Finland always captivates nature lovers with its unparalleled beauty. From serene lakes to dense wilderness, this country holds a charm that leaves anyone in awe. After years of traveling around the world, Finland has become one of my favorite places to return to and enjoy the peace amidst nature. Nothing beats the sensation of walking between towering green trees or standing by a tranquil lake while breathing in the fresh air unique to Finland. Every corner of its nature holds its own wonder, and I will share with you some of the most memorable natural tourist destinations in Finland.

From wild National Parks to large lakes, Finland is a paradise for those seeking an escape from busy city life. I still vividly remember stepping into Pyhä-Luosto National Park, feeling the cool mountain breeze, and taking in the stunning landscapes surrounding me. The same goes for the charm of Archipelago National Park, offering views of small islands scattered across clear blue seas. These experiences created unforgettable memories, and here are 8 natural tourist destinations in Finland that every nature lover should visit.

Nuuksio National Park is a perfect destination to escape the hustle and bustle of Helsinki. Just a few kilometers from the capital, this park offers lush pine forests, small lakes, and challenging hiking trails. It feels like being in a different world every time I walk through the towering trees, listening to the birds singing in the distance. It’s the perfect place for meditating in nature.

The views at Koli National Park are absolutely breathtaking. Standing atop Ukko-Koli peak, I could see the vast expanse of Lake Pielinen, surrounded by green hills. Every time I’m there, I feel incredibly small in the grandeur of Finland’s nature. The park is also famous for its autumn beauty, where the leaves turn into a sea of orange, yellow, and red.

Oulanka National Park offers a unique landscape with winding rivers, deep canyons, and majestic waterfalls. I will never forget the sound of rushing water at Kiutaköngäs waterfall, one of the main attractions of this park. The park is also famous for the Karhunkierros Trail, a legendary 82-kilometer hiking route that takes visitors through Finland’s stunning natural scenery.

Lake Saimaa is the largest lake in Finland, and spending time on its shores is a soothing experience. I once went boating on its calm blue waters, surrounded by small islands and untouched forests. The lake is also home to the Saimaa ringed seal, a very rare species that can only be found here. This place is truly a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.

Pyhä-Luosto National Park is one of the most stunning places I’ve ever visited. With a landscape consisting of old-growth forests and rugged mountains, this park offers an incredibly peaceful atmosphere. Every time I hike one of the trails here, I feel a closeness to nature that is rarely found elsewhere. The view from the peaks of Pyhä and Luosto is breathtaking, especially at sunset when the sky turns golden.

Archipelago National Park consists of thousands of small islands scattered across the Baltic Sea. When I was there, I often spent time sailing from one island to another, enjoying the clear sea views and the mesmerizing rocky coastlines. The place is also very quiet and secluded, making it ideal for those who want to experience nature’s tranquility.

Urho Kekkonen National Park offers vast, untouched wilderness. I particularly enjoy hiking here, especially in the autumn when the entire landscape turns into a stunning golden hue. This park is also one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, a truly magical natural phenomenon. Standing in the quiet night, watching the sky illuminated by the aurora borealis, is an experience I will never forget.

With towering mountains and deep valleys, Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park offers equally stunning views. I often feel like I’m in another world when hiking in this park, especially in the winter when the entire landscape is covered in white snow. This park is also famous for having the cleanest air in Europe, making every breath feel fresher and more refreshing.

For those of you who love nature and want to explore more tourist destinations in Europe, be sure to add 20 Breathtaking Natural Tourist Destinations in Europe to your travel dream list.