is from 10pm to 2am when the sky is darkest. You can also check the KP index which measures the amount of geomagnetic activity in the Earth’s atmosphere from a scale of 0-10. The average night in Lapland has KP index of 1-3, which is good enough for Northern Lights to appear.

Weather conditions are critical when chasing Northern Lights, especially when it comes to cloud cover. I recommend spending around 7-10 days in Lapland to buffer for suboptimal weather. You can check the forecast nearer to your travel dates and maybe focus your efforts on driving out when the night sky is expected to be clear. Even if you don’t see any Northern Lights, you will definitely be able to stargaze and even try photographing the Milky Way.

Here are some useful resources for stargazing and Northern Lights chasing:

• Aurora Reach website/app that forecasts and monitors Northern Light activity with community check-ins and mobile notifications
• Night Sky App shows the constellations, Milky Way positions, and compass directions as you point your phone to the sky
• Space weather in Finland showing the estimated probability of Aurora based on region
• Youtube live video from Utsjoki in Finnish Lapland provided by Aurora Holidays

Day 1: Start your Finland road-trip by driving along Route 970 to Utsjoki

Distance for the day: 250km

Our Finland road-trip will begin in Ivalo which is only 1.5 hours away via domestic flight from Helsinki . Ivalo Airport is the northernmost airport in Finland and serves as the gateway to northern Lapland . You can pick up your rental car at the booth near the exit after confirming paperwork with the staff. We will be driving through Inari and Karigasniemi , taking Route 970 to get to Utsjoki .

If you need a snack after the flight, I recommend dropping by any K-supermarket in Ivalo. We bought cooked salmon and potatoes to eat in the carpark and it was delicious! The next place you can stop at for lunch is Hotel Guossi in Karigasniemi. It is a small town at the foot of Mount Ailigas and also near the border of Norway and Finland. Next, we will proceed north for the amazing Route 970 drive.

Route 970 has been termed the most scenic route in Finland because of the beautiful valley views of the River Teno that run between Finland and Norway. This part of the trip is meant to be taken slowly, so go ahead and take many pictures along the way.

Hotel Utsjoki is one of the best hotels in the far north of Lapland for watching the Northern Lights. If the weather is right, you will be treated to the most spectacular aurora showing in the comfort of this cabin-igloo hybrid.

Check the latest deals and availability for Hotel Utsjoki on Booking.com.

Day 2: Detour to Vardo (Norway) for the Varanger National Tourist Route

Distance for the day: 200km

At this point we are so close to Norway that we might as well explore the wild coastal roads of northern Norway , all the way to the end of Europe. The landscape along the Varanger National Tourist Route evolves into rugged seascapes of the Barents Sea . The weather changes unpredictably the further north you go, and it made us feel like we were in a different world.

There are several viewpoints and historical sites along this route, such as the Steilneset Memorial which commemorates the witch trials held in Vardo in 1621. Vardo is one of the larger towns at the end of this route and you can choose to stay here for the night before making the drive back. Fun fact – the first subsea tunnel in Norway was built to link Vardo island to continental Norway, and you will get to drive through this. Another highlight in Vardo is the Drakkar , a cool art project installation done by Russian students in 2016.

There are only a handful of accommodation options in this small town. Meieriet Hotel is run by an elderly couple and they made us feel very welcome. Although it was a cold and rainy evening, we felt warm and comfortable inside. Be sure to try their Norwegian Bacalao dish which is made using dried salted cod. Do note that you need to climb a flight of stairs to get to your room.

Check the latest deals and availability for Meieriet Hotel on Booking.com.

Day 3: Drive back to Nourgam for cottage stay

Next, we drive back to Nourgam to explore the fells, lakes, and even do some short hikes. Nourgam is an eastern part of the Utsjoki region, and I recommend staying in a cottage with a balcony or porch facing the river. It will be a great place to relax with some hot drinks as you watch the sunset. If weather permits, a Northern Lights display over the river would be magical.

The Arctic Aurora Borealis Cottage is in such a lovely location overlooking the river and the opposite hills. We loved staying here during autumn as we could see fall foliage all around the cottage.

It was a huge cabin with a loft overlooking the river view. If you’re coming with a group, this place is perfect for hanging out. There’s a fully equipped kitchen as well so you can make dinner and coffee on your own.

The best part is, it didn’t cost a bomb and was just value for money. We felt safe here and really enjoyed the secluded location.

Check the latest deals and availability for Arctic Aurora Borealis Cottage on Booking.com.

Day 4: Drive to Saariselka for Glass Igloo stay

Distance for the day: 240km

As you drive back to Utsjoki you can explore the historical church huts which were owned by Sami families in the 18th century. Our next stop is Saariselka , a resort village that serves as the starting point for many trails in Urho Kekkonen National Park .

Staying at Star Arctic Hotel was one of our highlights because it was at the top of the Kaunispaa Fell , offering amazing sunset and night sky views. It is also very popular in winter because of its proximity to the top of the ski slope. The Aurora cabins are facing North and away from the town center, such that light pollution is minimised for better Northern Lights viewing experience.

Dining in the resort’s restaurant, Kaunis, was also a treat as we basked in the sunset glow while enjoying fresh trout and reindeer steak. You can book the private sauna for 2 pax at 15 EUR, which includes shower and toilet amenities. It is very relaxing because they will pre-heat the sauna for you, and all you need to do is bring a change of clothes.

Check the latest deals and availability for Star Arctic Hotel on Booking.com.

It was about 8:30pm when the sun had set and there appeared to be fuzzy green clouds in the sky. Merrick’s iPhone 13 managed to capture the Northern Lights through a long exposure photo so we knew that our eyes were not playing tricks on us. We rushed to get our camera gear out to start shooting because we were so nervous that they will be gone soon.

Thankfully the Northern Lights became even more dramatic for the next 2-3 hours as the sky got darker. We stood outside our room for a long time trying to photograph and admire the lights. Eventually we retreated to the room for some hot tea before lying down on the bed to look at the stars and Northern Lights. This was the day I believed that Northern Lights were real.

Day 5: Explore Husky Farm and Urho Kekkonen National Park

Saariselka also offers husky and reindeer farm visits, and either your hotel or another vendor like Lapland Safari can help you to arrange them. You can either book the activities online, or simply call them to make arrangements and go to the office for payment at least 1 day beforehand. There aren’t many guides working during autumn, so it’s better to make bookings in advance. During our husky farm visit they showed us how they train the dogs for the winter sled-pulling season. We also enjoyed the chance to walk one of the huskies around the kennel.

The top of Kaunispaa Fell offers a beautiful panoramic view of Saariselka. In fact, many drive up here to watch the sunset and the Northern Lights because of its elevation. You can also try the amazing salmon soup at Kaunispaan Huippu Oy , a popular rest stop for food and souvenirs.

Urho Kekkonen National Park is a great place for hiking and mountain biking over the fell. There are many well-marked trails that you can explore on a day hike from Saariselka, with varying levels of difficulty.

The trails in Urho Kekkonen National Park are divided into “Out onto the Fell” which are easy and theme-based, and “Out into the Wilderness” which are more demanding. Here are some themed hiking trails that start and end in Saariselka suitable for a day hike:

• Aurorapolku: 2.1km (1hr, map )
• Iisakkipaa: 3km or 7km (2-5hr, map )
• Rumakuru: 14km (4-5hr, map )
• Prospektori: 7.4km or 9km (3-4hr, map )

The themed trails are marked with signposts with their own logo symbols, so just follow those to avoid veering off onto wilderness trails. If you are interested in the wilderness trails, you can follow any of the brown-coloured trails on this map’s terrain. There is public parking space near the Saariselka starting point so you can drive there to start your hike.

Day 6: Drive to Rovaniemi Santa Claus Village

On your way back to Rovaniemi you will pass through Tankavaara , which is another starting point for other trails in Urho Kekkonen National Park. There is a short 1km trail called Urpiaislenkki where you can take a chill walk and try berry picking. The morning air is crisp and it’s nice to be out in nature again. You can even visit the museum at Tankavaara Gold Village , or attend a gold panning workshop.

If you get tired during the drive, there are several summer cafes along the way that are situated beside lakes or reservoirs. You can take a coffee break and buy pancakes at places like Zippi & Suhaus and Cafe Harriana . These cafes seem to be closed from October onwards as the season changes.

Most people visit Santa Claus Village when they visit Rovaniemi just because its Finland’s trademark. It is located on the border of the Arctic Circle and many like to take photos of themselves crossing this line.

Another fun thing to do is to send a postcard mail from the Santa Claus’ Main Post Office for someone to receive during Christmas. It is a stone’s throw away from the airport and city, and you might get decent hotel rates in the Santa Claus Holiday Village given the off-peak period.

There are some nice lakes and trails to explore within 10-20 minutes drive, and you can even start scouting out locations for Northern Lights viewing. That’s the fun part about going on your own Finland road-trip!

Check the latest deals and availability for Santa Claus Holiday Village on Booking.com.

Here are more of my recommendations for where to stay in Rovaniemi .

Day 7: Rovaniemi city tour

There are a few popular attractions in Rovaniemi that you should visit:

• Arktikum Science Centre and Museum – focusing on Arctic issues and the history/culture of Lapland
• Korundi House of Culture – contemporary art exhibitions
• Science Centre Pilke – exploration of northern forests and the use of wood

They are all walking distance from each other, and you can purchase the Culture Pass to get access to all three museums. This is a multi-entry ticket valid for 7 days. My personal favourite is the Arktikum because of the stunning architecture and the informative exhibitions about Lapland’s way of life in the early days.

If you want to have dinner in the more popular restaurants like Nili Restaurant or Gustav , it is the norm to make a reservation beforehand to avoid disappointment.

Northern Lights in Rovaniemi

Rovaniemi has higher light pollution compared to smaller towns like Saariselka, so it’s a good idea to seek out dark sites to watch the Northern Lights. The popular places are Norvajarvi and Olkkajarvi lakes which are just 10km away from the Santa Claus Village.

We stopped by Norvajarvi in the evening to enjoy golden hour and noticed that the sky looked clear. It was really beautiful and we knew it would be a great place for Northern Lights as it was far from the main road and its street lights.

When we returned to this spot at close to 10pm there were already 3 groups of people there. Some of them were locals, and some were people from a Northern Lights chasing tour group. We knew we struck the jackpot with the location scouting. We saw some Northern Lights but the clouds were threatening to cover up the ones over the lake.

After some time, we turned our eyes to look north and saw a vertical streak of Northern Lights dancing over the trees. It was very majestic and of course everyone wanted a photo with it. We finally managed to get this shot of us which also captures how beautiful the Northern Lights were against the starry sky. We spent almost 3 hours out there and finally left after midnight. What a nice way to conclude this Finland road-trip.

Day 8: End of Finland road-trip, back to Helsinki

Finally it’s time for the flight back from Rovaniemi to Helsinki . The rental car return process was simply a key drop at the airport with no one at the counter. If you encounter any issues, such as being unable to find the rental car park location, you can call the hotline and they will assist you.

I hope this DIY Finland road-trip guide can help you plan your next scenic getaway. It was really nice to enjoy the small things like wild berry picking and watching the sunset over the river. The Northern Lights were definitely the highlight of our trip, and I wish you all the best in your Lapland adventure. Remember to bring your camera!

If you find this post useful, save it for later by pinning the images below.

Do you want some help planning your next trip? Let’s plan it together !

Read more: Top 10 Road Trip Essentials How To Take Great Photos Of Yourself Hiking

Janice, a California-based travel writer from Singapore, discovered her love for hiking and camping during her studies in Los Angeles. Through her blog, she now shares detailed itineraries for adventures in California, Asia, and beyond. She also talks about gear recommendations and tips for beginners, hoping to inspire them to explore the great outdoors with confidence.

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Matthew Pang

Hi Janice, understand that you did your “DIY Finland Road” in autumn but I would like to know from you on whether your this itinerary applicable during the month of Dec (winter)? Especially on the self drive portion on the road!!

Hi Matthew, I think driving in winter might be challenging if you’re not a local because it’s common for google maps to not account for road changes/reroutes because of the snow. There are a lot of winter activities you can still DIY though – let me know if you’re interested in some of them e.g. husky sleds or reindeer rides. Drop me an email at [email protected] and I’ll share the links with you

Hello Janice, thanks for sharing the tips! Do you remember when did you visit, early or mid of September? Thanks!

Hi Cynthia, we visited in mid to late September. hope that helps!

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These Four Walls

10 reasons to visit Finnish Lapland in autumn

September 18, 2022

[Advertisement – this post is based on a press trip. All words and opinions are my own]

There are some destinations that weave their way into your soul – destinations that speak to you from the moment you arrive, and that you long to return to from the moment you leave. For me, Finnish Lapland is one such place. 

I first visited in January 2020, when I journeyed to the small town of Levi, 170km above the Arctic Circle , to review recently opened Design Hotel Levi . I was instantly captivated by the snowy wilderness, the vast skies, the crisp Arctic air, the legends of the indigenous Sámi people, and the ethereal, ever-changing light. And I loved the winter activities , which ranged from exhilarating husky-sled rides across frozen lakes to gentle snow-shoe meanders through silent forests.

I’d been dreaming of another trip ever since, so I was delighted when Design Hotel Levi invited me back to see what it and the area have to offer in autumn. And it turns out there’s a lot. Winter may be peak season here, but September and October have their own kind of magic. The landscape takes on a different allure without its blanket of white, and there’s a chance to experience outdoor adventures that simply aren’t possible once the first snowflakes start to fall. 

Here are 10 reasons why you should visit Finnish Lapland in autumn. 

Ruska foliage

Autumn starts early this far north and by mid-September Lapland is ablaze with vibrant colours, known as ruska in Finnish. It’s a beautiful sight, with shades of gold, ochre and crimson painting the forests and fells. For a particularly impressive visual feast, head out early in the morning, when wisps of mist swirl through the air, or in the golden sunshine of early evening. Or venture along the lakeshores and riverbanks, where the trees are reflected in water so still and deep that it looks ink-black.

Stunning views

It’s not only the foliage that makes for amazing autumn vistas. During my winter visit the lakes that pepper the landscape were hidden under snow. This time around they were revealed in all their beauty, glowing like pools of molten silver amid the sea of boreal forests.

To truly appreciate this majestic wilderness head to the top of Levi Fell, which sits just behind Design Hotel Levi. There are two summits, each served by gondolas (the ‘Express’ gondola from the centre of town and ‘Gondola2000’ from the southern edge) or long sets of wooden steps. The views stretch 100km or so in every direction, and a panoramic walkway winds its way from viewpoint to viewpoint. There are also a few cafes where you can admire the scenery over a warming drink. My favourite was Palovartija , which sits in a tiny log cabin and serves just-baked donuts filled with gooey apple jam.

The Northern Lights

Finnish Lapland is one of the best places in the world to view the Aurora Borealis, said in Sámi mythology to be caused by a fox sparking the sky alight with its tail. And autumn is one of the best times. Not only are there more cloud-free nights, but the solar winds that cause the phenomenon are at their most active in the weeks around the equinox on 21st September. In fact I was treated to a display on every night of the trip, starting with a glimpse as my plane came into land on arrival – a far cry from my last visit, when the Aurora remained stubbornly elusive!

To maximise your chances, it’s worth heading to the top of Levi Fell after dark, or spending a night in a glass-roofed cabin at Northern Lights Village , 6km out of town. I did the latter, and I’ve reviewed my stay fully in a separate post . But suffice it to say that snuggling up in a warm, comfy bed as the sky came alive overhead was a magical experience that I’ll never forget.

The cool temperatures and lack of snow make autumn the perfect time to explore Finnish Lapland on foot. There are marked trails of various lengths in and around Levi, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous treks. The nearby Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park also has a range of hiking routes, and for the particularly adventurous there’s the 50km ‘Jotos’ trail from Levi to Ylläs. 

Outdoor thrills

If you like your activities with added adrenaline, autumn is also a wonderful time for mountain biking. You can hire bikes from Zero Point at the foot of the ‘Express’ gondola, and there’s a bike park on the Fell with routes for all abilities. If you want a guide, Polar Star Travel offers a range of mountain-bike and fat-bike excursions.

Other outdoor thrills include whizzing down the Fell on the metal sled track , which starts next to the top of the ‘Express’ gondola, or taking to the lakes and rivers on a canoe tour, again with Polar Star Travel.

Cocooning & campfire coffees

An unforgettable way to immerse yourself in the Lapland wilderness is a ‘cocooning’ session at HaliPuu  (‘Hugging Tree’). It’s the brainchild of Riitta Raekallio-Wunderink and her father, who inherited a beautiful swathe of land and decided to open it up to others. Inspired by the Japanese concept of ‘forest bathing’, they set about creating an area where visitors can lie back in a hammock and soak up the serenity of nature. It was a highlight of my winter trip that I couldn’t wait to experience in a different season, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. Snuggled under a blanket, I spent a blissful half hour swaying in my cocoon, this time gazing up at yellow-gold leaves and green boughs rather than snow-covered branches. It was very tempting to drift off to sleep, and many people do, but I wanted to stay awake to appreciate the sights, sounds and scents around me.

Once my time in the hammock was up, I lingered around the campfire for coffee brewed by Riita’s husband Steffan, who describes himself as the world’s first ‘campfire barista’. He’s spent years perfecting a deliciously smoky blend and it was just as good as I remembered – better, in fact, thanks to his latest invention, chai syrup made with Arctic birch sap. Riita’s homemade marshmallows, just-baked cookies and informative chat made perfect accompaniments, and it was difficult not to be inspired by the Raekallio family’s dedication to protecting and sharing the forest they love.

Floating saunas & lake swims

Roasting in a wood-fired sauna then cooling off with a wild-water swim is a quintessential Finnish experience, and one of the best places to try it is Immel Kartano , just outside Levi. I’d been there during my January 2020 trip, when I had to break the ice to take a dip, but in autumn there are ‘sauna safaris’ on a floating platform that’s taken out to the middle of the lake. There’s something wonderful about sitting back in the heat, watching the landscape drift past the window, before plunging into the chilly Arctic water. The temperature change is a shock to the system but it’s an incredible mood-boaster, and trust me: you really do feel amazing afterwards!

In autumn Lapland’s forests and fells are dotted with bilberries, blueberries, cloudberries, lingonberries, cranberries and an array of mushrooms. You won’t need to look far to find them, and Finland’s ‘everyman’s right’ allows open access for foraging and other purposes, regardless of who owns the land. 

Bear in mind that some mushrooms and berries are poisonous, and others are only edible once cooked. So, make sure you know how to identify the different varieties or book a foraging experience with an expert guide.

Roaming reindeer

Finnish Lapland is home to 200,000 reindeer, and you’ll spot them wandering freely at any time of year. But autumn is a particularly special time to see them. They’re at their largest and strongest, their thick winter fur has started regrowing, and both males and females sport impressive antlers (the females temporarily lose theirs in spring following the birth of their calves, whereas the males shed theirs after rutting season).

I saw reindeer wandering along the side of the road, dashing through the forest in herds, and gathered beneath trees for a nap. And the enchantment of encountering these beautiful creatures didn’t diminish, no matter how many times I came across them.

Beautiful hotels for less

Finally, autumn is a much cheaper time to visit Finnish Lapland than the winter high season, meaning you can treat yourself to a stay somewhere fabulous for a lot less money. Rates at Design Hotel Levi, for example, start at around half the price of January and February – and, having been there twice now, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it.

You can read my full review of the hotel here , but in short it’s sleek and very stylish yet also deeply rooted in its setting. Created by PAVE Architects, the pine-clad building was inspired by the shape of Levi Fell, with copper-framed windows and balconies that jut out like boulders. It’s just as beautiful inside, where the 77 rooms mix contemporary Finnish design with quirky features such as weathered pine headboards, lichen-like carpet patterns and – my favourite touch – glass screens decorated with abstract reindeer photography by Rovaniemi-based Kaisa Sirén. Most importantly, they’re spacious, pin-drop quiet and incredibly comfortable.

It’s a wonderful Lapland base at any time of year, but certain elements of the hotel come into their own in autumn. I loved sitting out on my balcony with a coffee (definitely not possible during my previous stay, when the temperature was -29C!), and I was captivated by the way the copper glowed in the September sunshine. What’s more, the menu in the on-site Kekäle restaurant was packed with local, seasonal ingredients and everything I sampled (wild mushroom soup, beef tenderloin with almond potatoes, white chocolate and cloudberry panna cotta) was delicious.

If you like the idea of visiting Finnish Lapland in autumn, you can get 30% off stays at Design Hotel Levi until 31st October 2022 with the code AUTUMN22 – book here . Rates start at €168 per night for a double room, and you’ll also get a free gondola pass for the duration of your visit.

Levi is easy to reach via the airports at Kittilä (a 10-minute drive) or Rovaniemi (a two-hour drive). Both are served by some direct flights from the UK, or you can connect in Helsinki. There are also regular trains to Rovaniemi from elsewhere in Finland, including an overnight sleeper service from Helsinki. The hotel can arrange transfers, and taxis are readily available for getting around if you don’t want to hire a car.

Canoeing image via Polar Star Travel; floating sauna image via Immel Kartano. All other photography by Abi Dare

September 18, 2022 at 5:10 pm

I love the idea of chugging out onto a lake whilst in the sauna!

September 18, 2022 at 5:24 pm

It was so much fun! If a little hot – you really do want to dive into the water to cool off!

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