Icy weather and perhaps Northern Lights (Aurora) are probably what most Singaporeans would associate Finland with. But unknown to many, the Scandinavian country, which is located right on top of the Northern hemisphere, experiences the four seasons with boosts charming landscapes paralleled by few.
From winter-skiing (a national past-time) and cosy cottage stays to the spectacular views of the summer sun (that never sets) and autumn foliage, Finland has it all.
Winter
Winter is the longest season in the year – about 120 days. It can get very cold, with temperatures hitting -30°C – 0°C. Snowfall begins in early December and melts during March or April.
For the Finnish, the chilly temperature in Winter offers a fantastic time for outings. As the country has a dry climate, it is not as cold as the damper (and hence colder) countries of Central Europe.
Skiing in Lapland
Lapland (the northernmost region) is home to some of the biggest ski resorts in Finland for skiers of all skill levels. Skiing here is very different from what you can expect in Southeast Asia, and it might be a little tricky for first-timers. Finland’s ski resorts are perfect for you to get started, as they are less crowded than most ski resorts in Europe.
If skiing is not for you, there are other exciting activities for the whole family, such as snowmobiling, husky tours, reindeer rides, cross-country skiing, ice-fishing and snowshoeing.
A Dip in Ice Water
Swimming in the winter? We are not joking. It is a tradition in Finland and an enjoyable morning exercise for the elderly. Of course, it is gaining popularity among the younger few. After an initial icy shock, your body starts warming up and ramps up blood circulation, boosting energy levels even when you are back on land. Morning swims in winter do wonders to your body!
Spring
Spring is the shortest season in Finland. Lasting some 45 to 60 days from March to May, the foliage starts to peek through as the snow melts. Spring is the most versatile season to visit, as you can still ski in the North and enjoy the season’s beauty down South.
Rent a Cottage by the Shore
As Finland is an archipelago with boasting breath-taking coastal scenes, renting a river or sea-side cottage is one of the best ways to relax, if you are someone who appreciates a peaceful scenic vacation. Take a dip in the waters or simply kick back and relax, and enjoy the thawing season.
Explore Nuuksio National Park
If you are in Capital Helsinki, you might want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city life and visit nearby Nuuksio National Park. The trail offers stunning views of the Haukkalampi Lake. Try camping under the stars in the serenity of the forest. Don’t forget to pick some fresh blueberries too!
Summer
Summer is yet another magical time for Finland, as it enjoys endless days, literally. For over two months, the sun does not set at all in Lapland while the Southern regions simply have a few hours of twilight. The temperature can soar as high as 32°C or drop to a cool 15 °C, making it a comfortable temperature range for many. Summer lasts from May to August.
Because of the endless days, Finns take the opportunities to do many activities at night, when the sunlight is a reddish hue, akin to sunset. This is why Finland is called the Land of the Midnight Sun.
Go for events in capital Helsinki
When the sun is up, there is no sleep in Finland. Summer music festivals and live events rule the land from Qstock in Oulu, Ilosaarirock in Joensuu and Ruisrock in Turku. It is a yearly summer tradition to hang out at these festivals – for the old and young – and even for tourists!
Visit Where Moomin Was Created
Tove Jansson is Finland’s most celebrated illustrator and creator of the children’s series Moomin. She loved the Pellinge Islands, where she spent most of her summers since childhood. She built a small cabin on a small Island, Klovharun, where she drew inspiration for her artwork.
You can visit Jansson’s cabin, discover her little quirks and her appreciation for the simple joys in life. Not one to chase after material things, her cabin is minimally decorated and exudes a rustic charm.
Alternatively, take a stroll in the idyllic woods with tall, picturesque trees, and bathe in the warm Midnight sunlight.
Autumn
Autumn in Finland is known as “ruska”, when an explosion of colours reigns the forests. Tree leaves turn into vibrant hues of red, yellow and brown, signalling the turn of the seasons. Neither too cold nor too hot, the temperature range is a comfortable 2-15°C. It’s the perfect weather to go hiking in the idyllic Finnish forests, or to simply have a cosy afternoon in one of the villas.
Visit Lake Saimaa
Lake Saimaa is the fourth largest freshwater lake in Europe, connecting many of the larger towns in Lakeland. Its sparkling, pure waters are dotted with over 15,000 islands, making it a winding labyrinth filled with breath-taking scenery. In autumn, it is especially beautiful, with autumnal trees surrounding its perimeter. The Olavinlinna castle, located on an island in Lake Saimaa, is a three-tower 15th century castle. If you are interested in a piece of Finnish culture and history, do not miss it! If you are lucky, you might even hear an aria inside.
Catch the Northern Lights
Contrary to popular belief, the Northern Lights are best watched during autumn or spring, and not winter. These are seasons when the earth’s orientation towards the sun maximises the probability of solar flares interacting with the planet’s magnetic field to generate the phenomenon. Finland is also one of the best places on Earth to view these magical lightshows. Usually, the Northern Lights are green but occasionally, you might see pinkish hues dancing around in the dark sky.
