In the charming Lakeland Villages, everyday life slows down and the simple beauty of nature surrounds you. In the heart of Finnish Lakeland, just a short distance from Tampere, the travel destinations of Kangasala, Kuhmoinen, and Pälkäne offer the original authenticity of Finland — a peaceful region of lakes, forests, and countryside where every visitor is welcome, just as they are.
Whether you’re a nature lover, culture seeker, family traveler, or someone looking for pure relaxation, these villages are filled with meaningful experiences. Paddle across quiet lakes, cycle scenic routes, explore forests, enjoy authentic local flavours, discover hidden gems, or spend time together with friends and family. The region is also ideal for group holidays, where shared experiences from cultural events to outdoor adventures bring people closer together. In Lakeland Villages, you’ll find space to recharge, explore, and share unforgettable moments — all in a setting where small encounters, nature, and local traditions create a holiday that feels truly your own. Here are six ways to enjoy Lakeland Villages in summer.
1. On the Lake – Explore the Waters of Lakeland Villages
The shimmering lakes of Kangasala, Kuhmoinen, and Pälkäne invite you to leave the everyday behind and discover the peaceful beauty of Finnish nature. The best way to experience these waters is by kayak, canoe, or boat, drifting between islands or stopping for a swim along the quiet shores. You can set off on your own or choose ready-made paddling routes, with campfire sites and even floating saunas along the way. If you want to extend the adventure, overnight stays in Tentsile tree tents bring a whole new meaning to sleeping under the stars. For those who prefer comfort by the lake, spacious villas, sandy beaches, and lakeside saunas are ready to welcome you.
Lake Escape Destinations offers an easy way to explore the lakes of the region with a wide network of paddling routes, camping islands, and unique sauna experiences. You can plan your own adventure by canoe, kayak, or e-fatbike, and even spend the night in a Tentsile tree tent surrounded by nature. For those seeking lakeside comfort, Uotila Villas and Cottages provide high-quality accommodation on the peaceful shores of Lake Roine, with private beaches, child-friendly swimming areas, excellent fishing, and traditional saunas — the perfect setting for relaxation, family holidays, or a lakeside retreat close to nature.
2. Cycling Adventures – Discover Lakeland Villages on Two Wheels
Cycling through Lakeland Villages is more than just a way to travel — it’s a journey through peaceful countryside, forest landscapes, and along shimmering lakeshores. Quiet roads and scenic trails lead you to inspiring viewpoints, charming cafés, and hidden beaches where you can pause and soak in the surroundings. The region’s Lake Trails offer a glimpse of Finland’s most beautiful nature and an unforgettable journey for all nature lovers — hop on your bike and escape into enchanting tranquility, surrounded by lush forests and crystal-clear waters. For those looking for a challenge, hilly routes reward cyclists with sweeping views of Finland’s iconic landscapes, while forest paths offer a thrilling ride through nature. The region offers the perfect mix of relaxed cycling routes and adrenaline-filled mountain biking adventures.
The Roine Cycling Route takes you along the peaceful waves of Lake Roine, with national landscapes that have inspired Finnish artists and dreamers for generations. The route offers charming cafés, sandy beaches, and scenic viewpoints, with the option to combine your journey with lake cruises for a different perspective. Längelmävesi shines along the Längelmä Cycling Route, where romantic countryside, clear waters, and art destinations await. Along the way, cyclists can explore rural villages, visit local art studios, and enjoy the relaxed rhythm of life in Pirkanmaa’s heartland. For those seeking adventure, Kuhmoinen’s extensive mountain bike trails offer up to 65 kilometres of forest routes, ranging from easy loops to demanding climbs and thrilling downhill sections, with peaceful rest spots and overnight options along the way. If you’re after high-speed excitement, Sappee Bike Park is Finland’s most popular downhill cycling centre, with well-maintained tracks for all skill levels, bike rentals, and panoramic views of the surrounding forests. And for a break from the saddle, Vehoniemi Car Museum in Kangasala offers a unique detour along the scenic Roine Route, with Finland’s largest collection of vintage vehicles set against a peaceful lakeside landscape. Their cosy café and in-house ice cream factory are also well worth a visit.
3. Family Moments – Discover Lakeland Villages Together
In Lakeland Villages, life’s little joys are best experienced together, making the region an ideal destination for families. Whether you’re exploring the lakes, wandering forest trails, or discovering local attractions, every moment becomes more memorable when enjoyed with loved ones. Children can learn through play, explore peaceful nature or meet animals up close at the region’s many countryside animal farms. Safe surroundings, friendly villages, and endless opportunities for outdoor fun ensure that every family member finds their perfect way to enjoy the holiday.
A visit to Mobilia, the Finnish Museum of Car and Road, is a fun and educational experience for the whole family. Located on a beautiful lakeshore in Kangasala, the museum features classic cars, Finland’s road history, and a Rally Museum, while younger visitors can enjoy the popular summer traffic park and even try operating a mini excavator. For a convenient stay nearby, Hotel Kuohu offers comfortable, family-friendly accommodation in the centre of Kangasala, just a 15-minute drive from Tampere city centre. The hotel provides modern self-catering rooms and easy access to the area’s lakes, nature, and cultural sites.
4. Taste the Culture – Flavours and Traditions of Lakeland Villages
The flavours of the Finnish countryside come to life in Lakeland Villages. Local traditions, fresh ingredients, and heartfelt hospitality can be experienced in summer cafés, farm shops, bistros, and markets. Enjoy regional delicacies, homemade pastries, or seasonal dishes that celebrate the bounty of Finnish nature. Alongside the food culture, art and history play a central role. From exhibitions to artist studios, the villages offer authentic encounters with Finnish creativity and craftsmanship in beautiful rural settings.
A visit to Rönnvik Wine Estate in Pälkäne offers the perfect combination of local flavours and countryside charm. One of Finland’s most awarded wineries, Rönnvik invites guests to enjoy seasonal dishes in their cozy bistro, taste wines made from Finnish berries, and browse the estate’s shop filled with artisan products and regional delicacies. In Kangasala, the Kimmo Pyykkö Art Museum showcases high-quality Finnish art with three temporary exhibitions each year, alongside a permanent collection by the renowned sculptor himself. The museum is located within the award-winning Kangasala Arts Centre, offering a cultural experience right in the heart of town. For those who love art with a countryside atmosphere, Taidepappila Art Center in Kuhmalahti is a hidden gem set in a historic 19th-century vicarage. Visitors can enjoy exhibitions and workshops, all while exploring the beautiful grounds and learning about the life and work of ceramic artist Teemu Luoto.
5. Hidden Gems – Small Moments that Create Big Memories
It’s often the unexpected stops and quiet corners that create the best memories. Lakeland Villages are filled with hidden gems — peaceful farmyards, cozy cafés, craft shops, and countryside spots that reveal themselves to those who slow down and explore beyond the main routes. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh berries, homemade treats, and the welcoming atmosphere of village life. Simple moments, shared conversations and the rhythm of everyday life are what make these hidden treasures truly special.
Suttinen Berry Farm is a true countryside gem, where visitors can enjoy the flavours of summer straight from the fields. The farm shop is filled with fresh berries, vegetables, and Finnish delicacies, while the cosy attic craft area offers handmade gifts and décor. Families will love the playful outdoor area, meeting farm animals, and exploring the maize maze that opens at the end of the season.
Another hidden gem for those who appreciate craftsmanship is Roselli, known worldwide for their premium knives and axes. Roselli combines traditional blacksmith skills with decades of innovation, and each knife is handcrafted in Finland using their unique steel, designed for extreme durability and long-lasting sharpness. Their shop is located in Kuhmoinen, where visitors can explore the collection and experience true Finnish craftsmanship up close. The family name proudly marks every handle — a symbol of quality that lasts a lifetime.
6. In the Forest – Recharge in Finland’s Peaceful Wilderness
The forests of Lakeland Villages are an open invitation to unwind, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature. Ancient woodlands, peaceful ridges, and hidden lakes provide endless opportunities to hike, explore, and enjoy the outdoors. Trails of varying lengths lead through wild landscapes, offering space for quiet reflection or active adventure. Whether wandering alone, with family or as part of a guided group, the forests are the perfect place to recharge your body and mind.
Isojärvi National Park in Kuhmoinen offers hikers the chance to explore peaceful forests, rolling hills, and hidden valleys shaped by both humans and nature. Old logging routes lead to former lumberjack cabins, while beavers have left their mark along the lake shores, creating a unique landscape to discover. For guided nature experiences closer to Kangasala, Pilates ja Polku organises scenic hikes that combine light exercise with stunning views. Their tours take you to local highlights such as Keisarinharju ridge, the quiet trails of Heramaanjärvi, and the vast wilderness of Laipanmaa – one of Southern Finland’s largest continuous forest areas. Stretching across Kangasala and Pälkäne, Laipanmaa offers over 30 kilometres of marked trails winding through diverse forest landscapes, peaceful ponds, lakes, swamps, and hilltop viewpoints. It’s an ideal destination to reconnect with nature, whether you’re looking for a short family-friendly walk or a full-day wilderness adventure.
Discover the Lakeland Villages state of mind in summer in Kangasala, Kuhmoinen, and Pälkäne – where life slows down, nature surrounds you, and authentic Finnish experiences are waiting to be explored.
