Ruska – The Colours of Arctic Autumn

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop plants and trees offer a stunning display of red, orange, yellow and purple hues known as "ruska" in Finnish. Discover Finland's national parks to experience the beauty of the autumn foliage season, which typically starts in early September and moves from the north to the south at the speed of 500 kilometres in just a couple of weeks.

Although the snowy season may not begin as early as October, the Northern Lights wait for no one, as they could be seen dancing boldly across the skies on dark, clear nights. With a stroke of luck, one might witness two auroras as the sparkling lights reflect in the inky black waters of the lakes.

If one is tired of waiting until December to catch Santa in action, a visit to the Santa Claus Village in autumn reveals him busy preparing for the festive season. From perfecting his iconic belly laughs to testing out new sleigh manoeuvres, Santa is hard at work ensuring everything is ready for the big night. And of course, with fewer visitors around, it’s the perfect opportunity to share early Christmas wishes.

Here, for a fleeting moment, embrace our recommendations to capture the essence of the season:

1. Berry Picking

In late August and September, berry bushes bear their fruits proudly after working hard all summer long. Bilberries, cloudberries, lingonberries, raspberries, cranberries and even mushrooms are common sights in the wilderness. Joining organised tours ensures the safe enjoyment of their flavours while also offering insights into these treasures and preserving their ecosystem, all in alignment with sustainability.

2.  Santa Claus Village

While we would all love to hang out with Father Christmas in his office, remember he's got his hands full with festive prep. But fear not! Santa Claus Village is bursting with whimsical wonders waiting to be discovered. Send a postcard from Santa’s post office, meet Santa's trusty reindeer who have faithfully pulled his sleigh for years, or dive into a crash course at the renowned "Elf School" in Santa Park, a mere 1.5 km away from Santa Claus Village, and embark on the journey to become one of Santa's cherished helpers!

3.  Northern Lights

Mostly associated with winter, the Northern Lights are actually most active during autumn. With less cloud cover, more intense geomagnetic activity and the breathtaking sight of autumn leaves in the Arctic, it's the perfect time to experience their splendour. Travelling early in the season also means snow-free roads and fewer crowds, alongside greater accommodation availability at off-peak prices.

4.  Suomenlinna

Suomenlinna, "Fortress of Finland," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site symbolising Helsinki's maritime history. Initially constructed by the Swedes in the 18th century for defence, it became a vital naval base for the Russian Empire after Finland's cession in 1809. Today, visitors can explore its well-preserved military structures, offering glimpses into its history. Accessible only by water, a 15–20 minute ferry ride to Suomenlinna offers stunning views of Helsinki and its surroundings from the sea.

5.  Husky Farm

Upon arrival at the Husky farm, visitors are immediately drawn into a world of boundless energy and enthusiasm. Welcomed by the friendly barks and wagging tails of the huskies, the experience begins with an instant connection to these lovely and charming creatures. Seize the opportunity to pet the dogs, hear stories about husky life, and delve into the rich history of these remarkable animals. This is a haven and inspiring place for dog lovers!

6.  Glass Igloos

Imagine admiring the twinkling of the bright starry sky and the beauty of the Northern Lights from the comfort of a cosy bed in a glass igloo room. With a thermal glass roof and/or walls, the space is ideal for every season, whether it's the midnight sun, colourful autumn foliage, or mesmerising aurora nights. Owing to the unique experiences they offer, these rooms are in high demand and must be booked well in advance.

Ruska invites all to witness the magic and poetic experience of nature, savouring the magical moments that unfold before us. These experiences connect us to the rhythms of the wilderness and the timeless allure of Finland's wonders.

Our dedicated DMC travel experts can advise and craft customised tour packages with full destination management based on your customer's interests, preferences, or needs.