Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Åland
The Åland islands are the most bicycle-friendly region in Finland, and the most popular
region for bicycle tours. The flat, scenic terrain, manageable distances, network of ferries
and general absence of traffic make the archipelago ideal.
Southern Finland
Southern Finland has more traffic than other parts of the country, but with careful planning
you can find quiet roads that offer pleasant scenery. Around Turku, the Archipelago route
offers excellent coastal scenery and island-hopping.
Karelia & Northeastern Finland
Two themed routes cover the whole eastern frontier, from the south to Kuusamo in the
north. Runon ja Rajan tie (Poem and Border Rte) consists of secondary sealed roads, and
passes several typical Karelian villages before ending in Lieksa. Some of the smallest and
most remote villages along the easternmost roads have been lumped together to create the
Korpikylien tie
(Road of Wilderness Villages). This route starts at Saramo village in north-
ern Nurmes and ends at Hossa in the northeastern Kainuu region.
A recommended loop takes you around Lake Pielinen, and may include a ferry trip
across the lake. Another good loop is around Viinijärvi, west of Joensuu.
Western Finland
This flat region, known as Pohjanmaa, is generally good for cycling, except that distances
are long. The scenery is mostly agricultural, with picturesque wooden barns amid fields of
grain in this breadbasket of Finland. The 'Swedish Coast' around Vaasa and north to
Kokkola is the most scenic part of this area.
Winter Sports
Winter's a wonderful time to get active in Finland. For most activities, the best time is in
March and April; you get a decent amount of light, and temperatures are more acceptable.
