FAM-Trip: Tour operators exploring Kalajoki, Finland

NordicMarketing on the road in Kalajoki, Finland

In September, we embarked on a FAM trip to Kajajoki, situated in northern Finland. During this expedition, we delved into the Arctic coast along the Baltic Sea with enthusiastic tour operators from Germany and the Netherlands.

Many paths lead to Kalajoki 🇫🇮

Kalajoki, situated approximately 350 km south of the Arctic Circle, rests directly on the Arctic coast of the Gulf of Bothnia. Accessible via Kokkola-Pietarsaari Airport (roughly 90 km away) and Oulu Airport (approximately 130 km away), it offers diverse travel options. During our exploration, the organizers opted for a flight to Kokkola for the outbound journey and chose Oulu for the return flight.

My own experience, having previously journeyed to Sweden, involved a Baltic Sea boat trip to Vaasa, followed by a long-distance bus to Kokkola. These varied travel routes alone offer a plethora of possibilities, granting access to the destination by air, land, or sea. Additionally, Lufthansa's new direct flight from Munich to Oulu enhances accessibility. Combining travel via the Baltic Sea with a visit to Sweden also presents a promising option for travelers.

Where coastal dreams meet Nordic forest idyll 🌲

Kalajoki, beyond its easy accessibility, boasts authentic charm and a rich array of nature encounters. Embracing vast seas and expansive beaches, it reveals scenic marvels like the Siiponjoki river valley nestled amidst captivating pine forests. A web of cycling and hiking trails beckons exploration, while the Hiekkasärkät sand dunes offer sturdy wooden paths, accommodating pedestrians, cyclists, strollers, and wheelchairs alike.

During the visit, the group availed themselves of e-fatbikes, proving incredibly practical for seamless transportation between program points.

Highlight: Boat trip to Maakalla Island 🛥️

The weather favored our plans, setting the stage for a standout experience on the morning of the second day: a trip to the historic fishing island of Maakalla. Skilled skipper Matti steered us to the island aboard his motorboat (approximately 30 minutes journey), doubling as our knowledgeable guide. An observation tower offered panoramic views, revealing the island's entirety, while a quaint fishing museum unveiled the region's extensive fishing heritage. To savor the local delicacy, the organizers relished smoked fish from a nearby fisherman, enjoying it hands-on.

Following the half-day excursion, the organizers soared above the expansive sandy beaches within the local adventure park, embarking on a thrilling zipline adventure suspended at heights surpassing 30 meters.

A brief stop at Kalajoki's fresh maritime gathering spot

Next, the group explored the undergoing renovation of the harbor area. The upcoming marina space aims to provide a novel experience for boaters, sailors, and all visitors alike. Serving as Kalajoki's maritime hub, it beckons nature enthusiasts and admirers of marine life, promising immersive experiences in maritime cultural history, tales, and communities.

Welcoming guests amidst the Finnish autumn woods 🍂

During the second-to-last day of the informational trip, the group embarked on their cherished e-fat bikes, guided by local experts, venturing towards the serene forests encircling the Siiponjoki river valley. Nestled at a quintessential Finnish rest spot, the bikes found their place as participants tried their hand at kindling a fire. Helena and Sanna, our local guides, treated us to delightful snacks like the traditional Karelian pie 'Karjalanpiirakka' and 'Leipäjuusto,' the famous Finnish squeaky cheese.

Amidst the crackling flames, conversations revolved around the potential for guided forest hikes, emphasizing the enriching experience of narratives shared by local guides. A brief forest trek unveiled the enchanting beauty of the Finnish autumn - sprawling carpets of lush moss, lichen-draped landscapes, abundant lingonberry bushes, and an array of glistening mushrooms that seemed plucked from a fairytale.

A savory lunch in a rustic ambiance set the stage for a tour of the local holiday village, showcasing diverse accommodation options and a quaint shop featuring regional produce. The journey continued with a unique forest encounter: horseback riding. Tailored for beginners, the experience centered on acquainting organizers with handling these majestic animals, emphasizing human-animal communication. Understanding the distinct personalities of the horses allowed each participant to select an animal that resonated with them.

Whether as a destination brimming with diverse on-site activities or a brief 1-2 night stopover within a Finnish round trip or paired with a multi-country itinerary, the region holds immense promise for crafting a myriad of travel experiences. This potential extends to both independent travelers and guided groups. What stood out significantly during the FAM trip was the genuine local authenticity and the warmth exuded by the Finns, often renowned for their reserved nature, leaving a lasting impression on the organizers.

FAM-Trips with NordicMarketing

The informational tours arranged by NordicMarketing are collaborative efforts involving partners and clients from Finland, Sweden, or Norway. These tours are exclusively tailored for handpicked tour operators from Germany, Switzerland, Austria, the Netherlands, or Belgium who currently include or aspire to include the Nordic countries in their product offerings.