Family Winter Adventure in Ruka-Kuusamo

A Day of Snowy Trails and Finnish Treasures

Today was a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and immersing ourselves in Finnish culture here in Ruka-Kuusamo. The crisp air and stunning landscapes made it a day to remember, as we explored winter trails, savored local cuisine, and discovered unique Finnish designs. It's days like these that make our family trip so special, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Our day began with a hearty Finnish breakfast at Ravintola Remu. Maximilian and I enjoyed strong Finnish coffee, while Sofia devoured some *pulla*, a sweet cardamom bread. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our morning adventure. Ravintola Remu seems to be a local favorite, with events like karaoke and bingo nights. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, just what we needed to start our day on a high note.

After breakfast, we bundled up in our warmest gear and headed to the Saarua Winter Trail - starting point. The starting point was easy to find, and the trail was well-maintained, making it perfect for a family hike. As we set off, the snow crunched beneath our boots, and the scenery was simply breathtaking. Towering trees covered in snow created a magical winter wonderland. Sofia was particularly excited, pointing out animal tracks in the snow and marveling at the icicles hanging from the branches. The trail wound through the forest, offering glimpses of the surrounding fells. The fresh air and peaceful surroundings were a welcome escape from our busy lives back in Heidelberg.


Explore the enchanting Saarua Winter Trail in Kuusamo, where snowy landscapes invite adventure and tranquility in Finland's breathtaking wilderness.

The beauty of Finnish Lapland in winter is a serene reminder of nature's enduring power and quiet majesty.

We took our time, enjoying the scenery and snapping photos. I made sure to capture Sofia's rosy cheeks and Maximilian's goofy grin as he pretended to be a snowman. Although I had forgotten my sunglasses, the soft sunlight filtering through the trees wasn't too harsh. We only hiked a portion of the trail, as the full Valtavaara Winter Trail is a more challenging 5.5 km. However, we enjoyed the gentle slopes and stunning views nonetheless. It was invigorating to be surrounded by such natural beauty, a far cry from the urban landscapes we are used to.

After our invigorating hike, we were ready for lunch. We decided to try Korpikahvila, a charming cafe known for its traditional Finnish treats. The cafe was cozy and welcoming, with a rustic interior and the aroma of freshly baked goods filling the air. We ordered *lohikeitto* (salmon soup) and *lettuja* (pancakes) with lingonberry jam. The soup was hearty and flavorful, and the pancakes were a sweet and satisfying treat. Sofia especially loved the pancakes, devouring them in minutes. Korpikahvila also offers activities for children, such as pony rides and snowmobile rides for smaller children. Although Sofia was a bit too old for the pony rides, she enjoyed exploring the play area outside the cafe. It was a perfect spot for a family lunch, offering both delicious food and entertainment for the little ones.


Experience authentic Finnish flavors at Korpikahvila in Kuusamo - where every meal tells a story.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at PENTIK. As someone who appreciates interior design and Finnish craftsmanship, I was excited to visit this renowned Finnish brand. The store was filled with beautiful ceramics, textiles, and home decor items, all showcasing the unique aesthetic of Finnish design. I was particularly drawn to the colorful ceramics, with their intricate patterns and earthy tones. Sofia, on the other hand, was fascinated by the plush toys and decorative items. We spent a good hour browsing the store, admiring the beautiful displays and carefully selecting a few items to take home as souvenirs. I finally settled on a set of ceramic bowls with a traditional Finnish pattern, while Sofia chose a cute reindeer plush toy. It was a delightful way to support local artisans and bring a piece of Finnish culture back to our home in Heidelberg. I was tempted by the sewing services offered at Pentik, but I resisted, knowing I have enough unfinished knitting projects waiting for me back home.


Explore PENTIK in Kuusamo for unique Finnish gifts and home decor that reflect exquisite craftsmanship and design.

As the afternoon waned, we made a quick stop at Rukan Miniskeittiparkki. Although Sofia isn't a skateboarder, she enjoyed watching the local kids practice their tricks. The skatepark was a vibrant hub of activity, with music playing and skaters of all ages showing off their skills. It was a fun and unexpected glimpse into the local youth culture of Ruka. We didn't stay long, but it was a nice way to round out our day of exploration.


Explore the excitement of Rukan Miniskeittiparkki, a vibrant skateboard park in Kuusamo, Finland, perfect for skaters and nature lovers alike.

For dinner, we decided to try RukaTonttu, a restaurant known for its traditional Lappish cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, with wooden interiors and warm lighting. We ordered reindeer stew and grilled salmon, both local specialties. The reindeer stew was rich and flavorful, and the salmon was perfectly cooked. Sofia tried a bit of both, but she mostly stuck to her familiar favorites. The service was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. It was a perfect way to end our day, savoring the flavors of Lapland in a warm and welcoming setting.


Discover RukaTonttu: A delightful restaurant and hotel offering authentic Finnish cuisine and cozy accommodations near Ruka ski resort.

As we headed back to our Ski-Inn RukaVillage accommodation, I couldn't help but reflect on the wonderful day we had. We experienced the beauty of Finnish nature, savored local cuisine, and discovered unique Finnish designs. It was a day filled with laughter, exploration, and cultural immersion. These are the moments that make our family trips so special, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I'm also happy that I managed to compensate for forgetting my sunglasses by buying a beautiful ceramic bowl from Pentik.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Angry Birds Activity Park and Oulangan Taika Oy [Oulangan Taika], promising another day filled with fun and adventure. And perhaps, if we have time, we might check out RUOK, a local bar, for a taste of the Ruka nightlife. I am looking forward to tomorrow already!

I am so grateful for these experiences and the chance to share them with my family. Every day here feels like a new adventure, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel and explore new cultures. I am happy to be able to share this experience with Maximilian and Sofia, and to show them the beauty and charm of my Finnish heritage. As I sit here writing, I can't help but smile, feeling grateful for this incredible journey and the memories we are creating together. The Finnish wilderness has a way of rejuvenating the soul, and I'm already feeling refreshed and inspired. This trip is not just a vacation; it's a reconnection with my roots and a celebration of family and culture. And as the day ends here at 6:15 PM, I am looking forward to tomorrow.