North Ostrobothnia

A large coastal region in northern Finland, combining the city of Oulu with the outdoor scenery of Kuusamo, Ruka and Oulanka National Park.

North Ostrobothnia lies in northern Finland, with the Gulf of Bothnia to the west and the Russian border to the east. It is a vast region stretching from the coastal plain to the hilly wilderness of the east. The main city, Oulu, is the north's technology and cultural center and was named a European Capital of Culture for 2026; Kuusamo and Ruka in the east are popular ski resorts, and Oulanka National Park's Bear's Trail is known for its canyons, rapids and suspension bridges. Summer suits hiking and boating; in winter you can ski, try snow-and-ice activities and have a chance to see the northern lights. Oulu Airport and Kuusamo Airport are the main gateways, and the railway connects to Helsinki.

Destinations

• Oulu
• Ruka & Kuusamo

Itineraries

• Karhunkierros (Bear's Trail) Trek in Oulanka – Hike about 80 km along the Oulankajoki and Kitkajoki rivers, crossing suspension bridges, canyons, and rapids to Ruka.
• West Coast, Arctic Highway & North Cape Road Trip – Drive north from Turku along the west coast, passing through Oulu, Rovaniemi, and Inari, all the way to the North Cape…