North Karelia
Many people know Lapland, but few realize that here too—in the region of lakes and rivers—it is possible to enjoy extraordinary experiences similar to those in Lapland: husky excursions, the thrill of admiring the Northern Lights, and meeting Santa Claus in the Karelian Village.
However, what is truly recommended is to immerse oneself in more authentic experiences connected to local culture. And that is exactly the purpose here: to help those who want to discover a non-touristy Finland. As a travel consultant and tour leader since 2022, tailor-made solutions are offered for every season.
For information and bookings, contact:
info @ finlandiamo.com
ps: North Karelia is also easily reachable with reissukyyti or kimppakyyti
Heipatihei!
I´m Henrietta and that's how we greet each other here in the magnificent North Karelia. We are known as the "southerners" of Finland, as this region stands out for its unique character: our sociable, open, and friendly nature sets us apart from the rest of the country. I am Henrietta, your Italian guide to discovering the fascinating and little-known North Karelia.
I am half italian and half finnish and my goal is to introduce you the hidden gems of Finland: North Karelia. And give you also tips about my otherhometown: Rome.
I represent your Italian-Finnish point of reference.
A native speaker of both Italian and Finnish, having lived 20 years in Rome and 13 in Finland, I carry within me two souls and two cultures. I deeply love Italy, but it is here—among endless forests, silent lakes, and ancient traditions—that I have learned to love a wild and surprising land, guardian of a unique culture that feels as though it belongs to another time.
Services
Consulting services
Need help planning a trip to Finland? A personalized consulting service is available to create a tailor-made itinerary, recommend the best activities, and answer every question. From choosing destinations to handling practical details, every step is supported to turn travel dreams into reality.
Organization service
Exclusive trips, tailor-made for those who wish to experience Finland with style and maximum relaxation. From accommodation to logistics, from the most fascinating activities to the ideal times of year, everything is designed to reveal Finland in all its beauty.
Guided tours
There are places that are impossible to find without an expert guide who knows every corner and path. Others, although visible to everyone, go unnoticed because their meaning and history remain unknown. I will be the guide, offering an authentic perspective to create a unique and unforgettable experience.
Translation services
Bilingual from birth, offering support as an Italian-Finnish interpreter to help with communication wherever the location. A journey without language barriers and full of discoveries!
Accompaniment service
I will be a personal guide, accompanying in every activity and showcasing the typical traditions of Finland. I will be available 24 hours a day.
Transportation Service
I will be a personal guide, accompanying guests in every activity and showcasing the typical traditions of Finland. I will be available 24 hours a day.
Among the winter activities:
The Northern Lights
This phenomenon occurs throughout the year, but it is only visible during the dark months.
The snowmobile
Snowmobile excursions immersed in snowy forests
The husky excursion
Enjoy the silence and relaxation on a sled pulled by dogs
The trip with the horses
The Finnish horse is famous all over the world, and here it accompanies visitors in discovering the secrets of Finland.
Bathing in the lake
Taking a dip in the frozen lake alternated with the sauna is one of the most wonderful activities there is!
Skiing
Skiing in unspoiled nature to fully experience the soul of one of the most popular sports.
Snowboarding
Here in North Karelia it is possible to visit the oldest mountain in Europe and try snowboarding.
The typical Finnish cottage
Warm up in front of the fireplace in a typical Finnish cottage
Wild animals
Moose, wolves, bears, lynxes... Discover the wild animals of Finland
Among the summer activities:
Cottage
Relax surrounded by nature
E-bike
Bike routes among the main attractions
Grill in the shelter
The essence of Finnish culture and tradition is discovered by enjoying a drink or a snack in the shelter.
The Midnight Sun
An incredible phenomenon
Wild animals
Elks, wolves, bears, lynxes... Discover the wild animals of Finland
Mushrooms & Berries
Foraging for mushrooms and berries
The swim in the lake
Swimming in crystal-clear, clean waters
Sauna
Relax with Nordic traditions
Water sports
SUP board, canoe, kayak surrounded by some of the most unspoiled nature in Europe
Info and reservations
Looking to invest your budget in the best possible way, taking advantage of the most beneficial recommendations that only a local expert can offer?
Discover the magic of North Karelia
Did you know that Joensuu, the capital of North Karelia, is surrounded by vast forested areas and countless blue lakes where you can spot stunning wildlife? These picturesque, untouched landscapes are home to many animals such as bears, wolves, lynxes, eagles, cranes, and swans, as well as the rarest species of seal in the world. Birdwatching enthusiasts from around the globe come here to observe species that are hard to find elsewhere in Europe. Are you ready?
Here, in the Northeast of Finland, the Northern Lights are visible from August to May. Generated by the so-called solar winds, the auroras actually occur all year round, but the darkness of the night is needed to admire the phenomenal light show.
In Finlandia esiste il "jokamiehenoikeus", cioè il diritto di ogni uomo di beneficiare della natura e dei suoi frutti. Questo ci permette di appassionarci di natura, di raccogliere numerose specie diverse di bacche, funghi, persino di pescare e di dormire nei boschi, senza chiedere il permesso a nessuno. Mangiare i prodotti di stagione coltivati localmente è una scelta sostenibile dal sapore delizioso.
Testimonials
My husband and I relied on the expert advice of Finlandiamo (Henrietta), and it was the perfect choice. We visited wonderful places, stayed in a dream cabin, and had the reassurance of always being able to ask for support at any time. All of this took place at the beginning of September. We came back home eager to discover this area in winter as well—so we'll be in touch again soon!
Best of luck with your work—you truly deserve all the success it can bring you.
Chiara
Rosato
Henrietta is kind, helpful, and extremely supportive for anyone who wants to visit this part of Finland. Karelia is extraordinary from a naturalistic point of view, and for us coming from Italy, her support in finding the most suitable accommodation to experience Karelia's nature up close was truly valuable.
Roberto
Fiorentin
My partner and I spent a week in North Karelia: three days in the town of Joensuu and three days in a cottage in Koli National Park.
Unique places, dreamlike landscapes that are hard to find anywhere else. We had a wonderful holiday also thanks to the great professionalism of Henrietta, our guide.
A week surrounded by nature, lakes, sunsets, and breathtaking views.
The trip organization was perfect—top professionalism, real passion for what she does, and she truly knows how to share it.
Martina
Quaresima
My clients, even after witnessing the Northern Lights, were deeply moved by staying in a typical cottage surrounded by peaceful nature, tasting local dishes, relaxing in a traditional smoke sauna, or taking a dip in the region's crystal-clear and secluded waters.
But the real added value is how easily you can enjoy these extraordinary experiences thanks to a journey planned down to the smallest detail, in collaboration with local travel agencies: guide services, transport, and logistics—offering you a reliable point of reference (in both Italian and Finnish), always available whenever you need.
With dedication and care, I will accompany you into the heart of North Karelia, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the most authentic and unforgettable experiences this corner of paradise has to offer.
For information and bookings, contact me:
info@finlandiamo.com
Your cultural compass between Italy and Finland.
Are you planning an independent trip or looking for family-friendly accommodations? Are you eager to visit Finland during the summer-autumn season? Click here.
I'm here to provide the best tips to make your experience unique. Plan your winter holiday here.
If you are organizing a trip to Rome and you need a few tips from a local, click here.