Magical Taiga Forest Hike with Lunch and Transportation

Great trip with our enthusiastic guide, Anette. We saw flora and fauna, including the mythical Paranvoi (look it up). Lunch was great. I wanted to see Finnish wilderness while I was there, and this was perfect.

This hike is far enough from Helsinki to skip most of the crowds, but close enough that you’re not losing half the day just getting there. The drive itself was actually pretty interesting, you get to see parts of rural Finland you’d never run into otherwise. Liesjärvi National Park itself was beautiful. Quiet lakes, dense taiga forest, and stillness you don’t get in the city. The hike was a good length. It was long enough to feel like you did something, but not so long it wears you out. It’s mostly flat with just a few small hills, so it’s manageable for anyone with average fitness. Even though we went on a holiday weekend, the trails and rest areas weren’t crowded at all. There’s bathroom access along the way too. Quintus, our guide, was great. Personable, easy to talk to, and clearly knew a lot about the area. We learned a good amount about the local plants and animals just from listening to him along the way. Lunch was a real highlight too, salmon soup cooked by the lake. Overall a relaxing, well-run day trip that doesn’t require any real hiking experience. Good option if you want to see something outside Helsinki without much hassle.

It was wonderful to get out of the city and into the countryside and national forest. Our guide led us on an easy path through the forest with frequent stops to explain the plants and geology. She provided a delicious hot traditional soup for lunch. The forest and lakes were breathtaking. We definitely enjoyed this outing.

This is a unique and wonderful way to experience the nature and beauty of Finland complete with traditional meal prorated over campfire. The description is 100% accurate. We had the best day with our guide “Annie”. We learned so much about the forest, about the connection of the Finnish people to nature and some great stories. The soup was exceptional and cooked over campfire just added to the experience. Important to add she is a great driver as well as chef. Very thoughtful to special dietary needs in group and making sure everyone was comfortable and enjoying themselves. No issues with distance or pace - perfect. Highly recommend!

I appreciated the opportunity to get to a park a bit further out. It was very peaceful. The guides were so enthusiastic about sharing their love of the forest. The only reason I gave it a 4 is I was looking for a bit more of a hike

The sights in the forest were enchanting and Annette embellished the trip by providing insight into the area in which we were hiking. Lunch was delicious and the crisp air was fresh.

Great experience. We just tried the Salmon soup recipe you gave us and it was excellent. Thank you.

Had a lovely day out with a small group, led by Geoff, who was really knowledgeable about all the flora and fauna of the national park, as well as Finland more generally. The lunch stop with a campfire was very atmospheric. The soup, rye bread and hot blueberry juice were all delicious - glad I have the recipe for the salmon soup! Overall a really great, relaxed walk, with lots to see and hear about along the way.

What a fabulous guide!! I’m not sure of her name so sorry, I think it was Maria - if that’s wrong. But today we were hosted by a brilliant human. She was passionate about her work, the forrest and nature. The chat was flowing, the salmon soup and pastry yummy!! And they catered for our allergies. Thanks.

Jeff did such an amazing job giving us a personable one-of-a-kind experience. He made sure everyone was comfortable and prepared for a day outdoors in chilly weather. The hike was beautiful and filled with discussions on local plant and animal life, Finnish traditions, and experiences. We had the opportunity to try local berries and he cooked a traditional lunch for the group. I would HIGHLY recommend making this a part of your Helsinki experience. Thank you Jeff and Taiga Times!