Season
Sep - Nov
Vehicle
By car
Duration
3 days
Length
320 km
3-Day Autumn Adventure in the Finnish Lakeland
This 3-Day travel plan in the autumnal Jyväskylä Region will take you on a 320 km road-trip through Jyväskylä’s main attractions, two national parks, saunas and cosy accommodations. You will get the must-have autumn experiences like hiking, marvelling at the autumn colours, City of Light installations, sauna and star gazing in the dark of fall. If you are lucky, you might even spot the famous Northern lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, which make an appearance on average every 4-5 nights in the region. The itinerary includes restaurant & accommoation suggestions, but feel free to modify the travel plan to fit your preferences and budget.
Note, that some stops in the itinerary might not be open every day of the week, so make sure to check opening hours beforehand.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact the Jyväskylä Region Tourist Office at [email protected] / +358 145690113.
Transportation: This plan requires a car. Rent an ecological eCar
– Avis
– Omago
– Electric car charging locations on a map
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Route description
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Day 1
Start your day by exploring one or more of the museums! In the Craft Museum of Finland, you can delve into the history of Finnish craftsmanship. At Aalto2 Museum Centre, you can experience the life and work of architect Alvar Aalto and dive into the history of the region. For art lovers, a visit to the Art Museum showcasing contemporary Finnish art, is a must.
For lunch, you can choose from the many restaurant options by the main street ‘Kauppakatu’.
In the afternoon, make your way to the Harju Observation Tower, offering a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding parks, all dressed in autumn’s finest colours. Stop by the Natural History Museum, located on the bottom floor of the building.
As the sun sets, it’s time to explore Jyväskylä’s unique light art installations. Venture on the City of Light -walking route for the best installations. If you happen to visit during the City of Light event, you are in for a treat! The annual celebration of light offers stunning light installations and a huge number of side events. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the northern lights, which can make an appearance during the late autumn nights.
For dinner, indulge in a delightful meal at one of the city’s renowned restaurants, such as Hiisi Taproom & Bottleshop, Harmooni, or the historic Kuokkala Manor, where you can enjoy Finnish cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
After a full day of culture and exploration, stay overnight in Jyväskylä or, if you prefer, head out into the surrounding countryside for a peaceful retreat.
Kuva: Atacan Ergin Attractions
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Day 2
On your second day, immerse yourself in Finland’s stunning natural landscapes. Pack your backpack with outdoor lunch ingredients and choose between two of the region’s national parks: Leivonmäki in Joutsa and Pyhä-Häkki in Saarijärvi. In Leivonmäki National Park, you’ll find trails that lead you through varied landscapes, from ridge tops to lakes and bogs, offering spectacular views that showcase the beauty of autumn in Finland. If you prefer a forest experience, head to Pyhä-Häkki National Park, where you can wander among ancient pine forests, some of which are over 500 years old. The tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking fall colours make both parks perfect for a day of hiking and exploring.
If you choose Pyhä-Häkki, consider stopping for food at Ruustinna in Saarijärvi. If you decide to head south to Leivonmäki, Karoliinan Kestikievari is a great spot for refueling.
After your outdoor adventure, unwind and relax in the traditional Finnish way at Sataman Viilu, a modern sauna restaurant in the Jyväskylä harbour. The sauna experience is an integral part of Finnish culture, and there’s no better way to rejuvenate after a day of hiking.
For dinner, stay at Sataman Viilu or head to the city centre for more restaurant options.
Photo: Jukka Paakkinen Attractions
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Day 3
On your final day, make your way to Southern Konnevesi National Park, one of the region’s most picturesque locations, where the stunning Kalajankierros Trail awaits. This trail offers some of the most spectacular views in the area, with its sweeping vistas of the sparkling lake and rugged forests. It’s an autumn hiker’s paradise, so don’t forget to bring along snacks to fuel your journey as you soak in the beauty around you.
After the hike, treat yourself to one of the best meals in the region at Grill Room Hankasalmi, renowned for serving some of the best burgers in Finland.
For your final night, choose from a range of cozy accommodations to suit your preference. Stay at Revontuli Lakeland Village, where you can sleep under the stars in a glass igloo, or opt for a more rustic experience at Luontovire Lumous Forest Hut for a peaceful night in the woods. If you prefer a more traditional Finnish farm stay, Rantakorpi Farm offers a charming, rural experience that’s ideal for those seeking authenticity and tranquillity. These remote locations also offer a great chance to spot the famous auroras in the night sky.
Photo: Hanna-Kaisa Hämäläinen Attractions
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