LAHTI
Lahti
The wondrous destination of Lahti offers something increasingly valuable in today’s modern world – space to breathe. Here, world-class outdoor experiences exist alongside vibrant cultural life, excellent restaurants, and genuine Finnish happiness WRITER: ED BUDDS PROJECT MANAGER: JOSEPH PERFITT
FI NLAND IS THE ‘Land of a Thousand Lakes’, with the largest lake district in Europe. Within this nation of natural splendour, the city of Lahti and capital of the Päijät-Häme region is a blue and green labyrinth of forests, lakes, and islands, all intertwined and forming ridges and passageways to secret lagoons and hideaways. As the Ice Age neared its end, a massive three-kilometre (km)-thick glacier started to melt, and surging water transported vast amounts of sand and gravel towards its edge. As it advanced and retreated, the glacier moulded this sand into a colossal, 500-km-long ridge formation that Lahti is situated on today, known locally as Salpausselkä. In 2022, Salpausselkä earned the prestigious status of becoming a UNESCO Global Geopark – precisely why the Lahti region is an exceptional outdoor and nature destination. As such, unlike any other place on the planet, the true essence of Lahti is balance. Visitors can spend the morning hiking through pristine forests, enjoy a tranquil lunch by one of the many lakes, visit an internationally recognised art museum, experience a traditional Finnish sauna, and end the day with excellent local food and live music – all within easy reach. 2 | Outlook Travel Issue 26
Because everything is so close together, when visiting Lahti, it’s easy to experience a great deal without rushing. Perhaps the secret to its charm is that Finland has remained first place in the World Happiness Report, published annually by the University of Oxford, for nine consecutive years. When a country possesses a long-standing reputation for happiness, people tend to ask what the recipe is. There is no single answer, of course, however, Finland has fostered what locals call the ‘infrastructure of happiness’. The country has maintained the culture and social institutions that form the basis and framework for individuals and communities to build their happiness. Moreover, Lahti is an ideal, year-round destination for sports lovers. Whether you’re a fan of trail running, cycling, cross-country skiing, or open water swimming, the surrounding natural landscapes offer endless possibilities for outdoor activities. What’s more, Lahti Sports Centre, along with Olympic training facilities in Vierumäki and Pajulahti, offer over 400 different sports to participate in. After breaking a sweat, visitors can discover the local cafés, restaurants, and events that give the region its distinctive atmosphere.
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PHOTO: LAHTI NIEMEN SATAMA
Industry Insights
Visit Lahti Visit Lahti is responsible for the development of the location’s business services, tourism promotion, regional marketing, and international attraction work. We hear more about the organisation’s exceptional work from Raija Forsman, CEO. Outlook Travel (OT): Firstly, can you talk me through the origins of the tourism authority and its initial vision? Raija Forsman, CEO (RF): Visit Lahti was established to bring together the strengths of the Lahti region in Lakeland Finland under one destination brand and to make it easier for visitors to discover everything it has to offer. 4 | Outlook Travel Issue 26
RAIJA FORSMAN, CEO
From the very beginning, our vision has been to showcase Lahti and Lakeland Finland as the perfect destination for nature lovers and travellers who enjoy being active and spending time outdoors. Our role has evolved from traditional destination marketing into building partnerships across municipalities, tourism businesses, and local communities. Today, our mission remains the same – to inspire people to visit, stay longer, and experience authentic
PHOTO: VISITLAHTI HARANSILMA LAHTI LAHDEN URHEILUKESKUS 2020
PHOTO: VISITLAHTI HIIHTO
Finnish life in a way that benefits both visitors and local communities. OT: What are some of your organisation’s current priorities and goals? RF: Our primary goal is to increase both domestic and international tourism whilst ensuring growth remains sustainable. We want to strengthen Lahti’s position as one of Finland’s leading year-round destinations, particularly for active travellers, nature lovers, cultural
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PHOTO: LAHTI NASTOLA KAIVOLAN PERINNETILA
PHOTO: LANUPUISTO TALVI
“Our marketing focuses on experiences rather than sightseeing alone in the way that we tell stories about what Lahti makes people feel – movement, re c ove r y, i n s p i r a t i o n , a n d g e n u i n e connection with nature” – Raija Forsman, CEO, Visit Lahti
PHOTO: LAHTI HYPPYRIMÄET TALVI
explorers, and businesses. Another important priority is extending visitor stays by encouraging travellers to explore the wider Lakeland region. At the same time, we continue developing digital marketing and storytelling that connects emotionally with travellers rather than simply promoting attractions. OT: How are you currently marketing Lahti as a destination? What, for you, represents the essence of the location?
RF: Our marketing focuses on experiences rather than sightseeing alone in the way that we tell stories about what Lahti makes people feel – movement, recovery, inspiration, and a genuine connection with nature. We use digital channels, international partnerships, content creators, and destination storytelling to showcase experiences that visitors can easily imagine themselves enjoying – from cycling through UNESCO Global Geopark landscapes to relaxing in a lakeside sauna or discovering contemporary Nordic culture. OT: Are there any interesting projects you wish to highlight? RF: One of our ongoing priorities is continuously developing the Lahti region as a year-round destination where sustainability, accessibility, and authentic local experiences go hand
in hand. As such, Lahti has been awarded the proud label a Sustainable Travel Finland (STF) destination by Visit Finland. We are strengthening our international visibility whilst also developing new visitor experiences around nature, cycling, outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and lake tourism. Meanwhile, we are also investing in new digital storytelling that highlights local people, unique places, and authentic Finnish life rather than traditional destination marketing. Elsewhere, we are partnering with international major events and are a proud host city for Nordic skiing and gravel cycling events, as well as many music festivals. Another exciting development is the growing collaboration between tourism operators and the Finnish Outlook Travel Issue 26 | 5
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PHOTO: LAHTI PASSENGER HARBOUR
boating industry which combines activities across cities, villages, lakes, forests, and national parks, encompassing Finnish lifestyle by the lake. OT: How important is sustainability for your organisation? RF: Sustainability is not a separate project for us – it is the foundation of everything we do. Lahti has built an international reputation as a pioneer in sustainable urban development as a former European Green Capital, and our tourism strategy follows the same principles. We encourage responsible travel, support local businesses, promote year-round tourism, and help visitors experience nature in ways that preserve it for future generations. We believe the best visitor experiences are also those that create long-term value for local communities, businesses, and the environment. Sustainability is therefore both an ethical responsibility and one of our strongest competitive advantages.
OT: Similarly, what are some of the most underrated or lessercelebrated landmarks or attractions that you would like to highlight? RF: One of the hidden gems of our region is simply the opportunity to experience Finnish silence. Whether it is a quiet lakeside pier at sunrise, a forest trail in the Salpausselkä ridges, or a peaceful island in Lake Päijänne National Park, these moments often become the most memorable part of a visitor’s journey. Many travellers arrive expecting beautiful scenery but leave talking about something less tangible – the
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calm, clean air, and feeling of genuine recovery that they experienced here. For many, the local community of cyclists, foodies, live music fans, or families also plays an important role. OT: What current trends are transforming the tourism industry in Lahti and how are you utilising and responding to them? RF: Travellers today are increasingly seeking meaningful experiences rather than simply checking famous landmarks off a list. They value authenticity, well-being, sustainability, and opportunities to connect with
“ To d a y , o u r m i s s i o n r e m a i n s t h e s a m e : to i n s p i re p e o p l e to v i s i t , s t ay l o n g e r, and experience authentic Finnish life in a way that benefits both visitors and local communities”
PHOTO: LAHTI DAY
– Raija Forsman, CEO, Visit Lahti
local culture. We are responding by focusing on experience-led storytelling and promoting activities that allow visitors to participate rather than simply observe. Outdoor recreation, wellness, cycling, nature-based experiences, local food, and culture all reflect these changing expectations. Digital discovery has also become increasingly important. Travellers often choose destinations based on inspiring content shared through social media and content creators, so we invest heavily in authentic storytelling that reflects real experiences rather than polished advertising.
sporting heritage, vibrant culture, sustainability, and a showcase of the authentic Finnish lifestyle. Equally important is the strong collaboration across the region. Tourism is a team effort, and our success comes from municipalities, businesses, cultural organisations, and local residents working together to create memorable experiences. Ultimately, the greatest achievement is hearing visitors say they discovered something unexpected – that they arrived for the scenery but left feeling genuinely refreshed, inspired, and eager to return. That is exactly the kind of destination we aspire to be, all year around.
OT: Finally, what are you most proud of regarding the tourist board’s body of work? RF: I am most proud of how we have built a destination that stays true to itself. Rather than trying to become something we are not, we have embraced what makes Lahti unique: clean nature, world-class
PHOTO: SATOKAUSIKALENTERI VISITLAHTI HEINOLA
PHOTO: AINOA WINERY VISITLAHTI
PHOTO: PURJEVENEITÄ LAHDEN VESIJÄRVELLÄ
+358 207 281 760 | sales@visitlahti.fi
www.visitlahti.fi
PHOTO: SUPPAILIJAT PIANO PAVILJONGIN EDUSTALLA VESIJÄRVI LAHTI
PHOTO: KAHVIHETKI OSKARIN PIHASSA LAHTI
Experience the Nordic dream
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remium Resorts offers international travellers a rare combination of Scandinavian comfort, lakeside nature, and active well-being in one of Finland’s most attractive resort destinations: Vierumaki. More than just accommodation, it provides a seamless way to experience the Finnish lifestyle at a high standard, whether the visitor is looking for a peaceful holiday, an active escape, a remote-work base, or a memorable place to gather with family, friends, or colleagues. At the heart of the experience are high-quality villas designed
to make every stay effortless and restorative. Guests arrive directly into a private setting where everything is prepared for comfort: spacious terraces, a sauna, a hot tub, lake access, and beautifully equipped interiors. The villas combine the warmth of natural log construction with modern amenities such as premium kitchens, smart entertainment systems, fast Wi-Fi, and carefully selected furnishings. The result is a stay that feels both authentically Finnish and internationally premium - elegant enough
for discerning travellers, yet relaxed and welcoming enough to feel like a true retreat. One of Premium Resorts’ strongest advantages is its setting. Vierumaki is known for its unique mix of clean nature, world-class sports, and yearround leisure opportunities. Guests can step outside and immediately access hiking and cycling trails, whilst winter brings cross-country skiing and snowshoeing through snowy forest landscapes. The lake environment adds another layer of experience, with opportunities for
swimming, rowing, fishing, and paddleboarding right from the Villa 4Season. This direct connection to nature is a major part of the appeal for international visitors seeking something more meaningful than a standard hotel stay. At the same time, Vierumaki is far from remote in the inconvenient sense. It is easily reachable from the Helsinki metropolitan area and airport. That accessibility makes Premium Resorts especially attractive for weekend breaks, longer summer stays, hybrid work holidays, and multigenerational travel. Guests can enjoy the feeling of privacy and escape without sacrificing convenience. The wider Vierumaki area strengthens the offer even further. It is one of Finland’s best-known sport and wellness destinations, with an impressive range of facilities that appeal to
both casual visitors and serious enthusiasts. Golfers can enjoy two 18-hole courses and a Par 3 practice course. Wellnessfocused travellers can benefit from spa services, fitness and training environments, and the area’s broad recreational infrastructure. Events, activities, and steady visitor demand create an energetic atmosphere throughout the year, whilst still allowing each
villa to remain a place of calm and personal space. Premium Resorts also stands out through its service model. For international travellers, convenience matters as much as location. The company emphasises personal hospitality and practical support, helping guests with arrangements, local experiences, and even eventrelated needs such as catering.
This makes the villas suitable not only for leisure stays, but also for small corporate retreats, meetings, celebrations, and private gatherings. Instead of a generic accommodation product, Premium Resorts delivers a hosted experience with local expertise behind it. That local expertise is important. Premium Resorts has over a decade of operating experience and strong roots in Vierumaki. This long-term presence gives credibility to the brand and ensures that guests benefit from established local partnerships, reliable maintenance, and smooth service delivery. For international travellers unfamiliar with the area, that
trust and operational maturity can make a major difference. They are not simply booking a place to sleep - they are choosing a professionally managed stay in a destination with proven appeal. Another compelling part of the story is well-being. The villas are designed around the idea that quality accommodation should actively support rest and recovery. The log-built structures promote fresh indoor air and a natural moisture balance, whilst premium beds, quality linens, and peaceful surroundings contribute to excellent sleep. Combined with Finland’s famously clean air and quiet natural setting, this creates a powerful message for
travellers who value restoration, health, and mental reset as much as sightseeing. The experience is also culturally distinctive. A stay at Premium Resorts gives international guests access to something deeply Finnish: the rhythm of nature, forest, sauna, and seasonal living. Add local food, nearby cultural attractions, and the authenticity of the setting, and the result becomes more than a holiday - it becomes an immersion into a Nordic way of life. For many international travellers, that sense of place is exactly what makes a destination memorable. In summary, Premium Resorts can be positioned as a premium gateway to Finnish
nature, well-being, and active lifestyle. It offers the privacy of a villa, the comfort of high-end accommodation, the excitement of a leading resort area, and the reassurance of experienced local hosting. For international travellers seeking quality, authenticity, and ease, Premium Resorts in Vierumaki is not just a place to stay - it is a complete destination experience.
Premium Resorts is open for rental possibilities and also for investment opportunities.
myynti@premiumresorts.fi www.premiumresorts.fi
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In Focus
Finnish Lakeland
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The largest district of lakes in Europe, Finnish Lakeland is a blue labyrinth of lakes, islands, rivers, and canals, interspersed with forests and ridges.
FI NLA ND HAS AP P ROX IM AT E LY 188,000 lakes and most of them are situated in the heart of the nation. This otherworldly region is a natural gem and tremendous source of pride for the Finnish people, who cherish their relationship with nature as a core part of their identity and well-being. The countless lakes in Lahti offer breathtakingly beautiful landscapes and amazing recreational opportunities. Lake Päijänne National Park is a highlight, with its beautiful islands, clear waters, and peaceful landscapes that represent the very essence of this undeniable oasis of calm. The shores and ridges of Finland’s second-largest lake offer hiking trails and intriguing opportunities for luscious day trips.
The gem of the national park, Kelvenne Island, is especially suitable for kayakers and boaters. Meanwhile, when traversing the Pulkkilanharju Nature Trail or exploring Päijätsalo, you can marvel at the unmatched scenery without taking to the waters. For confident swimmers, remember to bring your swimwear and take a dip whenever possible. Elsewhere, the Kymenkäänne paddling route takes you from Lake Kymijärvi through a series of small lakes and streams to the Kymijoki River. The route continues through a chain of lakes to Lake Arrajärvi and on to the Kymijoki River, from which the waters flow into the Gulf of Finland. Lahti is also an easily accessible area for birdwatchers, offering a rich variety of birdlife across its lakes, forests, and wetlands.
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RECOMMENDS Eat: FOR S PA N I S H-I N S PI R E D C U I S I N E … Known for its delicious, sizeable steaks and tasty Mediterranean food, El Toro has served customers in the centre of Lahti since 1981. FOR QUA L I T Y LO CA L PR ODUC E … Teerenpeli Brewery & Distillery tells the story of passionate, award-winning local beers, ciders, whiskies, and gins, all of which are created with respect for tradition, but with a bold innovation in flavours.
Do: FOR A L I V E LY LO CA L AT MO S PH E R E … A mix of cosy restaurants and cafés, small boutiques, design, and modern architecture are offered by Lahti Harbour.
Sleep: FOR A S T Y L I S H E S CA PE … Premium Resorts was founded to connect Finnish nature, domestic craftsmanship, and guests who demand the best in accommodation. Offering luxury holiday living in carefully selected destinations, Premium Resorts believes the pure experiences of natural Finnish beauty should be widely celebrated. The suave selection of villas on offer are all built 14 | Outlook Travel Issue 26
PHOTO: LAHDEN SATAMA IRONMAN-TAPAHTUMAN AIKAAN
from premium materials with deep respect for the environment. Let Premium Resorts help make your dream a reality – whether it’s an unforgettable weekend getaway, corporate event, or your very own luxury villa with exclusive spaces ready for extraordinary events. On hand to sort every intricate detail after your booking, the immaculate villas enjoy seamless service and fast support make every stay perfect. With a range of prime locations in its portfolio, Premium Resorts encompasses the entire spectrum of luxury accommodation for every variety of traveller. In the realm of business travel, Premium Resorts believes that conference rooms are a thing of the past. Take advantage of luxury villas in Vierumäki which offer company privacy, ultimate comfort, and nature – all in one package, just over an hour from Helsinki. The entire villa is exclusively yours – no other guests or interruptions, allowing confidential discussions to stay confidential. Additionally, every villa features a private sauna and outdoor hot tub. The best team days always end in the sauna – Finnish business culture at its finest. FOR A C H A R M I NG H I DE AWAY… EnjoyNature Resort FOR L A K E S I DE R E L A X AT ION… Radalla Resort
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Escape to Nature. Reconnect with Yourself. In the heart of silent nature, just 15 minutes from Lahti, EnjoyNature Resort is more than a hotel - it’s a cosy home that offers comfort and relaxation and, of course, would not be complete without delicious, freshly homemade food! Slow down and regenerate with guided forest bathing, relax in our traditional saunas and cosy shelter with several fireplaces, enjoy plenty of indoor and outdoor games, and explore endless bike trails starting right from the resort, as well as hiking and fishing. Visit our website to find out more, at: enjoynature.fi
Where Historic Charm Meets Finnish Lakeland Escape to Radalla Resort, a family-owned lakeside destination in the Lahti Region, where a beautifully restored 170-year-old manor, peaceful nature and genuine Finnish hospitality come together. Located on the shores of Lake Urajärvi in Iitti, under two hours from Helsinki and only 30 minutes from Lahti, Radalla Resort invites you to slow down and experience the best of Finnish Lakeland. Stay by the lake, savour seasonal cuisine at Restaurant Balladi, unwind in traditional lakeside saunas and discover authentic local experiences at your own pace. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, outdoor adventures or simply a moment to relax, you’ll find warm, personal service and unforgettable surroundings. At Radalla Resort, every moment is framed by the beauty of the lake.
+358 44 066 7053 @radallaresort
sales@radallaresort.fi RadallaResort
www.radallaresort.fi
RadallaResort
Uimarintie 1 47400itti, Finland
radalla.resort
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Landmark Attractions Lahti Museum of Visual Arts Xxxxxxxx Malva Surama is an Amerindian village (mainly inhabited by Macushi The internationally acclaimed Lahti Museum of Visual people) and the site for the first Arts Malva is located in Malski, an old brewery building community ecotourism initiative dating back to 1912. The museum is full of Lahti art, design, in Guyana. The local community posters, and culture in Lahti, less than a 50-minute trip from manages and maintains Surama Helsinki via a direct fast train operated by Finland’s national Eco-Lodge, which offers tourists a railway company, VR Group. chance to stay in traditional huts, try In addition to fascinating exhibitions, you can find a great local food and explore nearby nature gift shop and several cosy restaurants under the same roof, trails. offering a unique experience for culture lovers, families with children, and first-time museumgoers alike. PHOTO: MALVA AHTO
Salpausselkä UNESCO Global Geopark The Salpausselkä UNESCO Global Geopark is undoubtedly one of Lahti’s greatest natural treasures. It tells the story of the Ice Age whilst offering exceptional opportunities for hiking, gravel cycling, and outdoor recreation. Salpausselkä Geopark promotes sustainable tourism, enhancing the well-being of nature, culture, and local communities. The park has also been awarded the STF label in recognition of its long-term commitment to sustainable tourism development.
Sibelius Hall One of the world’s finest wooden concert halls and the flagship of Finnish wood architecture, Sibelius Hall is located in Lahti Harbour. This magnificent building is built from the finest Finnish wood, and the subtle details of the house respect the surrounding nature. The acoustics of the concert hall are worldclass, whilst the presence of wood brings warmth and peace to the breathtaking space. Sibelius Hall is like a forest that has been transformed into an art exhibition.
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Getting There and Around LAHTI I S EASY to reach by air and, once you touch down, is located less than an hour from Helsinki Airport by train or car. For those arriving by boat, the city is equally easy to access as it’s just an hour’s drive from the harbours. After landing at Helsinki airport, you can easily walk from the arrivals hall to the airport’s railway station. The fastest connections from Helsinki Airport to Lahti take less than an hour with a change at Tikkurila station. Directly connected to Lahti Railway Station, the Lahti Travel Centre is the
PHOTO: SOUTUVENELLÄ JÄRVELLÄ IITTI
transport hub of the region bringing local and long-haul traffic and different modes of transport together seamlessly. Lahti also has excellent bus connections from the Helsinki metropolitan area as well as elsewhere in Finland. Elsewhere, shipping company Finnlines offers ferry trips from Germany to Helsinki and from Sweden to Helsinki, Turku, and Naantali, so pack your car and drive onboard. Meanwhile, ports are conveniently located – the
port of Helsinki is approximately an hour’s drive from Lahti and Turku, whilst Naantali is about three hours away. Finland is a large and sparsely populated country so it’s easy and comfortable to drive here. The country has right-handed traffic and, if you’re renting a car, consider choosing an electric vehicle – there is a comprehensive network of charging stations listed online at latauskartta.fi – a free, crowdsourced digital map and directory.
+358 207 281 760 | sales@visitlahti.fi
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