Everyman’s Rights – the right to roam

nature is present everywhere

Even in the cities, nature is never far away. Helsinki is situated within its own archipelago and small ferries will take you to nearby islands in a matter of minutes. There are also wild woods in Helsinki proper where you can escape to tranquility under a canopy of trees and do some forest bathing. Always, ALWAYS, carry your rubbish back with you, recycle and never litter.

remember to respect the nature

Just 45 minutes outside of Helsinki city centre is Nuuksio National Park, offering breathtaking scenery, a diverse landscape and a wide range of activities from hiking and canoeing to horseback riding and swimming. You will discover wild forests, clean lakes and rocky hills which, in some places, rise 110 metres above sea level. The valleys and gorges here were formed during the Ice Age and remnants of old growth forest provide a natural habitat for many rare mosses, lichens, fungi and animal species including the endangered flying Siberian squirrel. Please remember to stay on the path when you can – this helps preserve the fragile eco-systems in place. While you may pick berries and mushroom, never cut wood or otherwise disturb the flora or fauna.

pure nature equals vibrant wildlife

Finns never lost their connection to the land and have an intimate knowledge of the natural world. It features prominently in their literature such as the national folk epic, The Kalevala, and in the books that children grow up with. Most people would be able to tell you the names of many of the trees, plants, mushrooms, wild herbs and berries that grow in the forest, as well as the wildlife that inhabit it.

Elk, wolf, lynx (pictured), wolverine and bear are just some of the wild animals that live in the vast Finnish forests. These animals are not a danger to men – quite the contrary. They tend to shy away from people. Should you wish to see or photograph them from close by, there are places designated to wildlife-watching such as bear-watching excursions at Bear Kuusamo or Wild Taiga by Finland’s eastern border. However never aim to feed or otherwise disturb a wild animal, in the nature you are visiting their home after all.

be self-sufficient – pick some berries

Foraging is an age-old practice in Finland and still very much a part of the culture. Finns head to the woods in numbers to gather wild, seasonal foods that are free for the picking. The Finnish forests are covered in nutrient-rich arctic superfoods in summer and early autumn thanks to the Nordic climate, offering a short but bountiful growing season.

So go ahead and help yourself! Feast on unlimited wild blueberries and, if you are in Lapland, hunt for the more exotic cloudberry growing in the swamplands and bogs. Experience the thrill of discovery when you come across a cluster of bright yellow chanterelles. These delicious mushrooms are the most sought after delicacies of the forest and it’s a bit like striking gold.

Just remember, there are plenty of berries and mushrooms in the forests. Don’t go too close to someone’s house – be respectful and keep away from sight. Only pick what you can eat!

it’s all about balance and respect

With the universal right to the land comes a responsibility to preserve it. There are many fragile eco-systems in Finland, particularly in the north. Thirty percent of Lapland is now protected and the Nordic climate that produces such an abundance of wild foods in summer can also be harsh and unforgiving. Slow-growing lowland vegetation such as lichens, mosses and dwarf shrubs are easily damaged and rocky fells are sensitive to erosion.

Ancient glacial rocks along the coast are similarly sensitive and at risk. Please tread carefully and keep out of restricted areas which are there to protect vulnerable environments and wildlife such as nesting birds.

the rules for the guest

When you are on private land, remember that you are not only a guest in nature, but a guest of the landowner. You may wander freely and swim, cycle, canoe, go hook and line or ice fishing and even set up a tent for the night in some places, but use your best judgement and respect the privacy and rights of others too. Don’t camp too close to a home or venture into private gardens.

Avoid excessive noise and take care not to disturb any local wildlife. Don’t collect mosses, lichens and plant-life that should stay where they belong and, most importantly, leave zero waste and no human footprint behind. Finnish have zero tolerance to noise and littering in the beloved nature – be like a Finn and respect the land and its inhabitants.

It is illegal to litter, but consider not creating any garbage in the first place. Avoid disposables, re-use, up-cycle and roam the countryside as an eco-tourist and you will help keep Finland wild and beautiful. If you are ever unsure about your rights or doings in the nature – ask a Finn you encounter in great outdoors. We love talking about our nature and always willing to share some bushman craft skills tips too.