exploring countryside treasures in southwest finland

Here comes the Finland 101 guide – a country between Russia and Sweden. Pretty big in size for Europe, but just 5 million people, most of which live in Southern part of the country. If you love sunlight summer is the time to go so you can experience the night-less night where sun never goes down.

We are not going to be touring the country this time, but decided to get to know some coastal and countryside treasures around Turku and Helsinki. Here’s our first trip to seaside cottage paradise of many islands called Kustavi. There is an artist village, little boutiques, animals for kids to feed and country food (fish since it’s the coastal area) and fresh buns to enjoy. And of course coffee, since Finns drink it more than anyone other nation in the world…

One cool thing to know about Finland is that (opposite to e.g. US) that you have a so-called every man’s right – meaning that you can walk in forests, pick blueberries, mushrooms, even make a fire (if it’s not a dry season) no matter whether it’s private or government land – as long as you don’t wander into owner’s garden…so there is tons to see everywhere!

Here you can find a real blacksmith making simple jewelry and everyday tools

The works of the blacksmith

Looks like those romantic movies from the 50s…

The sweet smell of summer flowers one can picks from the meadows

Summer restaurant. Traditional countryside buildings were all red, because the paint was created from red soil…

Country cafe and an ice cream place. Furniture made by the blacksmith of course