Family Winter Adventure in Ruka-Kuusamo

Nordic Encounters: Reindeer and History in Ruka-Kuusamo

Today was a delightful blend of cultural immersion and heartwarming animal encounters here in Ruka-Kuusamo. It's amazing how quickly this place is starting to feel like home, connecting me to my Finnish roots in ways I hadn't anticipated. Sofia is absolutely loving the adventure, and even Maximilian, who usually prefers cityscapes, is captivated by the serene beauty of the Finnish wilderness.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ruka Peak - Boutique Hotel & Restaurant. The views from the restaurant were simply breathtaking, a perfect start to a day filled with exploration. I enjoyed a traditional Finnish breakfast of Karelian pies and egg butter, while Maximilian opted for a continental selection. Sofia, of course, went straight for the pastries! The hotel's location, perched high with panoramic views, made the experience all the more special.


Experience luxurious accommodations and exquisite Finnish cuisine at Ruka Peak, your gateway to adventure in Finland's stunning landscapes.

After breakfast, we set off for the Orjasniemi Reindeer Farm. The drive itself was picturesque, with the autumnal colors painting the landscape in hues of gold and red. As we approached the farm, Sofia's excitement was palpable. She's always been fascinated by animals, and the prospect of meeting reindeer up close had her practically bouncing in her seat. Orjasniemi Reindeer Farm has 70 years of experience in reindeer herding.
Upon arrival, we were greeted by the friendly owner, who shared fascinating stories about reindeer husbandry, a traditional livelihood in the north. He explained how reindeer have been a source of livelihood for many families and were used as transportation in the wilderness. Sofia was wide-eyed, listening intently to every word. We learned about the different types of reindeer, their habits, and their importance to the Sami people. It was an educational experience for all of us, connecting us to the cultural heritage of the region. This autumn holiday is turning out to be a truly great family experience.
The highlight of our visit was, of course, meeting the reindeer themselves. Sofia was thrilled to feed them lichen, their favorite food, and even got a short reindeer ride. The owner was very friendly and the ride was short but great. The reindeers were beautiful. It was heartwarming to see her connect with these gentle creatures, her laughter echoing through the crisp air. Maximilian, too, couldn't resist taking photos, capturing the magical moment. The reindeer farm also has a cafe, and options for ice sledding.


Discover the enchanting Orjasniemi Reindeer Farm in Kuusamo, Finland, where you can interact with reindeer and explore Sami culture in a breathtaking natural setting.

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

For lunch, we decided to try CAMP Kitchen & Bar - RUKA. It was conveniently located and had great reviews, with visitors praising the cozy atmosphere and the spectacular service. The interior had a camping theme, with wooden tables and warm lighting. Maximilian and I enjoyed some local craft beers, while Sofia devoured a plate of meatballs. It was a relaxed and enjoyable meal, providing us with the energy we needed for the afternoon's adventure.


Discover the flavors of Finland at CAMP Kitchen & Bar in Ruka – where local ingredients meet cozy dining.

Our next stop was the Kuusamo Local History Museum. I was eager to delve deeper into the region's past and share it with my family. The museum is a treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the local people, their traditions, and the evolution of life in this picturesque area. The museum's dedication to preserving and presenting the region's heritage makes it a must-visit for anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of Finnish culture.


Discover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Kuusamo at the Local History Museum, where the past comes alive through engaging exhibits and artifacts.

The Kuusamo Local History Museum offered a captivating glimpse into the cultural and historical richness of this Finnish region. Sofia was particularly fascinated by the traditional costumes and tools, imagining what life must have been like for children her age in the past. I appreciated the museum's efforts to bring history to life, with interactive displays and knowledgeable staff who were eager to share their insights. Maximilian, surprisingly, found himself engrossed in the exhibits on the Winter War, gaining a new appreciation for Finland's resilience and strength.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to a special dinner at Riipisen Wild Game Restaurant. Known for being the best game restaurant in Finland , I was excited to introduce my family to the unique flavors of Nordic cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and lovely Finnish decor. The products for the dishes are really high quality, tasty and local.


Discover authentic Finnish flavors at Riipisen Wild Game Restaurant in Kuusamo – a delightful culinary journey into wild game cuisine.

We started with fried vendaces, a local delicacy, followed by sautéed reindeer for Maximilian and me, and a special children's menu for Sofia. The food was absolutely delicious, showcasing the natural bounty of the region. Maximilian was particularly impressed with the reindeer, declaring it the best meat he'd ever tasted. Sofia, surprisingly, enjoyed the taste of the game meat. For dessert, we shared a traditional squeaky cheese with cloudberry jam, a perfect ending to a memorable meal.

After dinner, we made a quick stop at Polar Bar Ruka. The bar features a warm and inviting interior that reflects the traditional Finnish design, making it an ideal place to relax and socialize. We enjoyed some hot chocolate while soaking in the lively atmosphere. It was a perfect way to wind down after a day of exploration, sharing stories and laughter before heading back to our cozy Ski-Inn RukaVillage.


Discover Polar Bar Ruka - a cozy dining spot atop Saaruan Hill, offering stunning views, local cuisine, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of Ruka Ski Resort.

Reflecting on the day, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for this opportunity to connect with my heritage and share it with my family. Ruka-Kuusamo is more than just a beautiful destination; it's a place where history, culture, and nature intertwine, creating a truly enriching experience.

Tomorrow, we are planning to explore the natural wonders of the area with a visit to Pirunkirkko Cave and Myllykoski Rapids. Sofia is excited to see the cave, and I am looking forward to hiking around the rapids. We'll also have breakfast at Ski Bistro, lunch at Ravintola Vespino and dinner at RukaTonttu. I'm sure it will be another day filled with adventure and discovery. And of course, we'll need to stock up on some essentials at K-Market Ruka village to keep us going!

Until then, *Näkemiin!*