Trail of the unexpected, a spirit lifting landscape, stretches of trees with the sweet smell of the forest floor, damp tree bark and a palpable feeling of calm. Nothing can truly prepare you for the wonder of Finland. It's impossible not to fall in love with this wonderful country. Finland nourishes the senses, clears the mind and soothes the soul.
Sometimes, it can be a single word that makes you want to go somewhere, the way a place sounds when it rolls off your tongue. The destination that resonated with me and gave me the immediate urge to travel was Finland, unexpectedly.
Two years ago, my dear Finnish friend introduced me to her country and hometown. It was a breathtaking adventure and the experience of a lifetime. Traveling through the hidden charms of Finland, I felt instantly at home.
Whilst wandering, discovering and celebrating my mid-summer at the family’s Finnish summer house I was at peace. A one-hour drive from the capital Helsinki, our location was on the water’s edge, far from the city. We spent a couple of days driving to new places and towns, the landscape getting wilder the further we progressed. Mostly we were surrounded by rustically simple, but charming cottages and untouched nature. I reset my button, sat back and enjoyed the fruits of a summer well spent.
Joining the locals for lunch at Scola, an old school remodelled as a restaurant. The only way to get there was by car or boat. I'm instantly hooked by the Scandinavian lifestyle. Strolling around and exploring food, people and the villages. I have a lifelong passion for authentic places and restaurants. I was so pleased to be able to explore and share these kinds of places with my Finnish friend. Later that day, we drove up to the Four Seasons, the best fish shop in town. People wait in line for hours, especially during Christmas time, to buy fish and the special sauces made from scratch.
Shopping is, of course, one of my favorite things to do. Finding local and traditional skincare products, discovering interior designs at Art Story and trying on Scandinavian clothing brands from Newport makes me happy.. I visited Rosalinda, a beautiful interior and lifestyle shop in a little village called Inkoo. I highly recommend this store to everyone. With most top Danish, Swedish and Finnish brands, you can find everything from gifts to cosmetics, Rosalinda has it all.
In the late afternoons, we spent the time taking care of ourselves. I call it: a natural retreat in outdoor living. Swimming in the chilly water, running towards the sauna, taking a shower and moisturising our bodies with the essential oils of the Swedish brands: Klinta Massageljus and Hudvard Body Butter Lavender & Rosemary. A typical spa feeling for mind and body.
We spent our evenings pouring a good glass of red wine, cooking and relaxing. And if that wasn’t enough, my friend Johanna started crochet as her new favorite hobby. I enjoyed watching her enjoying her craft, while I watched Notting Hill.
You know you have met a friend for life when you can sit together in silence, domyour own thing and just relax. My love for Finland, Scandinavia and the special people and traditions continues to grow.