Content
Have you ever heard of Finnish Lakeland, also known as the Finnish Lake District? In autumn, this part of Finland transforms into a fairytale landscape filled with deep red, orange and golden hues, also known as the magical ruska season. With over 40,000 lakes, endless forests and scattered islands, it’s one of the most peaceful and untouched regions in Europe. Lake Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland, is the perfect base for hiking, cycling, wellness and discovering local cuisine. During my trip, I felt completely immersed in nature, surrounded by vast waters, colorful forests and the warmth of Finnish traditions like sauna and seasonal food. In this article, I’ll share my personal tips to experience Finnish Lakeland at its best in autumn.
The Finnish Lake District in autumn: nature and relaxation
The Finnish Lakeland, also called the Finnish Lake District, is the largest lake district in Europe. A vast labyrinth of lakes, islands and rivers stretches beneath endless forests. In autumn, the region transforms into a fairytale of colors: fiery reds, oranges and golden ochres contrast with the first morning frost or a light dusting of snow on the treetops.
The lakes in Finnish Lakeland offer plenty of year-round activities, from canoeing and boating to fishing, paddleboarding and ice skating once the first ice forms. The surrounding forests are perfect for hiking in any season, but in late summer and autumn, picking wild berries and mushrooms is a must. Not only a typically Finnish pastime, it’s also a fun way to enjoy the vibrant autumn colors and the peacefulness of the landscape.
How do you get to the Finnish Lake District?Â
The Finnish Lake District is a few hours' drive from Helsinki, so it is ideal to combine your visit with a flight to Helsinki and a rental car from Sunnycars, fully all-in insured. So you can discover all the highlights of the Lake District at your own pace.
Tip: The best time to visit Finnish Lakeland is between late September and early November. During this period, the days are shorter, the autumn colors are at their most intense, and the sunsets are truly breathtaking. It’s the perfect season for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
1. Explore Lake Saimaa in the fall: Finland's largest lake
Lake Saimaa is Finland's largest lake and, together with thousands of surrounding lakes, it forms the heart of Finland's lake district. The largest lake, with an area of 1,377 square kilometers, is called the Great Saimaa. Here you'll find the purest nature combined with amazing gastronomy, historical sights and numerous spa and wellness opportunities.Â
A typical Finnish lakeside cottage, like the one pictured below, is often tucked away among lush greenery. Many Finns own a summer cottage on Lake Saimaa, usually with a sauna. With over 3 million saunas for 5.5 million people, the sauna is more than a place to relax, it’s a true symbol of Finnish culture.
Beyond the sauna, picking wild berries and mushrooms is a beloved late summer activity. Why pay for blueberries at the supermarket when they grow abundantly all around you? Legend has it that each Finn could gather up to 100 kilograms of berries a year, a testament to the vast, pristine nature of Finnish Lakeland.
2. Relax like a Finn: sauna and wellness in the Finnish Lake DistrictÂ
If you want to truly unwind in Finnish Lakeland, do it like the Finns: embrace the holy trinity of cottage, lake, and sauna. This combination of nature, tranquility, and warmth is a guaranteed boost for your well-being.
At the heart of Finnish Lakeland, rural life, known as mökkielämä, is all about slow living. For many Finns, the ultimate experience lies in simplicity: swimming in the lake, picking wild berries, and, of course, enjoying the sauna. In late summer and autumn, when the forests transform into a fairy-tale palette of colors, these wellness moments feel especially magical.
During my trip to Lake Saimaa and Finnish Lakeland, I discovered some incredible saunas and wellness resorts. From traditional Finnish saunas at lakeside cottages to luxury spas with views over autumnal forests and shimmering waters, this is the true Finnish way to relax: pure, peaceful, and deeply connected to nature.
Kuopion Saana: ultimate wellness at the lake in Kuopio
The most beautiful wellness resort in Finnish Lakeland that I visited is without a doubt Kuopion Saana in the city of Kuopio. This resort sits right on the lake and offers a perfect combination of relaxation, nature, and gastronomy.
The resort features multiple saunas, indoor and outdoor pools, and an excellent restaurant. What makes it truly special is that you can dive straight from the sauna into Lake Saimaa. A refreshingly invigorating experience, especially in early autumn.
All saunas at Kuopion Saana are mixed, and wearing a swimsuit is mandatory. My tip: visit on a weekday, when it’s quieter. This way, you can fully enjoy the peace, lake views, and serene atmosphere of the resort.
Also read: Discover the best activities around Lake Saimaa in winter
Covered by a thick blanket of snow, Lake Saimaa transforms into a Finnish winter wonderland, waiting to be explored even when the lake is frozen.
Health Resort Kruunupuisto: wellness and sauna experiences at Lake Saimaa
One of the most beautiful places for a wellness retreat in Finnish Lakeland is without a doubt Health Resort Kruunupuisto, located among picturesque forests and right on Lake Saimaa. It is one of the oldest hotels in the region. Originally, tuberculosis patients came here to recover, but today visitors mainly come for rehabilitation, wellness, and relaxation.
What makes Kruunupuisto truly special is its unique blend of nature and wellness. During my visit, I tried the ‘Sleep like a Seal’ experience: on the resort’s wooden terrace, you crawl into a sleeping bag on a lounger for a brief zen moment. Lying there, you feel like a seal, surrounded by fresh air, the scent of pine, and the gentle sounds of the lake. It's pure relaxation. In addition, Kruunupuisto offers multiple saunas, spa facilities, and plenty of opportunities to unwind in nature.Â
3. Take a boat ride through the Linnansaari National Park
One of the most memorable excursions in Finnish Lakeland is a boat trip through Linnansaari National Park, situated in the heart of Lake Saimaa. This vast park is made up of hundreds of small islands, forming an impressive archipelago. It is also the only place in the world where you can spot the rare Saimaa ringed seal.Â
During my boat trip to Oravi, the main island, I enjoyed coffee by a fireplace and sampled voisilmäpullat: sweet rolls with sugar and cardamom. Afterwards, I hiked the scenic nature trails through the heritage landscape. The park is well maintained and offers plenty of opportunities to soak in the peace and quiet of Finnish Lakeland.
Uniquely, you can also camp for free in Linnansaari National Park, provided you respect conservation rules. This allows you to truly immerse yourself in nature and experience the magic of autumn in Lake Saimaa, when the forests and lakes transform into a picturesque play of colors.
Tip: for all boat trips, activities, and additional inspiration, you can check out Oravi Village’s Instagram page.
4. Embark on a culinary adventure in Finnish Lakeland
Finnish Lakeland is not only a paradise for nature lovers and wellness enthusiasts, but also a dream destination for foodies. During my trip, I discovered so many delicious local specialties that it was hard to decide where to start.
A must-try are Karelian patties: savory treats made with rye dough and filled with salty rice pudding. This delicacy originates from Northern Savo and is a traditional Finnish dish that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Finnish Lakeland.
The culinary highlight for me, however, was the fresh salmon at Ruoke Holiday Village, served by a traditional fireplace. It was perhaps the most flavorful salmon I have ever tasted. The combination of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, a cozy atmosphere, and a stunning lakeside setting made the dinner truly unforgettable.
Tip: At Ruoke Holiday Village, you can enjoy delicious local dishes by the lake every week. On Wednesdays, salmon grilled over an open fire at the beach house is on the menu, served with homemade potato salad and pancakes. On Thursdays, a pit roast with pork and lamb is offered, including vegetables, salad, and dessert. Reservations are required. View the full weekly program and book here.
5. Immerse yourself in Finnish city life in Kuopio
After all the hiking, boating, and wellness in Finnish Lakeland, it’s wonderful to experience some culture and city life too. Situated on the scenic shores of Lake Kallavesi, Kuopio is a vibrant student town and the cultural hub of the North Savo region.
Must-see sights include Kuopio’s Market Hall and Puijo Peak. You’ll also find the previously mentioned Kuopion Saana wellness resort here, making it perfect for combining city exploration with relaxation.
Kuopio is also a foodie’s paradise. The city is renowned for its gastronomy and is home to the famous Lignell & Piispanen distillery. Recommended dining spots include Luoto (yes, it even has a sauna!) and Isä Camillo, a charming restaurant housed in a historic bank building.
Tip: Spending a night in Kuopio? For a comfortable stay in the city center, Sokos Hotel Puijonsarvi is an excellent choice.
Kuopio’s Market Hall: A must-visit spot in Finnish Lakeland
Built in the Art Nouveau style and dating back to 1902, Kuopio’s Market Hall houses around 30 stalls selling local products from Northern Savo, ranging from fresh bread and pastries to berries and fish. It’s a cozy spot for a cup of coffee, even on chilly days, and is open year-round six days a week.
Puijo Peak: An Iconic lookout tower in Finnish Lakeland
The iconic Puijo Lookout Tower stands 75 meters tall, rising over 200 meters above Lake Kallavesi, and offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding nature. Even in fog or rain, the vistas remain breathtaking, and the landscape takes on a magical, mysterious charm.
The best places to stay around Lake Saimaa and the Finnish Lake District
Want to fully experience Finnish Lakeland in the fall? Choosing the right place to stay is key. Around Lake Saimaa, you’ll find a variety of beautiful resorts and cottages, each with its own charm and offering opportunities for relaxation, nature activities, and local gastronomy.
The Sahanlahti Resort on the shores of Lake SaimaaÂ
A top recommendation is Sahanlahti Resort, located in an idyllic setting on the shores of Lake Saimaa in Puumala. Housed in a historic sawmill dating back to 1765, the resort combines rich history with modern comforts and stunning natural surroundings. Sahanlahti’s restaurant is part of the Saimaa Gastronomy Network, focusing on locally sourced ingredients. From freshly caught halibut to cranberries picked the same day, here you can truly taste the purity of Finnish Lakeland.
Pistohiekka Resort in Puumala
For a stay surrounded by nature, Pistohiekka Resort is perfect during the Ruska season. Located in the Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark, it offers direct access to forests and lakes. Here, you can hike, kayak, cycle, fish, and sail in complete tranquility while enjoying the stunning autumn colors and the peacefulness of Finnish Lakeland.
Luxury and design at Kanava Resort in Oravi
Those seeking luxury and design should stay at Kanava Resort in the village of Oravi, right at the mouth of the Oravi Canal. The architect-designed cottages combine comfort with an idyllic waterside location. Autumn is the perfect time for a peaceful stay with panoramic views of the lakes and colorful forests.
From Lakeland to Lapland: discover Finland in any season
Finnish Lakeland may be at its quietest in autumn, but it's probably no surprise that Finland is just as magical in winter. In our article on winter in Levi and Ylläs we take you to the far north, where snowy landscapes, saunas and winter adventures take center stage.
Do you want to experience the Lake Saimaa area in winter? Then also read our article on the best winter activities on and around Lake Saimaa for tips on activities, saunas and special winter accommodations. This way you will discover Finland in a totally different way, regardless of the season!
A tailor-made trip to Finland
Want to explore Finland’s Lake District and southern Finland in the fall? In this region, careful planning and a well-crafted itinerary make all the difference. We can help you design a personalized trip to Finland tailored to your interests, pace, and budget. Think charming lakeside accommodations, relaxing saunas, local restaurants, and activities like hiking, kayaking, and berry or mushroom picking, everything you need to make your late summer or autumn trip truly unforgettable.
Naomi van Hagen
Curious, creative and passionate about travel, I’m always on the lookout for unique destinations where culture, gastronomy and adventure come together. As a travel blogger, I share personal stories and insider tips from countries like Brazil, Greece, Indonesia, Thailand and Peru, from hidden gems and rich traditions to unforgettable culinary experiences. My blogs are based on real travel experiences and in-depth local knowledge. Ready to plan your own adventure? As a personal travel consultant, I’ll help you create a tailor-made trip that perfectly suits your travel dreams.
The 7 Best Beaches in Aruba: Our Favorite Beaches & Hidden Gems
August 13, 2026
7 Best Things to Do in Tirana, Albania
July 22, 2026
More Finland? Be inspired!
Finland
April 7, 2026
Finland
March 25, 2026
Finland
December 19, 2025
