From Helsinki: Berry Picking Day Trip in a National Park

Discover the Finnish Forests with a Berry Picking Day Trip from Helsinki

This 7-hour guided tour offers an authentic taste of Finland’s wilderness, departing from Helsinki for an exploration of Liesjärvi National Park in Uusimaa. For $176 per person, participants enjoy roundtrip transportation, a professional wilderness guide, and a traditional Finnish-style lunch cooked over a campfire. This experience is ideal for those wanting to combine nature, culture, and delicious natural foods in a relaxed setting, although it’s best suited for ages 7 and up and those comfortable with light walking.

The tour emphasizes wild berry foraging, showcasing Finland’s edible flora like blueberries, lingonberries, and wild strawberries. A highlight is the chance to pick and take home some berries, while learning about their health benefits. With a small group size limited to 8 participants, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the tranquility of the forest and the expertise of a knowledgeable guide.

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Key Points

• 7-hour trip from Helsinki including transport, guide, lunch, and activities
• Wild berry foraging in Liesjärvi National Park with instructions on edible foods
• Scenic walk through mossy Finnish forests with lake views
• Finnish-style lunch cooked over a campfire, including berries, dessert, and berry juice
• Take-home berries and snacks from your foraging efforts
• Small group experience with a maximum of 8 participants, led by a professional wilderness guide

Starting Point in Helsinki: Mannerheiminaukio

The tour begins at Mannerheiminaukio, in front of the Kiasma museum. The guide arrives 10 minutes early with a van labeled “Taiga Times” to ensure a smooth start. This central Helsinki meeting point offers easy access for most travelers.

Exploring Liesjärvi National Park: Forests and Lakeside Views

Once in the park, the guide leads a guided walk lasting about 4.33 hours through lush moss-covered forests, where wild berries thrive. The route is designed to be relaxed and easygoing, making it suitable for all fitness levels, but comfortable shoes are recommended. The landscapes include serene lakes, providing perfect photo opportunities and peaceful scenery.

Foraging for Wild Berries: Blueberries, Lingonberries, and Wild Strawberries

As part of the experience, participants learn about Finnish superfoods, including blueberries, lingonberries, and wild strawberries. The guide explains how to identify these edible berries and shares insights into the flora and fauna of the area. Expect to fill your basket with sweet, nutrient-rich berries that are sweeter than store-bought options.

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Lakeside Campfire and Finnish-Style Lunch

At a cozy lakeside spot, the guide prepares a traditional Finnish lunch over an open fire. The meal includes local ingredients, a dessert, and berry juice. During the meal, there is ample time to take photos, chat, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Taiga forest. If dietary restrictions are needed, travelers are encouraged to inform at booking.

Continuing the Forest Adventure Post-Lunch

After eating, the group resumes exploring the park’s natural beauty, with the focus on enjoying the scenery and berry picking. The walk continues for about an hour and a half, allowing plenty of time to appreciate the landscape and possibly find additional berries.

Returning to Helsinki: Convenience and Punctuality

The tour concludes with a return trip back to Mannerheiminaukio around 4 P.M.. The journey back is direct, and the tour provider notes that arrival times may vary slightly on some days, but overall, the schedule is reliable. Since the trip operates rain or shine, participants should be prepared for weather with comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

Logistics and Practical Tips for Participants

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, water, and a reusable water bottle. The tour provides some raingear if needed, but no hotel pickup or drop-off is included. The activity is not suitable for children under 7, or for individuals with mobility or wheelchair impairments, due to the nature of the walking involved.

Sustainability and Responsible Travel

This tour proudly holds the Sustainable Travel Finland label and Green Activities certificate, emphasizing eco-friendly practices. Participants are encouraged to avoid littering and respect the environment throughout the experience.

How This Tour Differs from Similar Experiences

Compared to other nature excursions around Helsinki, this tour’s focus on wild berry foraging combined with an authentic lakeside Finnish lunch** makes it stand out. The small group size ensures personalized guidance and a relaxed pace, perfect for those wanting an intimate connection with nature.

The Sum Up: A Unique Finnish Wilderness Experience

The Berry Picking Day Trip in a National Park offers a calm, educational, and delicious excursion into Finland’s forests. The combination of foraging, scenic walking, and authentic cuisine makes it a well-rounded day for nature lovers and curious travelers alike. The expert guidance ensures you learn about local edible plants while enjoying the serenity of the wilderness.

While the tour does not include hotel pickup and is not suited for very young children or those with mobility challenges, its small group size and sustainable ethos make for a comfortable and responsible adventure. If you seek a peaceful outdoor experience that highlights Finland’s natural bounty, this trip promises an engaging and tasty day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from Mannerheiminaukio in Helsinki is included.

How long does the walk in the national park last?
The guided walk lasts approximately 4.33 hours, with a relaxed and easygoing pace.

What should I bring on the trip?
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, water, weather-appropriate clothing, and a reusable water bottle.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 7 years or for individuals with mobility or wheelchair impairments.

What is included in the lunch?
A Finnish-style lunch cooked over a campfire, along with dessert and berry juice. Dietary needs can be accommodated if notified in advance.

Can I take home berries I pick?
Yes, extra berries can be taken home, making this experience both fun and rewarding for berry enthusiasts.

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