VIA WILDERNESS - CALL OF THE WILD

Via Wilderness stretches through rugged hilly ground and forest scenery all the way to the Arctic Circle. The area is known for its peaceful nature, impressive landscape and versatile leisure activities. Some of Finland’s most popular tourist, recreation and nature centers such as Vuokatti, Ruka and Hossa are situated here. Via Wilderness is also a fisherman’s paradise with fast-flowing rapids and numerous lakes. You can also admire the untouched nature in many national parks and nature reserves such as the Oulanka National Park and the Riisitunturi National Park.

Hyrynsalmi marks the beginning of the reindeer husbandry area. Here, you must look out for reindeer crossing the roads. This is also the only area in the EU in which you can encounter the forest reindeer in the wild. The diverse game stock and food culture is represented by bear, moose, salmon and trout, just to mention a few.

The National Road Finland borders the Russian frontier. This region has many battle grounds and relics from the Finnish Winter War (1939-40). The museum Raatteen Portti (Gateway to Raate) tells its own story of the war.

Via Wilderness consists of many areas which have played an important role in the Finnish culture and history since the Stone Age. Here you can almost feel the presence of the mythology of the Finnish National Epic Kalevala. The Kalevala tradition is presented in the Kuhmo Kalevala Village and in Juminkeko. You can also familiarize yourself with the tar tradition.

International cultural and music events are the Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival, the Kainuu Jazz, the Kajaani Poetry Week as well as the original Swamp Soccer World Championships. Via Wilderness is also known for its modern industry and, in particular, for its know-how and development of the electronics and paper industry.

Via Wilderness - Partner municipalities