Finland’s Untouched Wilderness: A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers
Finland s raw travel destination is one – In the heart of Europe, Finland’s Lapland region has long been shrouded in a sense of mystery, its untamed beauty often overshadowed by the sparkle of Christmas markets and the allure of polar bears. Yet, for those seeking a more authentic escape, summer in this northernmost part of the country reveals a raw, unfiltered experience that feels worlds away from the tourist traps of winter. As Metro’s Video Editor Chris Rickett explains, the magic of Lapland isn’t confined to the holidays—it thrives in the warmth of summer, where the land transforms into a serene sanctuary for those who crave connection with nature.
The Midnight Sun and Its Challenges
While the winter months bring snow-covered landscapes and the iconic Northern Lights, Finland’s summer offers a different kind of wonder. The midnight sun, or Yöttömän yön aika, casts an eternal glow over the region, creating a surreal atmosphere where daylight lingers for weeks. But this phenomenon isn’t without its drawbacks. Swarms of insects, particularly the notorious Räkkäis (a Finnish term for biting flies), can make the experience feel more like a survival test than a vacation. Yet, as Rickett notes, these challenges are part of the charm—a reminder that paradise often comes with a few minor inconveniences.
For Rickett, the appeal of Lapland’s summer lies in its simplicity. “I’m drawn to the idea of stepping away from the noise of modern life and into a space where time slows down,” he says. This sentiment echoes a childhood memory of a summer cabin stay in Finland, which remains a cherished highlight of his life. “There were no distractions—just the sound of the forest, the feel of the earth, and the presence of nature without the filter of social media.” The experience, he argues, is about more than just the destination; it’s about the way the environment shapes the journey itself.
Reclaiming the Spirit of the Wilderness
As the world becomes increasingly digitized, many travelers find themselves struggling to disconnect. Kelly Forbes, CEO of the UK-based travel agency A’Aru Collective, highlights this trend. “Clients complain about the intrusion of everyday sounds—like birds at dawn in the Seychelles or the hum of distant traffic in remote cabins,” she told the BBC. These accounts reflect a growing disconnect between the idea of a wild retreat and the reality of modern expectations. For some, the goal isn’t to immerse themselves in nature but to curate an image of adventure, complete with curated Instagram moments.
Rickett, however, embraces the authenticity of the experience. “At Skog Aurora Igloos, the silence is so profound it feels like the world is holding its breath,” he recalls. “It’s not just about the view—it’s about the stillness, the way the air feels different, and the sense that you’re part of something larger than yourself.” This perspective aligns with the insights of Dr. Sonja Haustein, a professor at the Technical University of Denmark and environmental psychologist. “When people seek remote destinations, they’re often not just looking for a place to visit,” she says. “They’re looking for a way to define who they are and how they want to be perceived.” For Haustein, the pursuit of mökki—traditional Finnish cabins—can be both a retreat and a ritual, a way to disconnect from urban life while still maintaining the illusion of social status.
Despite the challenges of swarms and endless daylight, the summer months offer a unique opportunity to experience Lapland in its most unpolished form. The region’s remoteness means fewer crowds, more space to breathe, and a deeper connection to the land. For Rickett, this is what makes the experience truly special. “You’re not just a tourist—you’re a participant in a way of life that’s been untouched for centuries,” he says. It’s a place where the line between wilderness and comfort is blurred, and where the simplicity of nature becomes a form of luxury in itself.
Skýra Retreat: A Modern Twist on Tradition
Skýra Retreat, nestled in the town of Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland, stands as a testament to this balance. While it’s a luxury wellness oasis, its design is rooted in the essence of mökki culture. The retreat is built around the ruins of a 1950s village schoolhouse, a space that once served as a hub of community life and now offers a tranquil haven for those seeking respite from the modern world. “It’s a place where tradition meets innovation,” Rickett explains. “You get the peace of the forest without sacrificing comfort or service.”
Skýra’s summer season, however, is a relatively new chapter. Since opening at the end of 2025, the retreat has only had one winter season under its belt, meaning Rickett is one of the first to experience its summer offering. “This is the real test,” he says. “Will the staff go above and beyond, or will the isolation prove too much for even the most seasoned travelers?” His answer is a resounding yes. The retreat’s team, he claims, is fully committed to creating an environment where guests can truly unwind, with fine dining, yoga sessions, and personalized care that feels effortless.
But what truly sets Skýra apart is its ability to blend the rustic charm of mökki with contemporary amenities. Imagine a cabin where the trees whisper like waves, their branches swaying in the breeze as if the forest itself is alive. Picture wild swimming in waters that rank among the cleanest in the world, a natural gift that requires no pretense. And envision a getaway that doesn’t demand a transatlantic flight, making the magic of Lapland accessible without the burden of long-haul travel.
The Draw of a Less Romanticized World
Rickett’s journey to Skýra is part of a broader trend—travelers increasingly seeking destinations that feel genuine, not overly sanitized. “It’s about more than just the scenery,” he says. “It’s about the rawness of it all—the way the land feels untouched, the way the sun rises without warning, and the way the insects remind you that you’re not the only one enjoying the landscape.”
While some may view the challenges of a remote stay as drawbacks, Rickett sees them as essential. “You can’t have a real experience without a little struggle,” he argues. “The insects, the unpredictable weather, the lack of Wi-Fi—it all adds to the authenticity.” This philosophy is echoed in the broader conversation about mökki culture, which has long been a cornerstone of Finnish living. These cabins, often family-owned and located deep in the woods, are more than just places to sleep—they are sanctuaries that offer a glimpse into a simpler, more connected way of life.
As the world races toward convenience, Finland’s Lapland region remains a reminder of the beauty in simplicity. It’s a place where the air is crisp, the lakes are clear, and the silence is profound. For Rickett, this is the heart of the matter: “The real magic isn’t in the destination itself, but in the way it makes you feel—like you’re part of something ancient and enduring.”
Deals to Explore the Hidden Wilderness
For those eager to experience Finland’s summer magic, there are opportunities to make it more accessible. Metro Deals, powered by Wowcher, offers exclusive discounts on a range of packages, from spa days to beach retreats. Take, for example, the Bannatyne Spa deal—a treatment for two with lunch and prosecco, saving up to 57% off. Or the Mystery Escape package, which includes a hotel stay and return flights from as low as £92 per person. Even the Beach Retreat in Lanzarote, featuring a 4-star holiday with flights, can save up to 58% for the adventurous.
These deals make it easier to escape the hustle of daily life and immerse oneself in nature. Whether it’s the tranquility of a Finnish cabin, the serenity of a beachside retreat, or the thrill of a worldwide getaway, there’s something for every traveler. And with Finland’s Lapland offering a unique blend of wilderness and comfort, it’s becoming a favorite among those who value authenticity over extravagance.
As Rickett continues his solo journey through the pines, he’s not just proving a point to his friends—but also discovering a deeper connection to the land. “I’ve always thought that the best memories are the ones made in silence,” he says. “This trip is about finding that again, without the distractions of the modern world.” In a time when travel has become a curated experience, Finland’s summer retreats offer a chance to return to the basics: the rhythm of nature, the joy of simplicity, and the satisfaction of living in the moment.
