Kuusamo is in the northernmost corner of Ostrobothnia, whose popularity as a tourist destination is due to its spectacular national parks and excellent winter sports opportunities. You can spend your holiday in Kuusamo any time of year, from a summer hiking trip to Oulanka National Park in Karhunkierros to rushing through the slopes of the Ruka Ski Resort in winter, which are wonderfully suitable for the active traveller.
Nature and outdoor activities are the main Kuusamo tourist attractions and, from the traveller's point of view, the most important accommodation offerings are limited to accommodation and basic services. So do not stay on paved streets, but continue straight to Kuusamo’s highest peak, also known as RUKATUNTURI. Ruka has 34 downhill slopes, which cater to every visitor with an appropriate level. Also noteworthy is the established Ruka Village where you can stay, eat and rent skis and skiing equipment.
Travel to Kuusamo is easy for groups of friends, as well as the whole family. In Ruka Village, everything is within walking distance, and you'll get to be with your friends and enjoy the après-ski offerings, such as the nightclubs. A family on holiday will appreciate the child-friendly Rosa & Rudolf Children’s Land and Kaltiolampi Children's Land where, in addition to the easy slopes, there is fun for the whole family. If you enjoy doing stunts and jumps with varying degrees of difficulty, then Ruka Battery Park is a destination that would suit you best.
Kuusamo Airport is operated by scheduled and charter flights, and the airport has good bus connections to the Ruka ski slopes. However, the nearest train stations are located in Oulu and Rovaniemi. With your own car, you can travel swiftly from the Ruka base parking areas to the national forest parks. A car is not necessary, however, as you can also take the bus from the centre of Kuusamo to ski or to the Karhunkierros Trail in Oulanka National Park.
A Kuusamo holiday is considered to be, in the opinion of many Karhunkierros, among the best experiences by many in one form or another. Called Finland's most popular hiking trail, it is suitable for both experienced hikers, as well as those simply seeking outdoor pursuits. So, go courageously and roam the various terrains of the national park. The entire route length is 80 kilometres, but you can also go on a shorter hike. Along the route, you will see the Oulanka Canyon, Kiutaköngäs and Jyrävä falls and Kitkajoki, which you can cross over a suspension bridge.
The Karhunkierros high season is in July and August and the Ruka slopes attract people from October to May, so the most likely way to find a cheap trip to Kuusamo is in early summer or autumn. In addition to well-known nature and sports sites, you can also go on a rafting trip on the Kitkajoki, or try your luck fishing in the Kuusamo River. If you have previously visited Oulanka National Park and the Karhunkierros tour, check out the Riisitunturi National Park. It is a fantastic hiking destination in summer and winter.
Kuusamo is a great place to visit for anyone who enjoys open air and unspoilt nature. If, in addition to the ski slopes and the hotel, you would like to see Finland’s rugged nature, then Kuusamo is calling you.
