Summer Highlights in North Karelia
Cottage holiday by the lake
In North Karelia you can overnight for instance in cottages and in holiday resorts. Do you prefer staying in city center or want to experience unique Finnish nature and lakes in the middle of forests and countryside? We have alternatives for everyone, find your favorite!
National Parks in North Karelia
Pure nature, thousands of lakes, tranquility and countless hiking trails make North Karelia as a dream destination for hikers. In North Karelia we have four unique national parks – Koli, Patvinsuo, Petkeljärvi and Kolovesi. In addition, Ruunaa hiking area provides great circumstances for hiking, fishing and rafting.
Experience Finnish Sauna
To get truly inside the Finnish culture, we recommend you to try the Finnish sauna at least once while you are in Finland. Sauna relieves stress and also has several positive impacts on your health. Read more about our sauna culture and experience the Finnish sauna hype yourself.
.jpg?width=6000&height=3960&name=2025_Pro%20Lakeland_North%20Karelia_summer_Petkelj%C3%A4rvi_hires-7162%20(1).jpg)
Biking trails in North Karelia
Here we have great opportunities for mountain biking and chilly Sunday cycling. North Karelia has over 200 km long contiguous path network and also several other biking trails around the province. Get on your bike and ride through North Karelia!
.jpg?width=2048&height=1360&name=sinivuokko_alus_pohjois-karjalan_laiva_oy%20(1).jpg)
Go on a cruise in North Karelia!
During summer season it's possible to go on a cruise in North Karelia in several destinations. You can enjoy the national landscape of Finland in Pielinen lake, get to know the city of Joensuu from Pielisjoki or admire the historical canals in Heinävesi from the boat. The delicious Saariston Puoti pizza cruises are also a great way to enjoy those warm summer nights.
.jpg?width=1024&height=683&name=VisitKarelia_Harri%20Tarvainen_winter_outdoormeal2%20(1).jpg)
Karelian Cuisine
Have you already tasted Karelian pasties or other traditional pies and pasties with natural flavors? Karelian food tradition has strong roots in the nature of North Karelia. Karelia à la carte combines the best aspects of traditional cuisine with more modern tastes and seasonal ingredients.
.jpg?width=5472&height=3648&name=VK-Harri-Tarvainen-childrenrunning.jpg%20(1).jpg)
Things to do for Families
No matter the weather, there's always something to do for families. Visit one of the local farm animal yards or go grilling sausages at a close by nature trail. Escape room games bring an exciting atmosphere even during rain. Local museums and the Old Mine of Outokumpu - you can find something to do for the whole summer!
Shopping in North Karelia
Interested in some souvenirs or your own memory from your trip in the beautiful North Karelia? There are various local boutiques and food item producers in the area.
Caravan and Camping
Do you prefer staying in the heart of the cities or want to explore the real nature of North Karelia? Here we have different alternatives for caravans and campers but also something for them, who likes glamping with all facilities.
Book activities online
Find experiences and activities in North Karelia region online! Have you always wanted to try Finnish sauna, take a fishing tour on a lake, or explore National Parks together with local guide? Now you can easily find and book activities and enjoy holidays alone or together with your friends and family.