Four hidden gems in Finnish Lakeland

Majestic manors. Tantalizing truffles. Curious kalakukko. These are a just a few of the lesser-known treats in store for you during a visit to Lakeland, a glorious area of the country that’s dotted with lush blue lakes and covered in thick forests. While the winters here are freezing, they’re known for outdoor fun like snowshoeing and skating. Summers in this region, on the other hand, are renowned for an array of world-class festivals and cultural events. There’s no need to stick with one season or the other, though – many of the hidden gems on this list are accessible year-round.

While Lakeland offers an array of adrenaline-spiking activities, roaming around the gardens and interiors of old Finnish manor houses can be equally stimulating. One of the region’s pearls is located in Mikkeli, a 2,5-hour drive from Helsinki. That’s where you’ll find Tertti Manor, a working farm. In the summer, the farm’s gardens bloom with fruit, flowers, vegetables, and herbs. Winter, meanwhile, features the peace and silence of plenty of snow, perfect for a day away from the city.

And Tertti isn’t the only intriguing manor in this area. Another gem is Wehmaa Manor near Lake Saimaa. Take a day trip to this attraction for a taste of Old World elegance, complete with rose textiles, floral wallpaper and traditional afternoon tea served British-style. With over 50 varieties to choose from, guests at this beautiful manor are sure to find their perfect sip.

The Lakeland region is overflowing with local delicacies that are best enjoyed right at the farm door. One example is the aforementioned Wehmais TeaHouse (at Wehmaa Manor), which is one of four Saimaa Gastronomy destinations. Another is Tertti Manor’s high-quality Finnish cuisine, which has charmed guests like composer Oskar Merikanto and President Urho Kekkonen. And a third is historic Hannula farm in Hauho, where the Iloranta family has lived for more than a hundred years. There, guests can enjoy homemade organic food in a gorgeous natural setting that’s earned the Sustainable Travel Finland label.

But a fourth and equally worthy destination is Tervamäki Organic Farm, located in the village of Sumsa in Sotkamo. The farmhouse has been restored to its original appearance, and visitors are encouraged to acquaint themselves with traditional farm work, tools and animal husbandry. And don’t forget the food! At the very least, any visit to the farmhouse should include a homemade breakfast or lunch (available upon request). Guests can also purchase organic produce from the farm shop.

Nothing screams “local” like a Finnish marketplace! Found in any city, these lively town squares boast delicious produce, traditional music, local folklore and constant conversation. The Lakeland region, for example, features amazing marketplaces in both Mikkeli and Savonlinna. In Mikkeli, the market truly comes to life during the warmer months, featuring table after table of local delicacies. Try the region’s most iconic food, kalakukko, a meat pie-like creation that’s best served hot with a cup of coffee and a little live music from the market’s accordion players. But be prepared to have a chat while you’re there: Mikkeli is part of the South Savo region, which is known for its culture of small-talk – something that’s virtually non-existent in the rest of the country.

While mushrooms can be found virtually everywhere in Finland, it’s always nice to have pleasant, knowledgable company when foraging. Hotel Punkaharju’s owner, Saimi Hoyer, is some of the best. The Finnish supermodel and television personality launched the hotel approximately five years ago and since then, has been dedicated to serving delicious food alongside wonderful nature in a heritage-rich setting. While the restaurant is worth a visit, the real draw here is Hoyer’s three-hour mushroom excursions. Offered between May and October, these tours can be conducted in Finnish, English or Italian and include information on where to hunt for mushrooms, what to know about them (warning, some are lethal!) and what to look for while in the woods. All experience levels are welcome to join and tours can be tailored to the participant’s level. Prices start at 60€ per person, and who knows? You might get your hands on a truffle!