Family Winter Adventure in Ruka-Kuusamo

Embracing the Wild Side of Finland

Today was a day of incredible contrasts, a true testament to the diverse beauty of Ruka-Kuusamo. From the exhilarating rush of gliding through the snow-dusted landscapes with a team of huskies to the quiet serenity of observing Finland's avian life from a birdwatching tower, it was a day that filled my heart with joy and wonder. It's days like these that remind me why I love sharing these experiences with my family and with you, my readers.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the Royal Ruka Hotel & Restaurant. The buffet was excellent, offering everything from warm Karelian pies to fresh Finnish bread, setting us up perfectly for our morning adventure. I even managed to sneak in an extra cup of coffee, knowing I’d need the energy for what was to come. Maximilian and Sofia were excited, their eyes sparkling with anticipation for our husky adventure. It’s moments like these that make all the planning and travel worthwhile. The friendly staff created a relaxed atmosphere, making us feel right at home.


Discover comfort and exquisite dining at Royal Ruka Hotel & Restaurant in Kuusamo – your perfect getaway amidst stunning Finnish landscapes.

After breakfast, we bundled into our winter gear and set off for Husky Fun Kuusamo. The crisp morning air nipped at our cheeks, but the excitement kept us warm. As we arrived, we were greeted by the enthusiastic barks and wagging tails of the husky team. Sofia was instantly captivated, her initial hesitation melting away as she reached out to stroke a friendly husky named Luna. The staff at Husky Fun Kuusamo were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about their dogs, explaining how each dog has its own unique personality and role within the team.


Discover the adventure of husky sledding in the stunning wilderness of Kuusamo, Finland – a must-visit for nature and thrill seekers alike.

We learned about the different breeds of huskies they had, including Alaskan Huskies and Siberian Huskies. It was fascinating to hear about their training and how they are cared for. It's clear that these dogs are not just working animals, but cherished members of the family. The anticipation grew as we were given a safety briefing and instructions on how to handle the sled. Sofia was bouncing with excitement, eager to experience the thrill of dog sledding firsthand.

Once we were settled on the sled, with Maximilian at the helm, the huskies surged forward, their powerful bodies pulling us effortlessly through the snow-covered trails. The feeling was incredible – the wind in our faces, the rhythmic panting of the dogs, and the stunning Finnish landscape whizzing by. Sofia was giggling with delight, her face flushed with excitement. I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride in my Finnish heritage, knowing that I was sharing this unique experience with my family.

The bond between humans and animals, the thrill of adventure, and the serene beauty of nature all converged in a single, unforgettable moment.

We glided through the forests, the only sounds the soft crunch of the sled runners on the snow and the occasional call of the musher. It was a truly immersive experience, allowing us to connect with nature in a way I had never imagined. We learned that the huskies can pull up to nine times their own weight, which is an incredible feat of strength and endurance. After what felt like a too-short time, we returned to the husky farm, where we had the chance to thank and cuddle our furry friends. Sofia was particularly smitten with Luna, promising to visit her again someday. It was heartwarming to see the connection she had formed with these incredible animals.

For lunch, we headed to Pizzeria Ruka. After our exhilarating morning, we were all ravenous. The aroma of freshly baked pizza filled the air as we stepped inside. We ordered a Quattro Stagioni and a Mexicana pizza to share. The pizzas were delicious, the perfect combination of crispy crust, flavorful toppings, and melted cheese. Sofia devoured her slices, declaring it the best pizza she had ever tasted. I appreciated the cozy atmosphere of the pizzeria, a welcome respite from the cold weather outside. Maximilian enjoyed a local Finnish beer, while Sofia and I shared a chocolate gelato for dessert.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Pizzeria Ruka in Kuusamo – where every pizza tells a story of tradition and taste.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off for our afternoon adventure: birdwatching at the Jätkäri Bird Watching Tower (Altushka). The drive to the tower was scenic, winding through forests and past frozen lakes. As we arrived, we were greeted by the sight of the tall wooden tower, standing sentinel over the surrounding landscape. The tower is designed to provide an unobstructed view of the diverse birdlife that inhabits the area. I had packed my binoculars, hoping to spot some of Finland's unique avian species. The best times to visit the tower are during the spring and autumn when bird activity peaks.


Discover the serene beauty of Jätkäri Bird Watching Tower in Kuusamo, a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

We climbed the stairs to the top of the tower, the wind picking up as we ascended. From the top, we had a panoramic view of the surrounding wetlands and forests. It was a peaceful scene, the only sounds the rustling of the wind and the occasional call of a bird. Sofia was fascinated, scanning the horizon with her own set of binoculars. We spotted several different species of birds, including swans, ducks, and various songbirds. I tried to explain to Sofia about migratory patterns and the importance of preserving these natural habitats.

While the tower is not fully accessible, I read that the surrounding area and some lower platforms are accessible by wheelchair. It’s wonderful to see efforts being made to ensure that everyone can enjoy these natural spaces. I made a mental note to research more accessible birdwatching spots for future trips. It’s important to me that everyone has the opportunity to experience the beauty of nature, regardless of their physical abilities. We spent a peaceful hour at the tower, immersed in the tranquility of the Finnish wilderness. It was a welcome contrast to the adrenaline-fueled excitement of the morning, a reminder of the simple joys of observing nature.

For dinner, we had reservations at Restaurant Tapio. This restaurant is known for its seasonal tasting menu that celebrates the unique ingredients of Northern Finland. I was excited to experience the culinary artistry of Chef Connor and his Finnish partner Johanna. The restaurant is small and intimate, seating only around 20 guests. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with vintage skiing posters adorning the walls.


Discover authentic Scandinavian flavors at Restaurant Tapio in Kuusamo – where every dish tells a story of Finnish heritage.

The meal was an exquisite journey through the flavors of Lapland. We started with a Norwegian scallop with a rich foraged cep sauce. The scallop was perfectly seared, and the cep sauce added a depth of flavor that was truly remarkable. Next, we enjoyed a local trout dish, prepared with delicate herbs and spices. The trout was incredibly fresh and flavorful, a testament to the quality of the local ingredients. For dessert, we savored a cloudberry parfait, a traditional Finnish treat. The cloudberries were tart and sweet, a perfect ending to the meal. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, explaining each dish with passion and enthusiasm. It was a truly memorable dining experience, one that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting Ruka-Kuusamo.

After dinner, Maximilian and I decided to check out Zone for a nightcap. Sofia was tired from our day of adventures, so she went back to the Ski-Inn RukaVillage with a promise of stories about tomorrow. Zone is known for being a lively spot with karaoke and live music. We enjoyed a couple of local beers and listened to some live music. The atmosphere was energetic and fun, a perfect way to end our day. I even managed to sing a few lines of a Finnish karaoke classic, much to Maximilian's amusement. It was a fun and lighthearted end to a day filled with incredible experiences.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Kuusamo at Zone, a grill restaurant offering delicious meals, live music, and a cozy atmosphere for all visitors.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences of the day. From the thrill of husky sledding to the serenity of birdwatching and the culinary delights of Restaurant Tapio, it was a day that truly captured the essence of Ruka-Kuusamo. I am so grateful to be able to share these experiences with my family and with you, my readers. Tomorrow, we are planning to explore the Saarua Winter Trail and visit the Rukan Miniskeittiparkki [Rukan Mini Skate Park], so stay tuned for more adventures in this winter wonderland!

The events in Ruka-Kuusamo in October include the Ruka Ski Season opening and the Autumn Holiday. The Ruka Karaoke Carnival occurs in September.