Finland is a country that boasts of an abundance of natural beauty, and its national parks are a testament to this fact. There are 40 national parks in Finland, covering an area of more than 10,000 square kilometers. Each park is unique in its own way, offering visitors a chance to experience Finland’s breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and rich cultural heritage. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top 10 most beautiful national parks in Finland.
1. Nuuksio National Park
Located just 30 kilometers from Helsinki, Nuuksio National Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers. The park features an extensive network of trails, stunning lakes and ponds, and beautiful forests that are home to a variety of wildlife, including lynx, elk, and flying squirrels.
2. Oulanka National Park
Oulanka National Park, situated in northern Finland, is known for its rugged terrain, crystal-clear rivers, and stunning waterfalls. The park is a popular destination for canoeing and rafting, and visitors can also go hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.
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3. Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park
Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park is one of the largest national parks in Finland, covering an area of over 1,000 square kilometers. The park is home to some of Finland’s most spectacular landscapes, including the Pallas fell, which is the highest point in western Lapland. Visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing in the park, as well as spotting reindeer and other wildlife.
4. Repovesi National Park
Repovesi National Park is located in southern Finland and is known for its stunning scenery, including rugged cliffs, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests. The park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and fishing, and visitors can also go canoeing and kayaking.
5. Koli National Park
Koli National Park, located in eastern Finland, is known for its breathtaking views of Lake Pielinen and the surrounding forests. The park is a popular destination for hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing, and visitors can also explore the traditional Finnish villages and cultural sites nearby.
6. Urho Kekkonen National Park
Urho Kekkonen National Park is located in Lapland and is one of the largest national parks in Finland, covering an area of over 2,500 square kilometers. The park is known for its rugged terrain, stunning landscapes, and diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing in the park, as well as spotting reindeer and other wildlife.
7. Seitseminen National Park
Seitseminen National Park is located in western Finland and is known for its stunning forests, crystal-clear lakes, and rich cultural heritage. The park is a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and camping, and visitors can also explore the traditional Finnish villages and cultural sites nearby.
8. Hossa National Park
Hossa National Park, located in eastern Finland, is known for its ancient rock paintings, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning landscapes. The park is a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and canoeing, and visitors can also explore the traditional Finnish villages and cultural sites nearby.
9. Riisitunturi National Park
Riisitunturi National Park, located in northern Finland, is known for its stunning landscapes, including snow-covered trees and frozen swamps. The park is a popular destination for winter activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. During summer, visitors can enjoy hiking and fishing in the crystal clear lakes. The park also offers the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights, making it a great destination for nature lovers and photographers.
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Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park
Pallas Yllästunturi National Park is situated in western Lapland and covers an area of 1020 km². The park is known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the park’s scenic hiking trails, admire the views from the mountain peaks, and participate in winter activities such as skiing and snowshoeing. The park is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including reindeer, moose, wolves, and lynx.
FAQs:
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- What is the best time to visit these national parks? The best time to visit these national parks is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and the days are long.
- Are there any dangerous animals in these national parks? While Finland is generally a safe country when it comes to wildlife, there are some animals that visitors should be aware of. Brown bears and wolves are the largest predators in Finland, and while they are rarely encountered, visitors should exercise caution when hiking or camping in national parks.
- Can visitors camp in these national parks? Yes, visitors can camp in designated camping areas in most national parks in Finland. However, there are restrictions on where and how to camp, so it’s important to check the park regulations before setting up a campsite.
- Do visitors need a permit to visit these national parks? No, visitors do not need a permit to visit national parks in Finland. However, some activities, such as fishing or hunting, may require a permit.
- What are some must-see attractions in these national parks? Each national park in Finland has its own unique features and attractions. Some must-see sights include the reindeer in Lapland, the Northern Lights in Urho Kekkonen National Park, and the giant trees in Hossa National Park.