Berry Picking in a National Park

If you’re looking to combine a love of nature, tasty local foods, and a touch of Finnish adventure, this Berry Picking in a National Park tour from Helsinki offers just that. While I haven’t personally tramped through Liesjärvi’s forests, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary showcase a truly authentic and enriching experience. It’s a small-group trip that promises both education and relaxation—a perfect way to explore Finland beyond the city streets.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to forage for wild berries like blueberries and lingonberries directly from the forest. Second, the knowledgeable guides who not only point out edible plants but also share insights about the surrounding flora and fauna. Third, the delicious Finnish-style lunch, cooked over a lakeside campfire, which adds a rustic and communal touch. A possible downside? The tour relies on good weather—bad weather could hamper the berry-picking or outdoor lunch. Still, if you’re a fan of nature or seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, this tour will serve up plenty of memorable moments.

It’s particularly suited for nature lovers, foodies, and solo travelers eager to connect with Finland’s wilderness. If you’re after a relaxed, educational escape that gets you into the forest with expert guidance, this might become the highlight of your Helsinki visit.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 8 travelers) ensures a personal experience and better connection with the guide.
• Expert guidance helps you identify edible berries and learn about the forest ecology.
• Lakeside Finnish lunch cooked over an open fire offers authentic flavors and a scenic setting.
• Round-trip transport from Helsinki makes it easy and convenient, with a comfortable 1-hour 20-minute drive.
• Timing of 7 hours allows for a relaxed pace, including walking, picking, eating, and exploring.
• Cost around $179 per person, providing a full-day experience with included food and transport.

An In-Depth Look at the Berry Picking Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins at the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma in Helsinki, a well-known landmark in the city center. The tour’s meeting point at the front of Kiasma makes it easy to find, especially as it’s just 500 meters from Helsinki Central Railway Station. The small group size and round-trip transport in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi mean you start your day comfortably, with no worries about navigating or arranging transport yourself.

The drive to Liesjärvi National Park takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, giving you a taste of the Finnish countryside. The brief bathroom break is a thoughtful touch, especially for those traveling with kids or on a tight schedule. The scenic ride hints at the natural beauty awaiting you in the forest.

Exploring Liesjärvi National Park

Once at the park, the real fun begins. Your guide—who quite notably “wields a mean axe” according to a review—will lead the way through scenic forest trails. Expect a gentle walk that is manageable for most fitness levels, but still engaging enough to enjoy Finland’s lush greenery.

The highlight? Learning which berries are edible and how to distinguish them from inedible plants. As one reviewer shared, guides like Helena not only explain the plants but also share tips on safety and forest wildlife, adding a layer of knowledge that transforms a simple walk into an educational adventure.

While picking berries, you’ll see some of the favorite spots of the guide, ensuring a fruitful harvest—literally. Many guests mention that they picked more than enough berries, with one even joking they “wound up eating them all at lunch.” The variety includes blueberries, lingonberries, and strawberries—each with its own flavor and harvesting technique.

Lakeside Lunch and Forest Tranquility

After about two hours of foraging, your group will head to a peaceful lakeside spot where your guide begins to prepare a Finnish-style lunch over a campfire. Expect to see skillful fire-building, and enjoy the aroma of fresh, outdoor cooking. The lunch offers a genuine taste of Finnish cuisine, and many reviews praise the delicious, hearty meal.

While the food cooks, you’ll have plenty of time to snap photos, snack on berries, and soak in the serenity of the Taiga forest. One guest noted that the scenic views and calm environment made the experience feel like stepping into a postcard.

Continuing the Adventure

Post-lunchtime, the tour proceeds with more exploration of the park’s natural beauty. The walk back is relaxed, and you’ll return to Helsinki with a new appreciation for Finland’s wilderness and culinary traditions. The entire experience wraps up within about 7 hours, leaving you refreshed and with a handful of freshly picked berries.

Authenticity and Learning

Throughout the day, guides like Helena and Jeff make a significant difference. Guests consistently mention their expertise, friendly manner, and helpful tips, which elevate the experience beyond just berry picking. Jeff’s detailed knowledge about mushrooms and plants, as one reviewer highlighted, shows the tour’s educational value.

Practical Details and Value

The cost of $178.62 per person might seem steep at first glance, but it covers transport, guiding, laundry, and a traditional lunch— offering a comprehensive experience. The small group size (max 8) ensures personalized attention, meaning you’re not just a face in a crowd. Plus, the inclusion of WiFi and raincoats shows attention to comfort and practicality.

Booking about 23 days in advance indicates strong interest, a good sign of how enjoyable and well-organized this tour is. The flexible cancellation policy—free up to 24 hours before—adds peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor adventures, this tour will satisfy your craving for authentic nature experiences. It’s ideal for solo travelers seeking a peaceful escape, families wanting a safe, guided forest walk, or foodies interested in Finnish foraging traditions. The small group size creates an intimate atmosphere, perfect for those who prefer meaningful interactions over large tours.

It’s also a fantastic choice for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with hands-on learning—picking berries and understanding Finnish flora while enjoying a lakeside picnic.

The Sum Up

This Berry Picking in a National Park tour offers a rich, authentic taste of Finland’s wilderness and culinary traditions. The combination of guided foraging, scenic walks, and a lakeside Finnish-style lunch makes for a well-rounded, memorable day. It’s especially suitable for nature enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone eager to experience Finland beyond Helsinki’s urban charm.

While weather can influence the day’s pace, the personalized guidance and scenic setting promise a truly rewarding outing. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and thoughtful touches like WiFi and raincoats make this not just a tour, but a genuine Finnish adventure in the woods.

For those looking to connect with nature, learn new skills, and enjoy a delicious meal in stunning surroundings, this tour checks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transfer from Helsinki, in an air-conditioned vehicle with WiFi for a comfortable journey.

How long does the tour last?
Expect approximately 7 hours, including travel, walking, berry picking, lunch, and exploration.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for forest walking, and bring rain gear if the weather forecast calls for rain.

Are there restrictions on the number of travelers?
Yes, the tour limits to 8 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

What foods are included?
A Finnish-style lunch is provided, cooked over a lakeside campfire. Be sure to specify any dietary restrictions when booking.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour. Shorter notice cancellations are non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While no specific age restrictions are mentioned, the moderate walking and outdoor setting make it suitable for children comfortable with nature walks.