Helsinki in 1 Day for Couples - Experience the silence of a snow‑covered Taiga forest
In Collaboration with Taiga Times Oy. Updated on February 12, 2026.
Full‑day winter nature walk from Helsinki to Liesjärvi National Park. Includes roundtrip transportation, a guided taiga hike, traditional Finnish‑style lunch around a campfire inside a wilderness hut, and time to explore the snow‑covered forest.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Taiga Times Oy, inspired by the tour Winter Wonderland Hike in a National Park. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Experience the silence of a snow‑covered Taiga forest
- Very few visitors during winter — peaceful trails
- Traditional Finnish‑style lunch around a warm campfire in a wilderness hut (Winter Kota)
- Professional wilderness guide and roundtrip transport from Helsinki
Itinerary
Day 1
Pick-up 09:00, return to Helsinki by 16:00. The group travels from Helsinki to Liesjärvi National Park, spends ~4.5 hours in the park for a guided hike, campfire lunch inside a wilderness hut, and additional exploration, then returns to Helsinki.
Depart from Helsinki – meeting point and boarding
Meeting point, meet at the Mannerheiminaukio 1H . Brief check‑in and immediate departure at 09:00. Please be on time; the vehicle departs promptly.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 5–10 minutes early to board — the vehicle leaves at 09:00.
- Use nearby restrooms before boarding; there are limited facilities during the transfer.
- Keep an easily accessible warm layer and your camera within reach for photos on the drive.
Arrival & orientation at Liesjärvi National Park
Arrive at Liesjärvi National Park. Guide presents the park map, safety briefing, and a short introduction to winter wildlife and track signs.
Tips from local experts:
- Follow the guide’s briefing — they’ll point out safe routes and local wildlife signs.
- Secure any loose items (gloves, hats) before starting the hike; wind can blow lighter items away.
- If you need winter boots from the guide, ask during this orientation so fittings don’t delay the hike.
Guided winter hike – first section
Easygoing, educational 2‑hour walk through the Taiga to observe winter nature, animal tracks, and forest features. Pace is gentle and suitable for walkers comfortable with snow underfoot.
Tips from local experts:
- Walk at the guide’s pace; there will be short stops to view animal tracks and take photos.
- If provided, use the winter boots or accessories offered by the guide for better traction on snow.
- Keep hands warm and dry; bring a thin pair of liner gloves under thicker gloves for flexibility when taking photos.
Lunch around the campfire inside a wilderness hut (Winter Kota)
Traditional Finnish‑style lunch served by the campfire inside a Winter Kota. Relax, warm up, and enjoy hot drink and dessert. (Special moment for couples: cozy campfire lunch together inside the hut.)
Tips from local experts:
- Inform the guide of any dietary restrictions before departure so the kitchen can accommodate you.
- Bring a small camera or phone — the campfire light and snow create particularly photogenic conditions.
- Respect hut fire rules and the guide’s instructions when approaching the campfire.
Post‑lunch exploration and return walk
Continue exploring the snow‑covered trails under towering spruces. Gentle walk back toward the meeting point where the vehicle waits for departure to Helsinki.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep to the group and follow the guide’s route back to the vehicle to avoid side trails.
- Use this time for quiet observation; the guide can point out recent animal signs and local plants.
- If you feel cold, inform the guide — there are short breaks and extra layers available if needed.
Return transfer to Helsinki and drop‑off
Board the vehicle for the return trip to Helsinki. Expected arrival at the original meeting point by 16:00.
Tips from local experts:
- Check you have all personal items before leaving the vehicle; the guide will do a final sweep.
- Phones may have limited battery in cold weather; keep them warm in an inner pocket for navigation or photos on arrival.
- If you’d like a quiet seat on the return, request it when boarding; couples often choose seats together toward the rear.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 4 |
| Total Places | 6 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Outdoor, Meal |
