When the leaves start to change colour and the air is permeated with that typical freshness, "Ruska" - the autumn season - begins in Finland. While people tend to associate snow and ice with the Nordic country, they often forget that autumn also has its advantages. And with it comes some very special experiences.

Aurora times two

The Aurora Borealis phenomenon is visible in the Finnish sky from September to March. However, the northern lights are at their peak around the equinox, in spring and autumn. In addition, in autumn the Finnish lakes are not yet frozen. This creates a reflection on the water surfaces that makes for breathtakingly beautiful photos. Four-hour Aurora Borealis Express Hikes are available from 125 Euro at Inari Saariselkä available.

Hotel recommendation:

From the "Eagle View Suite" of the luxurious Hotel Iso-Syöte you can enjoy wonderful views of the natural spectacle thanks to the glass ceiling and floor-to-ceiling glass walls. 

Arctic Hilltop Boutique Hotel Iso-Syöte
Isosyötteentie 246, 93280 Syöte, Finland
Tel: +358 201 476 400
hotelli-isosyote.fi

Time out at the lake

More than 188,000 natural lakes form the Finnish Lake District. The labyrinth of waters, islands and canals, which is a popular destination for Finns and tourists alike in summer, sinks into peaceful silence in autumn. If you want to switch off, then you're in the right place. The forests around the lakes glow in all their colours in the clear autumn air. What could be better than enjoying this splendour from a mountain bike or boat? For the latter, a week-long cruise with Saimaa Boating starts at 900 euros. A boat licence is not necessary, but a captain can be booked on request. saimaboating.fi

Hotel recommendation:

The largest lake in Finland is Lake Saimaa. On its shores there are many accommodations that offer guests a holiday by the water with great views and plenty of tranquility. For example, Hotel & Spa Järvisydän awaits its guests in an authentic style.

Hotel & Spa Järvisydän
Porosalmentie 313, 58900 Rantasalmi, Finland
Tel: +358 20 729 1760
jarvisydan.com.

Wild hikes

Lapland - that evokes associations with sled dogs, reindeer and Santa Claus. In fact, the barren natural landscape is beautiful even in autumn. It is considered the last wilderness in Europe and is even more impressive during Ruska than under a blanket of snow. The best place to experience the changing seasons is in the 2,550-square-kilometre Urho Kekkonen National Park. Numerous marked hiking trails criss-cross Finland's second largest national park. In addition to routes for experienced hikers, there are also routes for those who enjoy walking. It gets really authentic when you spend your nights in a tent.

Adventure Tip

The "Gold Rush Autumn" Hike by Wild Hikes Finland leads through Lemmenjöki National Park. An experienced guide, all camping equipment, three meals per day and airport transfers to and from Ivalo airport are included in the weekly price of 1,250 euros/person. wildhikesfinland.com

Collect superfoods

Hunting, fishing and foraging still influence the food culture in Finland today. No wonder, after all, survival in the sometimes quite harsh northern environment depended on it for thousands of years. Foraging and gathering berries, mushrooms and fresh herbs is therefore a popular hobby during harvest time. It is favoured by the "everyman's right" in the Finnish forests. This means that almost anything can be picked and taken home. Wild Nordic Finland offers an extensive Mushroom picking tour . The five-hour trip takes you through the famous Punkaharju Ridge Area and costs from 107 euros. wildnordic.fi

Restaurant tip

At Nolla Restaurant in Helsinki, sustainable and regional products form the basis for delicious seasonal organic menus. The innovative "zero waste" concept guarantees that no surplus ingredients are thrown away. 

Restaurant Nolla
Fredrikinkatu 22, 00120 Helsinki, Finland
Tel: +358 40 163 9313
restaurantnolla.com