Kajaani is an intersection between the north and the south, offering the best of both climates. The islands of Lake Oulujärvi are popular year-round destinations. The small town is the former residence of many prominent Finns. Where exactly does “the north” begin? There are many answers to this, depending on the respondent's point of view and location. Our answer is Kajaani, or as the locals say Kajjaani, which is clearly one of the northern destinations on our holiday in Finland. One thing we can say for sure about Kajaani is that the town combines the best of the northern and southern Finnish climates: in winter it is cold and snowy and in summer it is hot and sunny. The clear seasonal variation is one of Kajaani's major pros at a time when, unfortunately, a large part of Southern Finland seems to suffer from a grey and eternal November during the winter months. Kajaani is known for its hiking destinations, which are no-brainer choices especially for those who like nature, but who do not want to commit to long and ascetic wilderness hikes further north. There is plenty to explore on the islands of Lake Oulujärvi and the islands are within easy reach of Kajaani city centre. In the winter, a fit traveller can even ski their way to one of the islands! The most spectacular of the Oulujärvi islands is the nature reserve Ärjänsaari, which has a history full of colorful stages. The island has served as a holiday island for a forest company, a safe haven for tar swellers and a hideout for lake robbers. The rugged pine forest is full of old and large trees that bring an ancient atmosphere to the island. The island is surrounded by a path about ten kilometers long, but there are also shorter routes to explore. Ärjä means a windy area or a steep cliff, which is evident when admiring the scenery on the beach. In addition to hiking and lounging on the beach, Ärjänsaari offers excellent berry picking places. You just have to get there before the harvest is emptied into the buckets of others! If you appreciate nature but also some comfort, head to Rehjansaari, where you can rent cottages even for larger parties. Most of the premises are also winter habitable, so you can go on a trip all year round. In the summertime, Rehjansaari is also suitable for budget travellers, as you can camp for free in the area and use the firewood available to heat your own meals. In addition to nature, Kajaani attracts travellers because of its rich history. The castle ruins located right in the centre and the tar canal previously used for tar transport are the most popular attractions in the city centre. Kajaani has also been home to a number of formidable Finns in the 19th and 20th centuries. Elias Lönnrot, who compiled our national epic Kalevala, worked as a district doctor in the town. Eino Leino, one of Finland’s most loved poets, lived his childhood in the village of Paltaniemi. President Urho Kekkonen, who held office from mid 1950s until early 1980s, studied in Kajaani in his teens before his lengthy political career started. The north starts in Kajaani, a town of rich history, great hiking opportunities and quite possibly the best climate in all of Finland. Book your tickets and go on an adventure onboard OnniBus!
