It's not for nothing that the Finns are considered the happiest people in the world! Travel to the Saimaa Lake District and learn more about the deep connection to nature and horses. The perfect program for anyone looking to slow down, feel themselves and overcome their fears. Riding, sauna rituals and local delicacies await you at the "Blueberry Villa" at lake. A mindful summer retreat awaits you in an exclusively small group in southern Finland. The crystal-clear Saimaa is the largest lake in Finland and the perfect starting point for a journey back to nature. The horses sense the pristine tranquillity of this place and take you on relaxing rides between lakes and forests.

Itinerary

Slow Travel in the Saimaa Lake District (5 days)

Day 1: Arrival from 3 pm. You will be welcomed with a light drink at the Blaubeeren Villa. Together you will walk to the nearby stable and go for your first ride to get to know the horses and the surrounding area. Back at the villa, a dinner with local delicacies awaits you. Riding time approx. 1 hour.

Day 2: After a typical Karelian breakfast, you go on a short hike with your hostess. A grounding experience in communion with nature. You might even find some mushrooms for lunch. You spend the afternoon with the horses. In the evening you learn to cook like the Finns. You will prepare smoked salmon together, which you can taste around the campfire. Riding time approx. 2 hours.

Day 3: In the morning, after breakfast, you can indulge in various typical Finnish activities: Fishing, boating, stand-up paddling, cycling or berry picking - what do you fancy? At lunchtime, you will be served soup to fortify you for the afternoon ride. Together with the horses, you will explore the Ryngänsuo nature reserve. With a bit of luck, exciting seabirds will cross your path. After dinner, you will still have time for a good book or a nice chat in the garden. Riding time approx. 2.5 hours.

Day 4: In the morning, you meet for a light Pilates session of approx. 30 minutes. Weather permitting, this takes place on the terrace with a view of the tranquil lake Afterwards, you have time for yourself and alternative activities in nature or you can book an optional riding session (not included). After lunch, you can go on an island ride and explore new trails - without saddle if you wish. Feel the connection with your horse and let your mind wander. In the evening, meet up for an authentic Finnish sauna ritual and round off the last evening together with a cozy barbecue (vegetarian option also available). Riding time approx. 2 hours.

Day 5: Departure around 12 noon after a final brunch with local delicacies.


Riding & relaxing in the Saimaa Lake District (7 days)

1st - 4th day: Same program as "Slow Travel".

Day 5: After breakfast, set off on a rowing trip through the neighborhood. Learn more about the special features of the vast Saimaa lake area and let your hostess introduce you to the magic of island life. After a fortifying soup, you will go on a horseback ride with a cultural focus and get to know the rural life of Karelia. Riding time approx. 2 hours.

Day 6: Use nature to find yourself. Try to find out what your mind needs right now: a relaxing walk, a bike ride or would you like to go to lake again? After a delicious Finnish salmon soup, take one last ride to your favorite trail. Riding time approx. 2 hours.

Day 7: Departure around 12 noon after a final brunch with local delicacies.

Subject to change without notice!

Accomodation
You will spend the night in the small blueberry villa directly at lake. The typical Finnish log cabin with an inviting terrace was built in 1993. At your disposal to stand 3 double rooms with shared bathroom and sauna at lake. For cozy evenings you can take a seat at the stove of the common living room or at the nearby lakeside. All meals are included and made with love from local ingredients. For alternative activities to stand SUP boards, rowing boats, bicycles (including e-bikes) and typical Finnish garden games (such as Mölkky) are at your disposal.

Saddle & Tack: English saddles and snaffles.

Experience: The rider should possess, basic horsemanship skills, and be confident in all 3 basic gaits. Fearful riders are also welcome. Maximum rider weight: 70-100 kg (upon request).

Horses: Medium to large warmblood and Iberian horses.

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