Family Winter Adventure in Ruka-Kuusamo

Last Day Musings in Ruka

As our Finnish adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family in Ruka-Kuusamo. Today was a day of gentle exploration, savoring the last moments of this beautiful landscape and Nordic culture before we pack our bags and head back to Heidelberg. There’s a bittersweet feeling in the air, a blend of contentment from the memories made and a touch of sadness that our time here is ending.

Our day began, as many have, with a hearty breakfast at Kaltiokivi. Knowing it was our last chance to enjoy the local flavors, we indulged in a leisurely meal. The kids enjoyed their fill of Finnish pancakes, while Maximilian and I savored some traditional Karelian pies. It's funny how food can become such an integral part of a travel experience, each bite evoking memories of our time here.

After breakfast, we decided to take a stroll through Ruka Village, making a stop at the Ruka BrandVillage. I was hoping to find a few last-minute souvenirs. The Brand Village had a great selection of Finnish outdoor and leisure brands. Sofia was particularly excited by a small, plush Sisu-lion, which she immediately adopted as her travel companion. I picked up a warm woollen hat, a practical reminder of our time in the crisp Finnish air.

Our next stop was the Tyrskyt veistos, a local sculpture that caught my eye. It was fascinating to see how art reflects the spirit and culture of a place. I appreciated the way it blended into the landscape, almost as if it had grown there naturally. It made me think about how public art enriches our environment and encourages us to pause and reflect, something I definitely want to explore more back in Heidelberg.


Explore the captivating Tyrskyt Veistos sculpture in Kuusamo, a true artistic gem surrounded by Finland's stunning natural beauty.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

With the crisp autumn air invigorating us, we decided to embark on a short hike to the Valtavaara Pond Shelter. The trail was easily accessible, and the scenery was simply breathtaking. The vibrant autumn colors painted the landscape in hues of red, orange, and gold, making it a photographer's dream. I was so glad I hadn't forgotten my camera, even if I did forget the extra memory card! The hike itself was gentle enough for Sofia, and she enjoyed spotting different types of berries along the way.


Discover the serene beauty of Valtavaara Pond Shelter in Kuusamo, Finland, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Reaching the Valtavaara Pond Shelter, we were greeted by a serene view of the water. The shelter provided a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. We sat there for a while, listening to the gentle sounds of nature and feeling grateful for this moment of peace. I made a mental note to seek out similar spots in the Odenwald forest near Heidelberg; I really cherish these moments of quiet contemplation in nature.

For lunch, we decided to try Ravintola Vespino, drawn in by the aroma of Italian cuisine. It felt a little odd to be eating Italian food in Finland, but the menu looked delicious, and we were all in the mood for something different. I opted for a pasta dish with seafood, while Maximilian chose a classic pizza. Sofia, of course, went for the kids' penne pasta. The food was comforting and satisfying, a welcome change from the heavier Finnish fare we'd been enjoying.


Experience the essence of Italy at Ravintola Vespino in Kuusamo - where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

In the afternoon, with our departure looming, we returned to Ski-Inn RukaVillage to pack our belongings. There was a flurry of activity as we sorted through our clothes, souvenirs, and the various bits and pieces we had accumulated during our stay. Sofia insisted on packing her new Sisu-lion herself, carefully placing it in her backpack.


Experience the best of Rukatunturi with Ski-Inn RukaVillage, where comfort meets adventure in the heart of Finland's winter wonderland.

As evening approached, we decided to have one last dinner at Restaurant Piste. We opted for some classic dishes, wanting to remember the taste of Ruka. Maximilian and I shared a plate of wings, while Sofia enjoyed a simple burger. The atmosphere was lively, and we found ourselves reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip.


Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Restaurant Piste in Kuusamo – where delicious food meets lively entertainment.

After dinner, we took a final stroll through Ruka Village, soaking in the atmosphere one last time. The village was quiet, with a gentle stillness that seemed to reflect our own mood. We paused for a moment to look up at the sky, marveling at the stars that shone so brightly in the clear Finnish air. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.

Tomorrow, we will be making our way back to Kuusamo Airport to catch our flight back to Germany. While I am looking forward to returning to the comforts of home, I know that a part of me will always remain in Ruka-Kuusamo. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it has been a journey of rediscovery, a chance to reconnect with my Finnish heritage, and an opportunity to create lasting memories with my family.

I am already dreaming of our next adventure, wherever it may be. But for now, I will cherish the memories of Ruka, the beauty of the Finnish wilderness, and the joy of experiencing it all with my loved ones. Kiitos, Ruka, for everything. Until next time!

As I reflect on our time here, I realize that travel is not just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing new things, connecting with different cultures, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. It's about stepping outside of our comfort zones, embracing the unknown, and discovering new aspects of ourselves and the world around us. And most importantly, it's about sharing these experiences with the people we love.

And with that, I bid you goodnight from Ruka. Tomorrow, Heidelberg awaits!