{"id":31446,"date":"2026-03-02T12:58:07","date_gmt":"2026-03-02T10:58:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.koli.fi\/?page_id=31446"},"modified":"2026-03-10T12:27:58","modified_gmt":"2026-03-10T10:27:58","slug":"journey","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.koli.fi\/en\/journey\/","title":{"rendered":"Into the Mythical: The Heart of Karelia & Kalevala"},"content":{"rendered":"

Into the Mythical: The Heart of Karelia & Kalevala<\/h2>\n\n\n

This 8-day self-drive itinerary invites you to explore the hidden gems of North Karelia at your own pace\u2014from the peaceful charm of Juuka to the iconic landscapes of Koli and the cultural richness of Nurmes. Along the way, you\u2019ll hike through national parks, cruise across Lake Pielinen, relax in lakeside saunas, and stay in a wildlife observation cabin deep in the forest. Each day blends local experiences, natural beauty, and moments of true Finnish serenity, making for a journey that\u2019s as enriching as it is rejuvenating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Season: <\/em><\/strong>May-October<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Accommodation options: <\/em><\/strong>Hotel, Guest House, Cottage<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Price: <\/em><\/strong>from 879\u20ac \/ person. The price is calculated for 2 persons staying in a double room at hotels excluding transportation\/rental car costs.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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The length of stay, activities, and type of accommodation can be adjusted according to your wishes. Get in touch with the sales team of Kolin Matkailu\/Koli DMC and request a tailor-made package at sales@koli.fi.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Contact us<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Arrival<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Arriving in Mystical Finland is easy and smooth. From Helsinki<\/strong>, you can reach Joensuu<\/strong> by a short 1-hour flight or enjoy a scenic 5-hour train journey through Finland\u2019s beautiful lake and forest landscapes. In Joensuu, you can rent a car and begin your self-drive adventure towards the peaceful nature, national parks, and authentic experiences of North Karelia at your own pace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Check flight schedules<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Train schedules and tickets<\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Rental cars<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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DAY 1: WELCOME TO JUUKA<\/h6>\n\n\n\n

Start your self-drive tour around Lake Pielinen in the Old Town of Puu-Juuka.<\/strong><\/a> Settle into the tranquil rhythm of Juuka, a welcoming village where tradition meets charm. Stroll its quaint streets and enjoy your first taste of North Kare\u00adlia\u2019s warm hospitality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n