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Hiidenportti National Park, Sotkamo, FinlandPhoto:Harri Tarvainen, Metsähallitus
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Husky sledding in Arctic Lakeland KainuuPhoto:Sotkamon kunta
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The snow sure landscapes of Suomussalmi invite skiers of all levels on the trailsPhoto:Hannu Huttu, Suomussalmen kunta
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Cycling in the sunshine is a popular activity of the winter seasonPhoto:Hannu Huttu, Suomussalmen kunta
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Snowshoeing in Hiidenportti National Park, FinlandPhoto:Harri Tarvainen, Metsähallitus
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The lean-to shelter of Muikkupuro in Hossa National ParkPhoto:Hannu Huttu, Suomussalmen kunta
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Aurinkolatu is an easy circular route for the whole family in the lake and hill landscapes of Vuokatti, FinlandPhoto:Petri Kovalainen, Sotkamon kunta
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Winter swimming is very popular in the regionPhoto:Risto Takala, Visit Kuhmo
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Winter swimming in Kajaani, FinlandPhoto:Kajaanin kaupunki
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Arctic Lakeland Kainuu is a holiday destination for the whole familyPhoto:Sotkamon kunta
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Rapids in Kainuu are impressive even in winterPhoto:Risto Takala, Visit Kuhmo
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The capital of Kainuu, Kajaani, surrounded by magnificent hilly landscapes and lakesPhoto:Kajaanin kaupunki
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Vuokatti, the ski resort of the year 2020Photo:Sotkamon kunta
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Kainuu is a snow-sure destination that is excellent for winter sportsPhoto:Kajaanin kaupunki
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The silhouette of Vuokatti in the enchanting colours of winterPhoto:Sotkamon kunta
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Hikers admiring the magnificent gorge landscape of HiidenporttiPhoto:Harri Tarvainen, Metsähallitus
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Mountainbiking in VuokattiPhoto:Sotkamon kunta
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The impressive canyon lake Julma-ÖlkkyPhoto:Suomussalmen kunta
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Elimyssalo Nature Reserve, FinlandPhoto:Johanna Vilhunen, Visit Kuhmo
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Winter atmosphere and coffee by campfirePhoto:Kajaanin kaupunki
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The rapids in Kuhmo are perfect for fishingPhoto:Visit Kuhmo
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100-year-old Kianta ship in Suomussalmi, FinlandPhoto:Suomussalmen kunta
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Mountain bikers by Muikkupuro stream in Suomussalmi, FinlandPhoto:Hannu Huttu, Suomussalmen kunta
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Cyclist in the evening sun in the beautiful nature of Suomussalmi, FinlandPhoto:Hannu Huttu, Suomussalmen kunta
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The beautiful wilderness of the Friendship ParkPhoto:Harri Tarvainen, Metsähallitus
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The wonderful lakes in the Friendship ParkPhoto:Harri Tarvainen, Metsähallitus
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Artic Lakeland Spot 040221Video:Kainuu
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Arctic Lakeland Kainuu, in the middle of Finland, combines the lake landscapes of southern Finland with the arctic conditions of Lapland. In summer, lakes, rapids, and rivers are suitable for water activities such as kayaking, boating, and fishing. In autumn, the magnificent autumn colours of hilly and forested landscapes invite visitors to hike and cycle. In winter, you can explore the snow-covered forests and bogs by snowshoeing, winter cycling, skiing, and ice fishing. On Kainuu’s high-quality route network, you can get to know nature and destinations either independently or with a guide. Vuokatti, Kuhmo, Suomussalmi,Kajaani, Ukkohalla, Paljakkaand Wild Taigaare excellent holiday destinations of Arctic Lakeland region. Whether you visit by plane, boat, train, or car, the destination offers harmony of nature, culture, experiences, and activities all year round.
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Activities in Arctic Lakeland Kainuu
Attractions in Arctic Lakeland Kainuu
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Winter Hiking · Hossa National Park
Värikallio wilderness trail 6.5 km, Hossa National Park
Toprecommended route Difficultyeasy
Distance6.7 km
Duration2:30 h
Ascent 8 m
Descent8 m
Värikallio wilderness trail takes you to Hossa’s most famous attraction. The ice cover of Lake Somerjärvi makes it possible to take a close look ...
fromPasi Korhonen,Outdoors Kainuu
Mountain Biking · Suomussalmi
Jatkonvaara multipurpose trail 12 km, Hossa Finland
Toprecommended route Difficultymoderate
Distance11.7 km
Duration4:00 h
Ascent 34 m
Descent34 m
This multipurposetrailleadsaround Jatkonvaara-hill, where you can enjoy the esker and lake views. It is possible touse this track with ...
fromArto Heikkinen,Outdoors Kainuu
Cross-Country Skiing · Kuhmo
Harakkasaari sun ski trail 5 km, Kuhmo Finland
Toprecommended route Difficultyeasy
Distance5.2 km
Duration0:35 h
Ascent 33 m
Descent33 m
Experience what makes the land of a thousand lakes so unique by enjoying cross country skiing, a typical Finnish activity, on a beautiful ice ...
fromArto Heikkinen,Outdoors Kainuu
Mountain Biking · Vuokatti-Sotkamo
Vuokatti-Leivolankylä Winter Trail 7,4 km, Vuokatti Finland
Toprecommended route Difficultymoderate
Distance7.3 km
Duration1:20 h
Ascent 41 m
Descent42 m
This winter mountain biking trail offers speed and requires skills when diving into the esker forest of Leivolankylä.There is a constant up and ...
1
fromPasi Korhonen,Outdoors Kainuu
Cross-Country Skiing · Vuokatti-Sotkamo
Jäätiö ski and multipurpose trail 2 km, Vuokatti Finland
Toprecommended route Difficultyeasy
Distance2 km
Duration0:20 h
Ascent 12 m
Descent12 m
Jäätiötrail is an illuminated, circle route in easy terrain that allows you to ski, walk, kicksledge or ride a fatbike during winter.
fromArto Heikkinen,Outdoors Kainuu
Viewpoint · Vuokatti-Sotkamo
Iso-Pölly Vuokatinvaara, Accessible, Vuokatti
Vuokatti-Sotkamo
Accessibility
Iso-Pölly is the highest summit of the Vuokatti Hills, 326 meters above sea level. The view over ...
fromPasi Korhonen,Outdoors Kainuu
Ski resort · Vuokatti-Sotkamo
Vuokatti Downhill Ski Resort, Finland
n.a.
Snow depth Mountain top
30cm
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The magical winter starts in Kainuu
The snow-covered, hilly landscape of Arctic Lakeland Kainuu welcomes visitors. The area is located in the northernmost part of Arctic Lakeland Kainuu, right on the border with Lapland, which guarantees that no time is spent on travelling.
The snow sure Kainuu offers a great setting for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, winter cycling, downhill skiing, snowboarding, ice fishing, and snowmobiling, as well as for sauna bathing and winter swimming. The network of hundreds of kilometres of cross-country skiing trails stretches over the hills and the icy lakes. For novice skiers and families, there are ski school services and easier trails on flat terrain, while more advanced enthusiasts can ski on more difficult cross-country skiing trails.
Husky safaris take visitors through the winter wonderland under the starry northern sky. On a frosty day, floating in a warm floating suit in the rapids feels magical and is an unforgettable experience. Wildlife such as wolves, wolverines and many birds can also be observed and photographed in the winter. Kainuu also has wilderness sites where you can enjoy the peace and silence under the starry skies. There are also a lot of indoor activities for the whole family: Vuokatti even has the world’s first ski tunnel which is open all year round.
- Harakkasaari sun ski trail 5 km, Kuhmo Finland
- Hepokangas ski tour 13 km, Kuhmo Finland
- Seipiniemen Sujaus multipurpose trail 6 km, Hossa Finland
- Rehja XC ice track 9 km, Kajaani Finland
- Vaara race tracks 7/9 km, Vuokatti Finland
Kuhmo is Finland’s most forested city full of historical stories and cultural events. It has been awarded the title of “City of Literature” by UNESCO for cherishing the heritage of the Finnish national epic “Kalevala”. In a way, the region is the cradle of the culture and identity of the Finnish people. The information centre for Kalevala and Karelian culture, “Juminkeko”, provides comprehensive information on Kalevala and Karelian culture. Juminkeo has constantly changing exhibitions. The Kuhmo City Library, which is located in the most magnificent location in Kuhmo, also hosts literary events and exhibitions.
In Kajaani, museums, an atmospheric city theater, concerts, cultural events, and dance arts, as well as the diverse range of services offered by the shops in the city centre, complement small nature excursions. There are several nature sites around the city centre, the most famous of which is the Kajaani Castle Ruins and the historical tar canal. Accommodation options include both Finland’s northernmost manor hotel and igloo accommodation. The river flowing through Kajaani and its nearby routes allows you to enjoy nature and relax in the middle of a peaceful natural cityscape.
Close your eyes, take a deep breath of fresh air, hear the sounds of nature, let the scents intoxicate. You are only one step away from "Vuokatti-zen". Peace of mind, forces of nature, hilly landscapes – is there a better place to be? You can experience Vuokatti by hiking, Nordic walking or cycling, or alternatively changing perspectives by jumping in a canoe and letting the currents take you on a new adventure. In winter, the snowy landscape over the hills is breath-taking, and the area’s businesses offer services for body and soul. In Vuokatti, you will find both several campfire sites and relaxing spas with smoke saunas.
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Spa House · Suomussalmi
Kiannon Kuohut Recreational Spa hotel, Suomussalmi Finland
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Nature Trail · Kuhmo
Kuhmo Lakeside trail 4.8 km, Kuhmo
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Nordic Walking · Vuokatti-Sotkamo
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Fortress · Finnish Lakeland
Kajaani castle ruins
Four Seasons of Arctic Lakeland Kainuu
Video:Kainuu
National parks and nature reserves in the Arctic Lakeland
Hossa National Park is the most famous protected area in the region. Its crystal-clear waters and the million-year-old canyon lake Julma-Ölkky, as well as the Stone Age rock paintings of Värikallio, fascinate all visitors. Extensive hiking, cycling and canoeing trails make Hossa National Park the ideal place to get to know the vast Taiga forests. Check out the VR video of how it feels to walk along the suspension bridge over the canyon lake here.
The Friendship Park, located mainly in the Kuhmo area, was founded 30 years ago to protect wilderness and, above all, the rare “wild forest reindeer”, which has its habitat here. The park consists of five separate nature reserves: Elimyssalo Nature Reserve, Lentua Nature Reserve, Iso-Palonen–Maariansärkät Nature Reserve, and Juortanansalo–Lapinsuo Mire Reserve. On the Russian side of the border, there is also Kostomuksha Strict Nature Reserve. In the Friendship Park, you will find deep forests, magnificent marshlands, and numerous lakes and ponds, and thus you will find authentic original borderland wilderness with its wildlife.
The Hiidenportti National Park, located in Sotkamo region, is named after the Hiidenportti gorge. The gorge landscape is an impressive sight. Along the path leading to the rugged cliffs, you can experience mysterious spruce forests, beautifully barren meadows, and the atmosphere of a swidden. In addition to the characteristic fragmented landscape of bogs and boreal forests, the area has primeval forest.
To the north of the national park in Palolampi, there is an information centre and a parking lot about a kilometre from the Hiidenportti gorge. On the eastern side in Urpovaara, along a non-maintained road, you can reach the starting point of a hiking trail, where there is also a lean-to shelter on the shores of Urpolampi pond. You can also enter the park either from southeast along the hiking trail by the Portinjoki River which starts from the Käärmesärkä parking area by the Valtimo–Kuhmo road, or from south along the hiking trail from Valtimo through Autiojärvi and Syrjä.
Hiidenportti is also suitable for novice hikers, student groups and other group excursions, but the services are not barrier-free. In winter, you can drive to the parking lot of Palolampi hut.
The Paljakka Strict Nature Reserve, one of the oldest protected forests in Europe, and Hepoköngäs, one of the highest free waterfalls in Finland, are excellent day trip destinations. In the nature reserve, there are large forest areas that have never been touched by logging activities – a rarity even in northern Finland. Visiting the area and its truly untouched nature will be an unforgettable experience.
Hiking route · Hiidenportti Nationalpark
Kitulankierros Trail 10,5 km, Hiidenportti National Park, Sotkamo Finland
Hiking route · Paljakka-Puolanka
Luonnonpuistonpolku - Nature park trail 6,5 km, Paljakka Finland
Hiking route · Paljakka-Puolanka
Hepoköngäs Waterfall Geopath 1,5 km, Paljakka Finland
The island of magnificent sandbanks, Ärjänsaari, is a nature reserve and recreational area in the middle of Lake Oulujärvi, also known as the pearl of Oulujärvi. Lake Oulujärvi is the fourth largest lake in Finland, which you can cross by steamboat or rental boat transport in summer. Landing on the sandy beaches of the island is also possible by renting a boat or a kayak. In winter, the island can be reached by skiing or snowmobiling across the frozen water.
From the high sand dunes of Ärjänsaari, you can admire the magnificent scenery of Lake Oulujärvi both in summer and in winter. There are several trails on the island, including a 10 km long route around the island. On Ärjänsaari, you can also go geocaching, berry picking, bird watching or petting the sheep in the summer pasture. On sunny summer days, you can relax on the fine sandy beach and listen to the waves. In addition to kayaking or canoeing, the waters are also suitable for parasailing and kite surfing. In winter, you can move around the island with skis or snowshoes.
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Canoeing · Kajaani
Canoeing around Ärjänsaari island 10 km, Kajaani Finland
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Hiking route · Kajaani
Ärjänsaari - Hiking around the island 10 km, Kajaani
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Nature reserve · Kajaani
Island Ärjä (Ärjänsaari), Kajaani Finland
Enjoying the summer and midnight sun
Kainuu offers a wide range of hiking destinations, nature trails and a wide range of activities in beautiful pure nature. In the lush forests, the beard lichen grows in the trees, the silence can be almost heard, and the swamps serve wonderful worlds of scents and colours. The wooded and lake-rich Kainuu is a perfect destination for outdoor activities and following the changes of seasons.
Various activities of the summer season
The summer months offer a unique atmosphere and a lot of things to try. Hiking, cycling, fishing, kayaking, standup paddleboarding, and berry picking are especially popular. Due to the midnight sun, the days are especially long, so active holidaymakers can spend time outdoors even around the clock. As the evenings get dark, the autumn colours of Arctic Lakeland Kainuu’s forests and swamps can be admired in fresh air by hiking or cycling, or by going berry or mushroom picking or photography touring.
There is a unique chance to go observing animals on guided tours or in hidden stalls. Wild Taiga Kuhmo-Suomussalmi is one of the few areas in Finland where it is possible to spot and photograph rare animals in their natural habitat. In addition to bears and wolves, you may catch a glimpse of moose, wild forest reindeer, flying squirrels, beavers, and some of the largest native birds of prey. The wildlife viewing season begins in late April, when bears awaken from their hibernation, and lasts until the end of October.
Bear Watching in Wild Taiga Finland
Video:Wildtaiga
The summer in Kainuu is consists of varied swimming trips and well-deserved moments of relaxation. The most famous sandy beaches in the area are Hiukka in Sotkamo, also known as the Riviera of Kainuu, and the coast of Ärjänsaari Island in the embrace of Lake Oulujärvi. In Kuhmo, unique sandy beaches can be found both in the town centre and in the wilderness. A visit to the Harakkasaari island is an adventure especially for families with children, as a small stretch of the way is crossed by wading in the water. The island has a new lean-to shelter and a campfire site. Harakkasaari is part of the Friendship Park and is located close to the services of Hotel Kalevala.
The steamship S/S Kouta is the northernmost still-operating inland steamship in Finland and Europe. Riding a 100-year-old iron lady, you can experience the atmosphere of days of yore and enjoy the summer lake scenery from Kajaani’s shores to Lake Oulujärvi. In summer, the ship M/S Kianta cruises in Suomussalmi to the home of the Finnish author Ilmari Kianto. Those who have a need for speed can get aboard the Vuokatti Speed Boat.
For golf enthusiasts, there are several courses for both experienced golfers and beginners. Katinkulta Golf’s Nuas Championship Course is an 18-hole classic framed by stunning hilly landscapes. Nominated as the most beautiful course in Finland several times, Paltamo Golf is located in a magnificent natural landscape, where cliffs, woods, and the outline of the beach have determined the location of the golf course. The city golf centre Kajaani Golf has an enjoyable 9-hole course just a few kilometres from the city centre.
Throughout the summer, Kainuu serves the most wonderful world-class music, dance, and sports events. The best known are the Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival, the Sommelo Ethno Music Festival and, as a new unique event, the "Joutsentanssi" – Kuhmo Dance Festival. In addition to festivals, there are music performances, art exhibitions, theatre performances, summer cafés, and other recreational events.
The small entrepreneurs have gathered local traditions and knowledge to offer visitors a unique experience. The key is to maintain a natural balance in line with sustainable tourism. Guided tours are available, for example, in the urban cultural environment and nature reserves, where you can get to know the life of great Finnish writers, hike with huskies, go trail running, or take part in a photography trip.
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Canoeing · Hossa National Park
Julma-Ölkky - Hossa Canoeing Route 16 km, Hossa National Park
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Hiking route · Arctic Lakeland Kainuu
Sininen polku - Särkkäjärvi Ring Route 16 km, Kuhmo Finland
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Hiking route · Vuokatti-Sotkamo
UKK-trail from Rönkkö to Vuokatti Sports Institute 11,4 km, Vuokatti Finland
Accessibility in Kainuu
Arctic Lakeland Kainuu is an accessible travel destination that combines unique landscapes with rolling hills, magnificent lakes, untouched wilderness, and lively tourist destinations and towns.
In winter, you can enjoy nature on groomed cross-country skiing tracks and on multi-purpose wilderness trails. During late spring, summer and autumn, unforgettable moments can be experienced both on land and in the water.
Find out more about Kainuu’s accessible nature below – adventure awaits!
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Arctic Lakeland Kainuu
TopicAccessible holidays in Arctic Lakeland Kainuu
Photo:Pasi Korhonen, CC BY-SA, Outdoors Kainuu
Authentic Experiences and Guided Tours
- from€49.00
Canoeing · Arctic Lakeland Kainuu
Canoeing at Lake Sarkinen
- from€49.00
Organized hiking · Arctic Lakeland Kainuu
Hiking at Vuokatinvaara fells
- from€150.00
Animals · Kuhmo
Bear, Wolverine and Wolf Night in Viiksimo, Kuhmo
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Destinations in Arctic Lakeland Kainuu
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Current Conditions
Webcams
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Webcam · Finnish Lakeland
Kajaani: Tie - Nuottijärvi - Kajaaniin
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Webcam · Land of National Parks, Finland
Suomussalmi: Tie5 - Palovaara - Tienpinta
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Webcam · Finnish Lakeland
Hyrynsalmi: Tie5 - Tienpinta
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Webcam · Finnish Lakeland
Hyrynsalmi: Tie - Istonpitkä - Kajaaniin
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Webcam · Finnish Lakeland
Paltamo: Tie5 Kontiomaki - Tienpinta
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Webcam · Finnish Lakeland
Paltamo: Tie - Kontiomäki - Kuusamoon
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Webcam · Finnish Lakeland
Puolanka: Tie - Törmänmäki - Kajaaniin
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Webcam · Finnish Lakeland
Kuusamo: Tie800 Puokio - Tienpinta
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Webcam · Finnish Lakeland
Puolanka: Tie 800 - Puokio - Vaalaan
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Webcam · Finnish Lakeland
Puolanka: Tie 800 - Puokio - Puolankaan
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Webcam · Finnish Lakeland
Sotkamo: Tie - Vuokatti - Sotkamoon
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Webcam · Finnish Lakeland
Puolanka: Tie - Törmänmäki - Puolangalle
Show all Webcams in Arctic Lakeland Kainuu
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Reviews
18
Deep blue lakes and green forests in Finnish Lakeland by Stine Lise
April 07, 2024 · Community
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Vuokatti-Leivolankylä Winter Trail 7,4 km, Vuokatti Finland by Juha
March 05, 2024 · Community
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Vienan reitti by Anne
January 25, 2024 · Community
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