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When we think of summer holidays, the shimmering blue waters of the Mediterranean often come to mind. The picturesque beaches of Spain, Italy, or Greece, dotted with sunbathers and peppered with yachts, have long been the postcard-perfect image of a summer getaway. But what if next year during European summer, instead of joining the crowded beaches and sweltering heat, you opt for a place where tranquility reigns, the air is fresh, and the waters beckon you for a peaceful swim? Enter Finland’s Lakeland - an underrated gem that may just surprise you as the perfect summer escape. Let’s explore why Lakeland, Finland, could be the relaxing retreat you didn’t know you needed.
Image: Jarvisydan
1. Escape the Heat – Finland’s Refreshing Summers
Mediterranean summers have always been synonymous with sun-soaked days, but there’s a fine line between sun-kissed and sun-baked. The intense heat waves in the Mediterranean region have become the norm, with temperatures often soaring above 40°C (104°F). If you’re not used to the scorching heat or simply want to avoid turning into a human puddle, Finland offers a far more agreeable alternative.
Lakeland’s summer temperatures sit comfortably around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), providing the perfect balance of warmth and refreshment. You can enjoy long, sunny days without the sweltering exhaustion that can come with Mediterranean holidays. With cooling lake breezes, the only thing sizzling in Finland is the sauna you’ll be relaxing in after a dip in crystal-clear waters.
Image: Visit Finland/Mikko Nikkinen
2. Overcrowded Beaches vs. Your Private Lakeshore
There’s nothing worse than setting up your beach towel on a Mediterranean shore, only to find yourself surrounded by crowds of tourists vying for the same square metre of sand. With the surge in travel, some of the most popular destinations are now grappling with overtourism, meaning longer waits, packed restaurants, and a constant stream of noise and movement. It’s a far cry from the relaxing beach holiday we all dream of.
In contrast, Finland’s Lakeland offers seclusion that’s hard to find in Europe these days. Imagine having your own private stretch of lakeshore, where the only sound you hear is the gentle lapping of water and the distant call of a loon. Lakeland, with its vast network of more than 188,000 lakes, offers unparalleled tranquillity. You can enjoy swimming, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the water without being surrounded by throngs of other holidaymakers. It’s the kind of serene summer holiday that leaves you truly refreshed, away from the hustle and bustle.
Image: Visit Finland/Harri Tarvainen
3. Nature’s Playground: Activities for Everyone
Sure, the Mediterranean is known for its crystal-clear waters, but it often lacks the diversity of landscapes that Finland’s Lakeland boasts. Here, you can swim in pristine lakes, hike through forests, or kayak around islands, all in a single day. The abundance of nature reserves and national parks offers endless opportunities to explore the outdoors.
For adventure lovers, Lakeland has plenty to offer -kayaking across tranquil lakes, stand-up paddleboarding, and exploring the region’s many hiking trails are just the beginning. Prefer a slower pace? Fishing, birdwatching, or simply relaxing in a lakeside cottage with a good book could be your perfect summer itinerary.
In Mediterranean hot spots, you may find yourself sticking to coastal areas to escape the inland heat, limiting your exploration to tourist-packed towns. In Lakeland, Finland, every corner of the landscape beckons with opportunities to reconnect with nature.
Image: Visit Finland/Vilma Lehtonen
4. Sauna, Anyone?
While Mediterranean holidays are often about beach bars and sunbathing, Finland brings a more wellness-focused approach to summer relaxation. And nothing says "Finnish summer" quite like a lakeside sauna experience. After a long day of exploring or lounging by the lake, you can unwind in a traditional Finnish sauna, one of the country’s most beloved cultural practices.
There’s a certain magic to the sauna ritual in Lakeland. Picture this: you step out of a hot, wooden sauna and plunge into the cool, clear lake right outside your door. It’s not just refreshing; it’s revitalising, awakening your senses and soothing your soul. This simple yet luxurious experience makes a Finnish summer truly special. While Mediterranean vacations might offer spas, Lakeland offers the original natural wellness retreat.
Image: Visit Finland/Harri tarvainen
5. Local Culture and Cuisine with a Twist
The Mediterranean may be famous for its food and wine, but Lakeland Finland brings its own unique culinary delights to the table. At the heart of this is Lake Saimaa, named the European Region of Gastronomy for 2024. The region is renowned for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and sustainability-driven culinary practices.
One of the standout highlights is the D.O. Saimaa label, which ensures the highest quality of locally grown and produced food, from fish freshly caught in the surrounding lakes to berries and mushrooms harvested from the forests. Dining in Lakeland means enjoying meals that reflect the purity and simplicity of Finnish nature. Whether you're sampling local delicacies in a lakeside restaurant or enjoying a meal cooked over an open fire, the culinary experience in Lakeland is as refreshing as its landscapes.
Image: Sahanlahti
6. Midnight Sun Magic
While Mediterranean summers are known for their long days, nothing quite compares to the Midnight Sun in Lakeland. Here, during the height of summer, the sun doesn’t fully set, meaning you can enjoy extended daylight well into the evening. It’s a surreal experience to find yourself sitting by a lake at midnight with the sun still lingering on the horizon.
The endless daylight opens up possibilities for late-night swims, hikes, or even a midnight sauna session. The soft, golden light creates an almost dreamlike atmosphere that’s impossible to replicate in more southerly destinations.
Image: Visit Finland/Mikko Nikkinen
7. Sustainable Travel – A Breath of Fresh Air
Another key reason why Finland’s Lakeland should be on your radar is its commitment to sustainability. While the Mediterranean has struggled with overtourism, waste, and environmental strain, Finland leads the way in eco-friendly travel. The pristine landscapes you see today have been carefully preserved, and visitors are encouraged to respect the environment through sustainable tourism practices.
In Lakeland, you’ll find eco-conscious accommodations, local food producers who champion sustainability, and an overall ethos of caring for the natural world. For travellers looking to reduce their environmental footprint, this is a breath of fresh air - literally and figuratively.
Image: Visit Lakeland
8. The Finnish Way – Slowing Down and Unplugging
Finally, a holiday in Lakeland is not just about where you go, but how you experience it. Finland encourages visitors to slow down and truly connect with their surroundings. It’s not about ticking off tourist spots or rushing from one activity to the next. Instead, it’s about finding joy in simple pleasures: a peaceful morning swim, a leisurely walk through the forest, or watching the sunset (or not!) over the lake. While Mediterranean holidays can feel like a whirlwind of activities and sightseeing, a visit to Lakeland encourages you to unplug, unwind, and savour each moment.
Image: Sahanlahti
So, this summer, why not swap the crowded Mediterranean shores for the tranquil lakes of Finland? With its cooler temperatures, serene landscapes and endless opportunities for outdoor activities, Lakeland offers a refreshing alternative to the typical summer escape. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a break from the heat, Finland’s Lakeland could be just the oasis you’ve been searching for.
Check-out our Lakeland Collection on our website for holiday inspiration.
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