Finland is perhaps most famous for its beautiful and complex system of lakes and waterways. Water is everywhere, it seems, leaving many opportunities to set out and explore. In fact, more than 10 percent of Finland is covered by water. Lake Paijanne, north of Helsinki, is Finland's longest lake; Lake Saimaa is its largest. But there are literally thousands of other lakes, islands, rivers and streams that help make all of Finland a land of remarkable beauty year-round. Visitors here may choose to canoe the Lakeland countryside of the Kainuu province, or shoot the rapids near Kuusamo. Or they may choose to avoid the water altogether in favor of golfing, skiing and tennis. Fishing, hunting, hiking and snowmobiling are also popular pursuits, depending on the weather, as well as the pursuit of ultimate relaxation, provided by a world-renowned spa.

Vuokatti
Downhill and cross-country skiing take precedent during the winter months in Vuokatti. Warmer temperatures call for fishing, swimming, hiking and golfing.

Kuusamo
Home to the Kuusamon Tropikki, this lovely area offers year-round natural beauty. Guests here enjoy skiing and snowmobiling in the winter, and riding the rapids during the summer. Other popular pursuits include hiking and reindeer safaris.

Kivijarvi
Home to the Honka Holiday Hannunkivi in central Finland, this area allows visitors to enjoy a tranquil country setting.

Eat...

Kuusamon Tropikki restaurant (Kuusamo). Dine at the Tropikki, then stay a while in one of the resort's spacious one- , two- or three-bedroom units.

George (Helsinki). For a classic Finnish dining experience, try George, located in a 19th century townhouse in the center of town.

Play...

Pamper yourself (Vuokatti). Relax with a massage, then enjoy a cool drink in a sun lounger. It's all part of the program at the spa at Holiday Club Katinkulta.

Find fresh powder. Downhill and cross-country skiing opportunities abound throughout Finland. The slopes at Vuokatti have an indoor half pipe for snowboarders.

Golf (Vuokatti). While staying at the Holiday Club Katinkulta, take advantage of the resort's 18-hole golf course, five putting greens, driving range and practice bunker.

Hike and raft Oulanka National Park (Kuusamo). For white-water rafting fun, consider the Kiutakongas, a particularly intimidating stretch of rapids. Or if you'd rather stay grounded, consider the Bear's Ring, an 80-kilometer park hike.

Explore...

Vaasa's art museums. This port city on the west coast of Finland is home to the Tikanoja art museum, which houses Finnish art from the 19th and 20th centuries as well as more international works from the likes of Matisse and Picasso.

See the country on a "reindeer safari." Visit a local reindeer farm and learn how to harness a reindeer to a sleigh. Then set off on an adventure through the Finnish forests.

Shop...

Esplanadi (Helsinki). This Helsinki central park houses some of Finland's more well-known design houses and fashion shops.

Stockmann (Helsinki). Find just about anything - clothes, toys, sporting goods - in this seven-story department store in Finland's capital city.

This is provided for informational purposes only. Endless Vacation Rentals does not endorse any of the resort activities, guides, vendors or service providers described. It is the individual’s responsibility to investigate the safety and suitability of any activity, and the credentials and fitness of any guide, vendor or service provider. Endless Vacation Rentals expressly denies any liability for engaging in any activity, and for using any guide, vendor or services provider, that may be mentioned or described in any Endless Vacation Rentals advertisement or publication. Additional fees and restrictions may apply to any activity or service.