The whirlpool in Myllykoski scenic area at winter in Oulanka National Park, Kuusamo, Finland

© Lassi Rautiainen/Minden Picture

Winter in the Finnish wilds

Don't be fooled by this frozen scene's tranquillity. Once the snow melts in northern Finland's Oulanka National Park, the river’s gentle swirl turns to deafening rapids. The partly frozen whirlpool churns near Myllykoski, a defunct mill that's now a resting point along Finland's busiest nature trail, Karhunkierros. The 80-kilometre route begins more than 800 kilometres north of Helsinki, where hikers can traditionally enjoy treks lit by the midnight sun. For determined skiers and snowshoers, portions of the trail often remain open throughout the frigid winter.