Family Winter Adventure in Ruka-Kuusamo

A Day of Play and Finnish Delights

Today was a day of embracing both the playful and peaceful sides of Ruka-Kuusamo. It’s amazing how much joy you can pack into a single day when you’re surrounded by family and the stunning Finnish landscape. From theme park thrills to serene nature experiences, today was a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Burger Cafe & Bar Ruka. It’s quickly becoming a family favorite, and Sofia was especially excited. She loves their kid's burger. Maximilian and I opted for something a bit more traditional – I had to try the Poro Burger, featuring reindeer steak ! It was absolutely delicious, a true taste of Lapland. Maximilian went for the Tunturi Burger. The atmosphere was cozy, and the staff were incredibly friendly, making it a perfect start to our day. Refueled and ready, we set off for our first adventure: the Angry Birds Activity Park Kuusamon Tropiikki.


Discover Burger Cafe & Bar Ruka, where delicious burgers meet stunning natural beauty in the heart of Kuusamo.

Sofia was practically bouncing with excitement as we arrived at the Angry Birds Activity Park. I must admit, even Maximilian and I were curious to see what it was all about! The park is located within the Holiday Club Kuusamon Tropiikki, which seems like a fantastic place to stay for families. The park itself is a vibrant, energetic space filled with various activities suited for all ages. Sofia immediately gravitated towards the area designed for younger children, while Maximilian, ever the adventurous one, decided to tackle the parkour course. I watched Sofia navigate the colorful obstacles with a determined grin, her laughter echoing through the park. It was heartwarming to see her so engaged and happy. I even joined her for a while, rediscovering my own inner child! Maximilian, meanwhile, was surprisingly agile on the parkour course, reminding me of his rock climbing days back in Heidelberg. We spent a good few hours exploring the park, trying out everything from the adventure track to the scooter racing track. It’s safe to say we were all thoroughly entertained!


Experience the fun and excitement of Angry Birds Activity Park Kuusamon Tropiikki, where thrilling adventures await for the whole family in Finland's beautiful landscapes.

In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years. - Abraham Lincoln

After all that excitement, we were ready for a change of pace. We decided to have lunch at Polar Bar Ruka. It was a welcome break, offering a chance to recharge before our afternoon activity. The atmosphere was relaxed, and the food was just what we needed. We enjoyed some traditional Finnish fare, savoring the flavors of the region. With our bellies full and our spirits lifted, we embarked on our next adventure: a guided nature experience with Oulangan Taika Oy.


Experience exquisite dining at Polar Bar Ruka with stunning mountain views and delightful Finnish cuisine in a cozy winter retreat.

Oulangan Taika promised enchanting nature wonders, and they certainly delivered ! We chose a guided hiking tour to fully immerse ourselves in the Finnish wilderness. Our guide, a friendly local named Tommi, was incredibly knowledgeable about the area’s flora, fauna, and history. He led us through a stunning landscape of forests, rivers, and canyons, sharing fascinating stories and insights along the way. Sofia was captivated by the towering trees and the crystal-clear streams. She even spotted a few reindeer grazing in the distance! The air was crisp and clean, and the silence was broken only by the gentle sounds of nature. It was a truly serene and rejuvenating experience, a perfect contrast to the energetic morning we had at the Angry Birds park. Oulangan Taika offers a range of activities, including canoeing, fishing, and snowshoeing, so I'm definitely adding them to my list for future adventures.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Oulanka National Park with Oulangan Taika Oy, your guide to unforgettable outdoor adventures in Finland.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Ruka for dinner at the Arctic Boutique hotel & restaurant RUKAN KAARNA. This charming restaurant is known for its delicious local cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We indulged in a hearty meal of traditional Finnish dishes, savoring the flavors of the region. The Arctic Boutique Hotel itself looked incredibly inviting, blending modern comfort with rustic charm. It’s definitely a place I’d consider staying at on a future trip. After dinner, we decided to check out RUOK, a local burger bar known for its simple and delicious burgers made from fresh ingredients. It was the perfect way to end our day, enjoying some casual fare and soaking in the lively atmosphere.


Experience unparalleled comfort and authentic Finnish cuisine at Rukan Kaarna in stunning Kuusamo's Arctic wilderness.

Before heading back to our Ski-Inn RukaVillage, we stopped by RUOK ! The atmosphere was buzzing, and the burgers smelled amazing. I opted for a classic cheeseburger, while Maximilian tried one of their specialty burgers. Sofia enjoyed some fries. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with activity, laughter, and delicious food.


Experience the best of Finnish cuisine at RUOK, a must-visit restaurant in Kuusamo, known for its delicious dishes and inviting atmosphere.

Back at our accommodation, Sofia was fast asleep, dreaming of Angry Birds and reindeer. Maximilian and I sat by the window, watching the stars twinkle in the clear night sky. It’s moments like these that make travel so special – the shared experiences, the laughter, and the memories created together as a family. As I reflect on our day, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share my Finnish heritage with my family and to explore the beauty of Ruka-Kuusamo together. Tomorrow marks the last day of our adventure. We’re planning to visit the Tyrskyt veistos and Valtavaara Pond Shelter, followed by some souvenir shopping at Ruka BrandVillage before we head back to Germany. I’m already feeling a tinge of sadness that our trip is coming to an end, but I know we’ll be taking home memories that will last a lifetime. And who knows, maybe we’ll even be back next year for another winter adventure!

I’m so grateful for this opportunity to reconnect with my Finnish roots and share this beautiful part of the world with my family. It’s been an unforgettable experience, filled with laughter, adventure, and plenty of heartwarming moments. As I drift off to sleep, I’m already dreaming of our next adventure, wherever it may be. Good night, Ruka-Kuusamo. Kiitos for the memories.

I can’t wait to share our final day with you all tomorrow!