Knocking on Nature's Door

Nuuksio National Park is a peaceful place to enjoy nature just outside the capital. This car park provides access to the national park, and there are information boards that outline the different hikes you can do from this point.

Korpinkierros is just one of many marked hiking trails starting at this point. Each trail ranges from two to seven kilometres and takes you through the lush forest and around several glistening lakes.
Swimming is permitted in all the lakes, so pack your swimsuit just in case you feel like a dip. If you're lucky, you might spot a deer or the elusive Siberian flying squirrel on your walk.

The restaurant at Haltia Finnish Nature Centre is set up as a buffet for lunch, so you can serve yourself from a variety of salads, soups, desserts, and usually hot dishes featuring salmon or game meat such as reindeer or elk.
The best spot to enjoy your lunch is out on the balcony, overlooking the forest and lake. If you have extra time, the nature centre also has a gift shop and exhibitions that are worth checking out.
Opening hours may change seasonally, so check the website in advance.

Once you've had your lunch, go down the road to Nuuksio Reindeer Park, where you can feed some reindeer their lunch. These majestic creatures will walk right up to you once you've been handed a bucket of lichen, their favourite food. You can hand-feed the reindeer while the enthusiastic staff share some interesting facts and stories with you. Your entrance price includes a hot drink and pastry that you can cook over a campfire.
Check the Nuuksio Reindeer Park website for seasonal opening hours and ticket information.
After you finish your visit, the road leads to Turku.

This 700-year-old castle is one of the most enduring buildings in Finland. Its construction started in the 12th century, when Sweden colonized parts of Finland. However, it was bombed in 1941. Thankfully, restoration began after the end of World War II and was completed in the 1980s. Today it's an interesting museum for learning about the history of Finland, Sweden, and other Nordic countries.
Check seasonal opening hours and ticket prices on the Turku Castle website.

Check into the Radisson Blu Marina Palace Hotel, which is idyllically located on the Aura River.

Enjoy a sundowner as you watch over the city skyline from Walo Rooftop Bar. This vibrant bar changes its drink list seasonally to match changing tastes and atmosphere influenced by the weather. To toast your drink, say "kippis," which means "cheers" in Finnish.

In a casual dining atmosphere, the cuisine offers a delightful surprise, impressing with its creativity. With 25 years in the restaurant industry, Jaana Vuorenpää ensures the quality of the dishes and a pleasant experience. The homely and functional interior adds to the charm of the restaurant, and its location next to the River Aura provides a great setting for a memorable dining experience.
As Blanko is a popular destination, particularly during the summer months, it is highly recommended that you book a table in advance.

Get cosy back at the hotel, where the rooms are furnished in an understated, luxurious style. If you need some extra relaxation before bed, the hotel has three saunas available for use.