National park - thisisFINLAND

Spending an idyllic week in a Finnish national park, on a shepherding holiday

In several of Finland’s national parks, grazing sheep and cows help maintain traditional landscapes. Holiday-goers can enjoy a week surrounded by natural beauty while looking after the animals.

Life & society National park

Nature is for everyone: Finland adds to accessibility at national parks and nature areas

Recent years have seen numerous improvements in accessibility in the great outdoors at national parks and nature areas. Dozens of accessible trails are available in regions all over Finland.

Life & society National park

Natural attraction: Finland’s national parks draw people to popular peaks and hidden gems

The dozens of national parks spread across Finland receive about 3.5 million visitors annually, but the numbers are unevenly distributed. While the quieter parks are farther off the beaten track, that only increases their charm.

Life & society Nature

North of the Arctic Circle, Finland’s 41st national park helps preserve wilderness and natural splendour

With a vast landscape of peaks, lakes, forests, ridges and gorges, Salla National Park offers visitors summer and winter activities ranging from hiking and biking to skiing and snowshoeing. It’s also easy to find peace and quiet.

Life & society Environment

Peatland restoration strengthens Finland’s biodiversity

Increased government funding is good news for efforts to restore some of the country’s most widespread and important natural habitats. Put on your boots and step with us into the swamps of the Finnish countryside (article includes slideshow).

Life & society Environment

Picture this: All 40 Finnish national parks

Slideshow: From the Baltic islands to the Arctic highlands, photojournalist Tea Karvinen’s inspiring book compiles beautiful images and personal impressions of all of Finland’s 40 national parks. [Editor’s update: As of June 1, 2022, there are now 41 national parks. The newest is Salla, in northeastern Finland.]

Life & society Environment

Jubilee park protects Finnish treasures

Finland’s 40th national park, Hossa protects lovely lakes, wild forests and fascinating prehistoric relics. It first opened in 2017, just in time to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Finnish independence.

Life & society Environment

Endangered Finnish seals get winter help from locals

A Finnish nature lover shows us what his winter looks like: shovelling snow on a lakeshore to help the rare Saimaa ringed seal overcome problems caused by climate change.