- Join a guided tour through Koli National Park and discover spectacular scenery and the most famous panoramic views from its highest points
- Spend time in the vibrant university town of Joensuu
- Visit the old town of Nurmes with its historical wooden buildings. Founded in 1876 by Tsar Alexander II
- Enjoy the thrills of white water rafting on the River Lieksanjoki, which winds for 30 kilometres through wild forests, placid lakes, and six sets of raging rapids
Best of North Karelia Fly-Drive
***Finnair flights from the UK to Joensuu via Helsinki are now available***
Densely forested and wonderfully remote, the region of Karelia spans across Finland and Russia and has a distinct culture, language, cuisine and architecture.
On this fly-drive holiday you will spend time exploring Lake Pielinen, Finland’s fourth largest lake, delve into all things cultural at Koli Sculpture Garden, and experience sculptor Eva Ryynänen's work in the beautiful surroundings of Lieksa.
Karelia is a paradise for nature fanatics so head out on hikes in stunning national parks, enjoy white water rafting and embark on an exciting wildlife-watching night where bears and wolverines may be spotted.
Tour Itinerary
Fly to Joensuu, the regional capital of North Karelia. Upon arrival collect your hire car, drive to your hotel and check in for one night.
After a hearty breakfast, drive to Koli National park and set off on a guided tour at the discovery of its spectacular scenery and nature. Admire stunning panoramic views from Ukko-Koli, Akka-Koli and Paha-Koli hills and see Lake Pielinen 250 metres below you. Visit Koli Nature Centre Ukko and Koli Sculpture Park, a unique art attraction featuring sculptures made by Lasse Martikainen. Overnight in Koli National Park area. (B,D) (75Km)
Drive towards the village of Juuka and en route opt for a visit at the Finnish Stone Center in Nunnanlahti. Continue to the town of Nurmes and spend the rest of the day strolling around its old centre 'Puu-Nurmes' - also known as one of the best-preserved wooden house areas in Finland. Overnight at your hotel in Nurmes.(B) (170Km)
Today, enter the Ruunaa area and embark on a thrilling rafting excursion over the rapids of Lieksanjoki river. In the afternoon, reach your accommodation in Lieksa and check in for 1 night. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner and relax in a Finnish sauna afterwards. (B,L,D) (55Km)
After breakfast, visit the famous sculptor Eva Ryynänen`s atelier, Paateri timber church and former house and café. All the buildings are designed by the artist and within them you can admire her work, sculptures, carvings and unique structures and furnishings. Continue to Uuronlampi Observation lodges and get ready for a wildlife-watching night in your observation cabin. (55Km) (B, Snacks for the wildlife-watching night)
Drive back to Joensuu. On arrival, opt to spend the day visiting the many museums in town as 'Botania', the most Nordic botanical butterfly gardens in the world, or Joensuu Art Museum Onni, located near the market square and displaying permanent exhibitions including Finnish art from 1850s to modern days. Overnight at your hotel in Joensuu. (B) (95Km)
Today transfer to the airport, return your hire car and fly back to the UK. (B)
Pricing Information
Price Includes
- Return international flights between the UK and Joensuu vie Helsinki
- All airport taxes and security charges
- 6 nights accommodation in various hotels and guesthouses
- Car Hire (Volkswagen Polo or similar)
- Excursions and entrance fees as stated in the itinerary
- Meals as specified by BLD (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
Price Excludes
- Tips & gratuities
- Additional excursions
- Additional meals
- Travel Insurance
- Transfers not specified in the itinerary
Price Includes
Price Excludes
Price Notes
- Price per adult is based on two people sharing on stays between May and Sep 2025 and there may be supplements for travel in peak season of flight fare fluctuations - please ask your Regent Specialist for details.
Tour Route Map
- Finland, Joensuu
- Finland, Juuka
- Finland, Nurmes
- Finland, Lieksa
- Finland, Joensuu
Image Gallery
