Family Winter Adventure in Ruka-Kuusamo

Whispers of the Wild

Today was a day of reconnecting with nature's untouched beauty, a gentle reminder of why I longed to return to Finland. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of Heidelberg, Maximilian, Sofia and I ventured into the heart of Ruka-Kuusamo to explore its natural wonders. It’s days like these that make me appreciate my Finnish heritage even more, and I'm so happy to share these experiences with my family.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Kaltiokivi. I remember Kaltiokivi being a cozy place, ideal for fueling up before a day of exploration. The restaurant is known for serving modern Finnish cuisine, and it was a delightful way to start our day. Sofia was particularly excited about the traditional Finnish pancakes, while Maximilian enjoyed a selection of local cheeses and smoked salmon. I opted for a simple rye bread with butter and a cup of strong Finnish coffee, a taste that always brings back memories of my childhood in Savonlinna. It felt wonderful to introduce my family to the flavors of my homeland, and their enjoyment of the meal made it all the more special.


Discover authentic Finnish flavors at Kaltiokivi, nestled in scenic Kuusamo – perfect for an unforgettable dining experience after exploring nature.

After breakfast, our first stop was Kiutaköngäs, a set of stunning rapids within Oulanka National Park. The crisp autumn air and the vibrant colors of the surrounding foliage made the short drive incredibly scenic. As we approached the rapids, the sound of rushing water grew louder, creating an atmosphere of anticipation. The walk to the viewing point was easy, even for Sofia, and soon we were standing before the cascading waters of Kiutaköngäs.


Explore Kiutaköngäs, a stunning nature preserve in Finland, known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and year-round outdoor activities.

The sight was truly breathtaking. The water roared as it tumbled over the rocks, creating a misty spray that kissed our faces. The surrounding dolomite rock wall added to the drama, making the scene feel both powerful and serene. We spent a good hour simply watching the rapids, mesmerized by their energy and beauty. Sofia was particularly fascinated by the way the sunlight caught the water, creating rainbows in the mist. I tried to explain to her how these rapids have been shaping the landscape for centuries, a testament to the enduring power of nature. Maximilian, ever the photographer, captured countless shots of the scene, trying to capture the essence of Kiutaköngäs in his images. The trail is open year round and is a great hiking destination for the whole family.

Nature is not a place to visit, it is home.

Next on our itinerary was the Hannu Hautala Nature Photography Center. As someone who appreciates the beauty of the Finnish landscape, I was eager to see the work of one of Finland's most renowned nature photographers. The center is located in Kuusamo's Tourist Center Karhuntassu, and is dedicated to celebrating nature photography and research. The exhibition hall was intimate, but well-curated, featuring a selection of Hautala's classic photographs as well as works by other nature photographers.


Explore the Hannu Hautala Nature Photography Center, where stunning nature photography meets the serene beauty of Finnish landscapes in Kuusamo.

I was immediately struck by Hautala's ability to capture the subtle nuances of the Finnish landscape. His images were more than just photographs; they were stories, each one revealing a different aspect of the Finnish soul. There were photos of the Riisitunturi National Park and other places. Sofia seemed particularly drawn to the images of Finnish wildlife, especially the Siberian jay, which has a hall dedicated to it. Maximilian, with his keen eye for detail, admired Hautala's technical skill and his ability to create such evocative images. We spent a long time discussing the power of photography to connect us with nature and to inspire a sense of stewardship for the environment.

After immersing ourselves in the world of nature photography, we decided to indulge in a delightful lunch at Ristorante il GUFO. This restaurant came highly recommended for its authentic Finnish cuisine and cozy atmosphere. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by the warm and inviting ambiance, with rustic decor that added to its charm. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Finnish cuisine at Ristorante il GUFO in Kuusamo - where tradition meets taste in a cozy atmosphere.

The menu at Ristorante il GUFO was a celebration of local ingredients, with a diverse array of dishes that catered to every taste. Maximilian and I opted for traditional Finnish fare, savoring the rich and comforting flavors of reindeer stew and creamy salmon soup. Sofia, always a fan of Italian cuisine, chose the Nonna's Meatball Pasta. Each dish was expertly prepared and beautifully presented, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. The restaurant is known for traditional Finnish staples to contemporary culinary creations.

After lunch, we headed to RukaStore, hoping to pick up a few souvenirs and perhaps some new gear for our upcoming ski adventures. The store is located in the heart of Ruka and offers a wide selection of outdoor equipment, clothing, and gifts. As we browsed the aisles, Sofia was immediately drawn to the colorful displays of winter hats and gloves, while Maximilian checked out the latest ski equipment. I was on the lookout for a warm, woolen scarf to protect me from the chilly Finnish winds. The store also offers a wide selection of snowboards and skis that you can test out before you buy.


Discover RukaStore in Kuusamo for all your outdoor sportswear needs, perfect for skiing, hiking, and exploring Finland’s stunning wilderness.

I ended up finding a beautiful hand-knitted scarf made from local wool, a perfect reminder of our time in Ruka-Kuusamo. Sofia chose a pair of bright pink mittens, while Maximilian decided to invest in a new pair of ski goggles. As we left the store, laden with our purchases, we couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for the days ahead.

For dinner, we decided to try Ravintola Peak, known for its local ingredients and uncomplicated cuisine. It seems like a really nice restaurant, but it might be closed for the season. Luckily it was open, and we had a wonderful meal! The restaurant's philosophy centers around using seasonal, high-quality ingredients sourced as locally as possible, simple yet elegant preparation methods, excellent wine pairings, and warm, attentive service. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with a fireplace and snow-covered trees illuminated. If you are lucky, you can see the Northern Lights through the large windows while having dinner.


Experience authentic Finnish cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Ravintola Peak in Kuusamo—where every dish tells a story.

We enjoyed local delicacies such as sauteed reindeer and fresh fish, all prepared with a modern twist. Sofia enjoyed a kid friendly meal as well. The staff was attentive and helpful, providing recommendations and making sure we had everything we needed. It was the perfect end to a day filled with nature and adventure.

As the day drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had shared. From the rushing waters of Kiutaköngäs to the captivating images at the Hannu Hautala Nature Photography Center, every moment had been a reminder of the beauty and power of the natural world. And as I looked at my family, their faces flushed with happiness and excitement, I knew that this trip to Ruka-Kuusamo was already a success.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to visit the Orjasniemi Reindeer Farm and the Kuusamo Local History Museum. I am excited to learn more about the local culture and traditions, and I know Sofia will be thrilled to see the reindeer. We might even stop by Polar Bar Ruka for a nightcap, if we're not too tired from all the exploring. I’m already looking forward to another day of adventure in this beautiful corner of Finland.

Until tomorrow,
Aino