Hossa National Park Travel Guide - Free Web & App

Your ultimate guide to Hossa National Park. Discover top landmarks, proposed trips, and local tips. Free on the web or via the Evendo companion app.

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Hossa National Park
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Discover the serene beauty and ancient wonders of Hossa National Park, Finland's pristine wilderness retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Hossa National Park, located in the Kainuu region of Finland, is a pristine escape into nature's tranquil embrace. Established in 2017 to celebrate Finland's centenary, the park spans over 110 square kilometers of untouched wilderness. Visitors are greeted by a landscape of shimmering lakes, dense forests, and rugged cliffs, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
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One of the park's most remarkable features is its extensive network of crystal-clear lakes and rivers. These waterways are perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The Hossa Hiking Area offers a variety of well-marked trails that cater to all levels of hikers. The Karhunkierros Trail, or Bear's Path, is particularly popular, offering breathtaking views and a chance to spot local wildlife such as reindeer and bears.
In addition to its natural beauty, Hossa National Park is steeped in cultural history. The Värikallio Cliffs feature ancient rock paintings that date back over 4,000 years, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region's past. Visitors can also learn about traditional Sami culture and heritage at the park's visitor center. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Hossa National Park promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Finland's wild landscapes.

When is the best time to visit Hossa National Park?

Best: June–August · 18–21°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January-532
February-528
March-224
April318
May1017
June (best)1816
July (best)2115
August (best)1915
September1318
October624
November230
December-332

Getting to and around Hossa National Park

How to get there

Hossa National Park is located in the Kainuu region of Finland, near the eastern border with Russia. The nearest airport is Kuusamo Airport, approximately 80 kilometers away. From Kuusamo, you can rent a car or take a bus to Hossa. Alternatively, you can fly into Oulu Airport, which is about 200 kilometers away, and then drive or take public transportation to the park.

Transportation

While visiting Hossa National Park, renting a car is the most convenient way to get around, as it allows you to explore the park at your own pace. There is a limited public transportation network, but buses do connect the park with larger towns like Kuusamo and Suomussalmi. Within the park, you can explore many areas on foot, by bike, or by canoe.

Best attractions in Hossa National Park

Hossa National Park offers visitors a unique blend of pristine nature, rich history, and exciting outdoor activities. From crystal-clear lakes perfect for swimming and kayaking to ancient rock paintings dating back thousands of years, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Hike through lush forests, bike along scenic trails, or try your hand at fishing in the park's abundant waters. With cozy cabins for accommodation and a chance to witness the spectacular Northern Lights, Hossa National Park is a destination not to be missed.

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Best landmarks in Hossa National Park

Hossa National Park in Finland offers visitors a captivating experience with its pristine wilderness and unique geological formations. Explore ancient rock paintings dating back thousands of years, hike through dense forests and crystal-clear lakes, and witness the stunning beauty of the Northern Lights dancing in the night sky. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, canoeing, and camping in this remote and peaceful setting, immersing themselves in the natural wonders of this enchanting national park.

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Explore Hossa National Park on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants and hotels are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Hossa National Park

In Hossa National Park, visitors can expect a unique dining experience that combines traditional Finnish cuisine with modern twists. From cozy cafes serving freshly baked pastries and locally sourced ingredients to rustic restaurants offering reindeer dishes and smoked fish caught from the nearby lakes, there is something for every palate. Enjoy a meal in a log cabin by the fireplace or dine al fresco surrounded by the breathtaking natural scenery. With a focus on sustainability and authenticity, the dining scene in Hossa National Park is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

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Best bars in Hossa National Park

While Hossa National Park may be known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities, don't underestimate its nightlife scene. Visitors can enjoy cozy bars and lively nightclubs that offer a unique blend of Finnish culture and modern entertainment. From traditional Finnish music performances to international DJs spinning the latest hits, there is something for everyone to enjoy after a day of exploring the park. Grab a drink, mingle with locals and fellow travelers, and dance the night away under the northern lights for an unforgettable experience in Hossa National Park.

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Best nightclubs in Hossa National Park

While Hossa National Park may be known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities, don't underestimate its nightlife scene. Visitors can enjoy cozy bars and lively nightclubs that offer a unique blend of Finnish culture and modern entertainment. From traditional Finnish music performances to international DJs spinning the latest hits, there is something for everyone to enjoy after a day of exploring the park. Grab a drink, mingle with locals and fellow travelers, and dance the night away under the northern lights for an unforgettable experience in Hossa National Park.

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Best shops in Hossa National Park

While Hossa National Park is primarily known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities, visitors will be pleasantly surprised by the charming shopping scene in the area. From local handicrafts and traditional Finnish souvenirs to outdoor gear and camping supplies, there is something for everyone in the small shops and boutiques scattered throughout the park. Don't miss the opportunity to pick up a unique memento of your time in Hossa, whether it's a handmade woolen sweater or a beautiful piece of jewelry inspired by the surrounding nature.

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Hossa National Park essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency in Finland is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout Finland, including in Hossa National Park. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case you visit more remote areas where card payment might not be available. ATMs can be found in nearby towns such as Kuusamo and Suomussalmi.
Safety
Hossa National Park is generally a very safe destination for tourists. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists. Nevertheless, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night. Always follow park guidelines to ensure your safety while hiking or engaging in other outdoor activities.
Emergency Situations
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. For non-urgent medical issues, there are health centers in nearby towns like Kuusamo and Suomussalmi. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. If you are planning to engage in outdoor activities, inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do dress in layers and wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, especially if you're planning on hiking or spending time outdoors. Don't wear high heels or impractical shoes for outdoor activities. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, although Finland is generally secular. Public Transport: Do be punctual and polite when using public transport. Don’t speak loudly or play music without headphones. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake; a friendly nod or 'Moi' (Hi) is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Finnish delicacies and respect the communal nature of Finnish meals. Don't waste food; it is considered impolite.
Local Tips
To experience Hossa National Park like a local, consider visiting during the off-peak seasons of spring and autumn for a quieter experience. Engage with park rangers and locals to learn about the best spots for fishing, birdwatching, and hiking. Don't miss the rock paintings at Värikallio Cliffs, which are some of the oldest in Finland. For a unique experience, try traditional Finnish sauna followed by a dip in the lake.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHei[hay]
GoodbyeNäkemiin[nak-em-een]
YesKyllä[ku-lla]
NoEi[ay]
Please/You're welcomeOle hyvä[o-le hu-va]
Thank youKiitos[kee-tohs]
Excuse me/SorryAnteeksi[an-tee-ksee]
How are you?Kuinka voit?[kween-ka voyt]
Fine. And you?Hyvin. Entä sinä?[huh-vin. en-ta si-na]
Do you speak English?Puhutko englantia?[poo-hut-ko eng-lan-tee-a]
I don't understandEn ymmärrä[en um-mar-ra]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaisinko nähdä ruokalistan?[sai-sin-ko na-da roo-ka-lis-tan]
I don't eat meatEn syö lihaa[en suh le-ha]
Cheers!Kippis![kip-pis]
I would like to pay, pleaseHaluan maksaa, kiitos[ha-lu-an mak-saa, kee-tos]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Apua![a-pu-a]
Go away!Mene pois![me-ne pois]
Call the Police!Soita poliisille![soi-ta po-lii-sil-le]
Call a doctor!Soita lääkärille![soi-ta laa-ka-ri-le]
I'm lostOlen eksyksissä[o-len eks-uk-sis-sa]
I'm illOlen sairas[o-len sai-ras]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Haluan ostaa...[ha-lu-an os-ta]
I'm just lookingKatson vain[kat-son vain]
How much is it?Paljonko se maksaa?[pal-yon-ko se mak-saa]
That's too expensiveSe on liian kallis[se on lii-an kal-lis]
Can you lower the price?Voitko laskea hintaa?[voit-ko las-ke-a hin-ta-a]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Mitä kello on?[mi-ta kel-lo on]
It's one o'clockKello on yksi[kel-lo on yk-si]
Half past (10)Puoli (10)[puo-li (10)]
MorningAamu[aa-mu]
AfternoonIltapäivä[il-ta-pa-i-va]
EveningIlta[il-ta]
YesterdayEilen[ei-len]
TodayTänään[ta-nan]
TomorrowHuomenna[huo-men-na]
1Yksi[y-k-si]
2Kaksi[kak-si]
3Kolme[kol-me]
4Neljä[nel-ya]
5Viisi[vee-si]
6Kuusi[kuu-si]
7Seitsemän[sait-se-man]
8Kahdeksan[kah-dek-san]
9Yhdeksän[yh-dek-san]
10Kymmenen[kum-me-nen]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Missä on...[mis-sa on]
What's the address?Mikä on osoite?[mi-ka on o-soi-te]
Can you show me (on the map)?Voitko näyttää minulle (kartalla)?[voit-ko nayt-taa mi-nul-le (kar-tal-la)]
When's the next (bus)?Milloin on seuraava (bussi)?[mil-lon on seu-raa-va (bus-si)]
A ticket (to ....)Lippu (jonnekin)[lip-pu (yon-ne-kin)]

History of Hossa National Park

Ancient Rock Paintings

Hossa National Park is home to some of Finland's oldest rock paintings, dating back over 4,000 years. These ancient artworks, located at the Värikallio Cliffs, depict various human and animal figures, offering a glimpse into the lives and beliefs of the Stone Age people who once inhabited the region.

Sami Heritage

The indigenous Sami people have a long history in the Hossa region. Traditionally, they were semi-nomadic, relying on reindeer herding, fishing, and hunting. Traces of their ancient livelihoods can still be seen in the park, including old reindeer fences and traditional Sami dwellings known as 'kota'.

Medieval Trade Routes

During the medieval period, Hossa was an important area for trade routes connecting the inland regions of Finland to the coast. These routes facilitated the exchange of goods such as furs, fish, and salt, and were vital for the economic development of the region. Remnants of these ancient paths can still be traced through the park.

The Great Partition

In the 16th century, the area that is now Hossa National Park was affected by the Great Partition, a land distribution system implemented by the Swedish Crown. This event led to significant changes in land ownership and usage, impacting the local communities and shaping the landscape that visitors see today.

Forest Management and Logging

From the 19th century onwards, the Hossa region became a focal point for forestry and logging. The establishment of logging camps and the construction of log floats along rivers highlight the area's economic reliance on timber. These activities have left a lasting legacy on the landscape, with many old logging trails now serving as hiking paths.

Establishment of Hossa National Park

Hossa National Park was officially established in 2017 to celebrate Finland's 100th year of independence. The creation of the park aimed to protect the unique natural and cultural heritage of the area, ensuring that its rich history and pristine wilderness could be enjoyed by future generations.

Hossa National Park in Photos

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Evendo - Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Hossa National Park

Free app-based travel guide to Hossa National Park covering top attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, restaurants, hotels, tours, and activities.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich set of information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking of hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
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More about the Evendo app

Discover the beauty of Hossa National Park with Evendo, your comprehensive, free travel guide that provides everything you need to make the most of your trip.

  • Comprehensive history of Hossa National Park
  • Travel essentials and local advice
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near me' feature
  • Curated local tips to experience the park like a local
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases

Imagine exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Hossa National Park with a guide that fits right in your pocket. Evendo is your ultimate travel companion, offering detailed information on the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities. From the serene Julma-Ölkky Canyon to the ancient Värikallio Cliffs, our app covers all the must-see spots with rich descriptions, images, and local tips.

Easily navigate through the park with our integrated maps and 'Near me' feature, which shows you what's around you in real-time. Discover hidden gems like the Hossa Visitor Centre, where you can learn about the park's history, or the Lihapyörre Lake, perfect for a tranquil day out. When hunger strikes, find the best local eateries such as the Hossa Café and the Wilderness Hotel's restaurant, known for their traditional Finnish cuisine.

With Evendo, booking your stay is a breeze. Reserve hotels, tours, and experiences directly through the app, saving you time and effort. No more endless searches or logistical headaches; everything you need is in one place. And the best part? Evendo is 100% free to use, with no in-app purchases or hidden costs.

Beyond Hossa National Park, Evendo covers over 7,000 destinations worldwide. So whether you're planning your next adventure or exploring a new city, Evendo is your go-to travel guide.

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