Holiday homes & vacation rentals in Finland

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Finland: The Land of a Thousand Lakes

Finland is a country of striking contrasts – from the vibrant, design-focused streets of Helsinki to the quiet, snow-capped mountains of Lapland. Often called the “Land of a Thousand Lakes” (there are actually around 188,000), it is a place where nature and modern life exist in a unique, quiet harmony.

A Brief History

Finland’s history is defined by its location between East and West.

Early Era

The region was settled after the last Ice Age (around 9000 BC) and was home to hunter-gatherers and later the Sami people.

Swedish rule (12th century – 1809)

For almost 700 years, Finland was part of the Kingdom of Sweden. This period had a profound influence on Finnish law, religion (Lutheranism), and social structures.

The Russian Grand Duchy (1809–1917)

After the Finnish War, Finland became an autonomous part of the Russian Empire. This era saw a rise in Finnish nationalism and the publication of the national epic, the Kalevala.

Independence (1917–present)

Finland declared independence during the Russian Revolution. Despite the hardships of the Winter War and the Continuation War during World War II, Finland remained sovereign and transformed itself into one of the world's most stable, wealthy, and happy democracies.

Nature and Landscapes

Nature is not just a destination in Finland; it is a way of life.

Archipelago

The southwest coast is home to thousands of rocky islands.

Lakeland

A massive labyrinth of blue water and green forests in central Finland.

Lapland

The northernmost region, home to the midnight sun in summer and the polar night (Kaamos) in winter.

Freedom of the Wild

A unique law allows everyone to roam freely in nature, picking berries and mushrooms, as long as they respect the environment.

Typical foods

Finnish cuisine is hearty, seasonal and relies on fresh ingredients from the forest and sea.

Karjalanpiirakka: Karelian pasties - a thin rye crust filled with rice porridge, usually topped with munavoi (egg butter).

Ruisleipä: Dark, sour rye bread; the ultimate Finnish staple.

Lohikeitto: A creamy salmon soup with potatoes, carrots and lots of fresh dill.

Poronkäristys: Sautéed reindeer, typically served with mashed potatoes and tart lingonberry jam.

Leipäjuusto: "Bread cheese", a crunchy cheese often served warm with cloudberry jam.

Salmiakki: Salty black liquorice, which Finns love and which most tourists find... interesting.

Activities and lifestyle

Sauna

There are over 3 million saunas in Finland (one for every two people). It is a place of physical and mental cleansing.

Winter sports

Cross-country skiing, ice fishing and snowmobiling are standard. In the north you can go poroajo (reindeer sledding) or dog sledding.

Summer bliss

Finns go to their mökki (summer cottage) to swim, barbecue and enjoy yötön yö (the nightless night).

Shopping and Design

Finland is world-famous for its functional and minimalist design.

Marimekko: Known for its bold, colorful patterns (like the Unikko poppy).

Iittala & Arabia: Iconic glass and ceramics found in almost every Finnish home.

Mumitum: Figurines created by Tove Jansson; you’ll find everything from mugs to towels at Mumitema.

Market Halls (Kauppahalli): Historic indoor markets in cities like Helsinki, Turku, and Tampere are the best places to find local delicacies and crafts.