Salpausselkä Geopark is a treasure trove for hikers and campers. The famous ski jump area has things to see and do all year round. Finland’s Motorcycle Museum is the place to go with family for some memorable photos. Next up on our holiday in Finland, one of the most legendary cities in the country, Lahti. Lahti has always been associated with a certain jagged and fierce image, resulting in the tongue-in-cheek nickname “Suomen Chicago” (Finland’s Chicago). On the other hand, many people consider Lahti to be the finest city in Finland. Let’s find out together what to make of this special city that 120,000 people call their home. One thing we can say for certain about Lahti is that it is one of the most spectacular lake cities in Finland. Lahti is located on the southern shore of Lake Vesijärvi and almost next to Lake Päijänne, Finland’s second largest lake. Päijänne is the ultimate destination in southern Finland for all travelers who like to relax on long canoe trips enjoying lush landscapes. Cruises and sup boarding are also available for visitors to Päijänne. There are also other ways to get acquainted with the lake and the surrounding Salpausselkä Geopark area. Pulkkilanharju, a scenic route about eight kilometers long, is especially popular among cyclists. This may very well be one of the most beautiful little routes in southern Finland and due to its length, you do not have to be a diehard cyclist to enjoy the ride. Pulkkilanharju also has a nature trail a couple kilometers long, where you can marvel at the unique tracks left by the ice age in the ridge landscape of the area. Trip to the heart of Salpausselkä The geological formation of ridges called Salpausselkä is strongly linked to Lahti’s identity. The name of the natural formation is familiar to at least all sports fans from the Salpausselkä Games, also known as Lahti Ski Games. The event, which gathers tens of thousands of live spectators and even more TV viewers, is one of the culminations of the winter sports season each year in Finland. The iconic large hill of Salpausselkä lies empty in the summer without jumpers, but the hill's lookout tower gives you an idea of the ski jump heights. The views are the best in Lahti, but a word of warning – the lookout tower is really high. For anyone suffering from acrophobia, it may be best to stay on the sub-slope. Beneath the hill you’ll find an outdoor swimming pool where you can take a refreshing dip while admiring the rugged ski jumping scenery. There is also a gym in the area for completing a summer workout before heading to the warmth of the local sauna. Pace your Lahti holiday in the Motorcycle Museum In case of a rainy day and a need to stay indoors, it’s worth booking some time to visit Finland’s only motorcycle museum. The museum's collection has over 100 motorcycles from different eras. The building is also home to a popular restaurant set up in a classic American diner style. Surrounded by old motorcycles and delicious burger scents, it's easy to forget that we’re living the early 2020s and not, say, 1950s! Unfortunately for all the speedsters out there, the vehicles stay in the museum, but there is plenty of eye candy for all bikers and memorable photos to explore later. The adventures of Lahti are just a pleasant bus ride away, onboard OnniBus.com. Book your tickets in just a few minutes and plan your trip to one of the most epic cities in Finland!
