Snow-covered forests, quiet lakes and the warmth of a Finnish sauna. In Kuhmo, winter brings you close to nature. And to the people, stories and traditions that make this part of Finland special.
Located in Arctic Lakeland in eastern Finland, Kuhmo combines outdoor adventures with a rich cultural life. Whether you enjoy being active, discovering local traditions or simply slowing down, there is more than one way to spend your winter holiday here.
Find your own way into winter
Glide along cross-country ski trails, explore the forest on snowshoes or try ice fishing with a local guide. Discover winter activities in Kuhmo, from easy-paced outings for beginners to longer adventures for experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
For a different perspective, try floating down the Pajakkakoski rapids, wrapped in a protective rescue suit. Or join a guided snowshoe tracking tour to follow animal tracks through the snow and learn how wildlife adapts to the northern winter.
There is time for quieter moments, too. Stop for a warm drink beside a campfire, listen to the forest and enjoy a day without a crowded schedule.
Discover the stories behind the landscape
In Kuhmo, nature and culture are closely connected. The forests have inspired artists, musicians and storytellers for generations, and that relationship is still part of local life.
Among those drawn here was Finnish artist Akseli Gallen-Kallela, who visited Kuhmo on his honeymoon while seeking inspiration for his Kalevala paintings. In the village of Rimpi, he met a local man known as Rimmin Uljaska, who became his model for Väinämöinen, the legendary figure from Finland’s national epic.
Today, Kuhmo is a UNESCO City of Literature, where this heritage continues to inspire cultural life. Explore the world of the Kalevala at Juminkeko, discover local wartime history at the Winter War Museum, or admire the wooden architecture of Kuhmo Arts Centre and the city library.
For a closer encounter with local culture, join a guided tour of Kuhmo, get creative in a bear-themed art workshop, or enjoy traditional kantele music and storytelling. Contact the providers in advance to arrange your experience.
Warm up with sauna and local flavours
After a day outdoors, step into the warmth of a Finnish sauna. Enjoy the saunas at Hotel Kalevala, take your time in the gentle heat and cool down in the fresh winter air.
Local food offers another way to get to know Kuhmo. Visit Kaesa Café and Bakery for a traditional rönttönen pastry, fresh bread and a warming cup of coffee. Explore Kuhmo’s local food traditions and discover flavours from the surrounding forests and lakes at local restaurants.
Good food, a warm welcome and time together are simple pleasures that make a winter stay memorable.
Rönttönen. Harri Tarvainen.
A holiday with room for different interests
You do not have to choose between nature and culture in Kuhmo. Spend one day exploring snowy trails and another discovering local culture, visiting museums or enjoying the town’s cafés and shops.
Find your place to stay, from a hotel to a cosy cottage or a private villa. Choose a ready-made holiday package or plan your stay around the experiences that interest you most.
Your winter escape is closer than you think
Reaching Kuhmo in Arctic Lakeland is becoming easier, with international flights to nearby Kajaani Airport.
From France: Fly directly from Paris-Orly to Kajaani with Transavia during winter 2026–2027, with Saturday flights from 12 December to 20 March.
From the Netherlands: Discover Kuhmo with a TUI holiday package, including flights from Rotterdam to Kajaani, accommodation at Hotel Kalevala and airport transfers.
From Germany: Plan ahead for winter 2027–2028, when Discover Airlines will launch direct flights from Frankfurt to Kajaani. Flights begin on 17th December 2027, with tickets available from December 2026. Read more about the new Frankfurt connection.
Via Helsinki: Finnair operates daily flights from Helsinki to Kajaani, offering connections for international travellers arriving in Finland’s capital.
By train: Enjoy the Finnish scenery on a train journey with VR from Helsinki or other Finnish cities to Kajaani. Continue to Kuhmo by bus, rental car or a pre-booked transfer.
Check onward connections and airport transfer arrangements with your accommodation provider or tour operator, and look forward to snowy adventures, Finnish culture and a warm welcome in Kuhmo.