Winter in North Karelia

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Winter Wonderland Awaits You!

North Karelia’s numerous winter activities make it possible to have an eventful vacation. Play in the snow, go skiing or snowshoeing, experience winter fishing or just let your mind and soul relax by watching the beautiful sceneries. Or maybe you want to dive deeper into Finnish culture and try Finnish sauna. The bravest ones can also dip themselves in ice cold water to cool down after sauna. For the sport fans Biathlon World Cup competitions will be held in Kontiolahti, North Karelia.

Here are some tips to help you plan your winter trip in North Karelia.

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Experience Koli on Snow

Koli, the oldest bedrock of Europe, is at its best in snow cover during the winter holidays. National Park and its environment offer a lot to see and do to travelers. Koli offers for example snowshoeing, husky safaris, relaxing spa and downhill skiing. During the winter holidays there are also many skiing events.

Winter holiday in Koli

Biathlon World Cup in Kontiolahti

The Biathlon World Cup will be held next year in Kontiolahti from 5th to 8th of March 2026.

Free bus transportation will be provided from Joensuu, Kontiolahti, and Lehmo to the competition venue and back, making it easy to reach the area. There’s also a new Event Park at the stadium with various sales booths, food, and drinks. The Event Park is accessible even without a ticket to the competition.

Come and enjoy the atmosphere of world-class sports!

Buy Tickets

Äksyt Ämmät Travel Agency

An eco-friendly travel agency Äksyt Ämmät guides you to the best cross-country skiing trails, to get familiar with Finnish culture and to experience other unforgettable adventures. With a guide, you will get more out of your vacation and enjoy your adventures with ease.

Find Your Adventure

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Skiing Tracks

Besides many other winter activities, in North Karelia there are several, well maintained cross-country ski tracks for every skill level.

For example Ilomantsi, the easternmost municipality in Finland and one of the snowiest places in the whole country has well maintained ski tracks for every taste. In Joensuu you can jump on skis almost straight from the town center and Koli area offers an endless amount of snowy kilometers for skiing enthusiasts.

Skiing Tracks in Koli Skiing Tracks in Joensuu Area Skiing Tracks in Ilomantsi

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Try Finnish Sauna and Ice Swimming

To get the most out of Finnish culture, we highly recommend you to try Finnish sauna. Relaxing sauna traditions have several positive impacts on your health. The bravest ones can also dip themselves in ice cold water to cool down after sauna.