Journey Through Pielinen Karelia – History, Culture and Cozy Stays!
Embark on an unforgettable museum tour that combines the rich cultural heritage of North Karelia with warm Karelian hospitality. On this two-day adventure, you’ll explore the unique museums of Nurmes and Lieksa and enjoy an overnight stay in a charming guesthouse or the famous Bomba Karelian Village. This tour is more than just history – it’s an experience filled with inspiration, and unforgettable moments! Discover the rich traditions of Karelia!
Self drive tour: Route / Nurmes -Valtimo-Lieksa-Vuonisjärvi
This trip is ideal for:
- History and culture enthusiasts
- Nature and tranquility seekers
- Couples and groups of friends
- Families seeking an engaging holiday
- Art and architecture lovers
- Those seeking something authentic and different
Valid: July 2025 Wednesday - Sunday
For groups of min 10 person also at other times on request.
Program
Day 1: Welcome to Nurmes
Arrive to Guesthouse or Karelia Village
Dinner
Sauna
Day 2: Nurmes – Murtovaara and Ikola Open-Air Museum
Start your journey at Murtovaara, Finland’s best-preserved smoke cabin complex, and step into the everyday life of 19th-century Karelian farmily.
The Murtovaara farmyard offers a glimpse into a time when a forest ranger's family lived a day's drive from the nearest town. Visitors to Finland's only museum of danger dwellings will be charmed by the peaceful atmosphere of the traditional landscape that opens up after a half-kilometre walk, and by the over 100-year-old buildings. Coffee/juice and sweet.
Next, visit the Ikola Open-Air Museum at Nurmes, where you’ll immerse yourself in the traditions and stories of rural life. Learn how past generations lived, worked. The old barn building in Ikola presents the history of the iron foundry in Kuokkastenkoski, the development of firefighting and the history of the dairy and agricultural activities in Nurmes, with objects and photographs. Also on display are the delightful animal-themed concrete sculptures by artist Alma Pääkkönen.
At the Ikola Museum, visitors are delighted by the goats and sheep that take care of the landscape.
In the evening, unwind in a cozy guesthouse or at the iconic Bomba Karelian Village, where the vibrant Karelian culture comes alive. Enjoy a delicious dinner made from local ingredients and let the peaceful surroundings rejuvenate your spirit.
Day 3: Lieksa – Pielinen Museum and Paateri
On the second day, head to the Pielinen Museum, Finland’s second-largest open-air museum. Wander through historical buildings and engaging exhibits that bring the region’s history to life. Finish your tour with a visit to Paateri, the extraordinary studio and wooden church of sculptor Eva Ryynänen, where art and nature blend seamlessly.
This tour is more than just history – it’s an experience filled with warmth, inspiration, and unforgettable moments! Discover the rich traditions of Karelia and enjoy hospitality that will leave a lasting impression.
Price: From 250€ | 120€/ Children 4-12 y.
Inlc. Accommodation douple room or family room.
- 2 x breakfast
- 2 x dinner
- Entrance fee to museums and museum public guided tour
- Murtovaara museum including also coffee and sweet.
How to get here: Getting-here
Joensuu > Nurmes 135 km.
