3 Tastiest Berries You Can Find in a Finnish Forest

Lingonberries: The Tart Delight

Lingonberries, known as Puolukka in Finnish, are a staple in the Finnish forest landscape. These small, red berries are typically found in canopy forests and are ripe for picking between August and October. Unlike some other berries, lingonberries are plump and dry, making them easy to pick without staining your fingers or clothes.

Lingonberries are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. They can be used to make jams, juices, and even delicious pies, known locally as _puolukkapiirakka_. These pies are often served in Finnish cafés, offering a taste of the forest to locals and visitors alike. The berries are also rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to your diet.

Cloudberries: The Golden Treasure

Cloudberries, or Hilla in Finnish, are perhaps the most prized berries in Finnish Lapland. These golden-orange berries grow in marshes and are typically harvested from mid-July to early August. The short picking season makes them a rare and sought-after treat.

Cloudberries are not just delicious but also packed with nutrients. They contain high levels of vitamin C, vitamin E, and various minerals like magnesium and potassium. These berries are often used in desserts, jams, and even liqueurs. In Finland, cloudberry jam is traditionally served with bread cheese, creating a unique and delightful flavor combination.

Bilberries: The Blue Gem

Bilberries, known as Mustikka in Finnish, are another popular berry found in Finnish forests. These small, dark blue berries are usually ripe for picking from late July to early September. Bilberries are often confused with blueberries, but they are smaller and have a more intense flavor.

Bilberries are incredibly nutritious, rich in vitamins C and E, and packed with antioxidants. They are commonly used in Finnish cuisine to make pies, jams, and even traditional desserts like _Mustikkakukko_, a bilberry pie made with rye flour. The berries are also known for their health benefits, including improving vision and reducing inflammation.

Experience the Full Lapland Adventure with Us

At Lapland Lodge, we offer more than just a place to stay. Our log cabin complex includes a cozy log cabin, aurora rooms for viewing the Northern Lights, a traditional hut, and a Finnish sauna. After a day of berry picking, you can relax in our jacuzzi or enjoy a sauna session to unwind.

We also provide a wide range of activities and excursions, all planned and guided by our experienced local guides. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply exploring the natural beauty of Lapland, we can help you plan the perfect adventure. Our guided tours ensure that you experience the best of what Lapland has to offer, responsibly and sustainably.

Book your stay with us at Lapland Lodge and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Finnish Lapland. From berry picking to guided excursions, we offer a complete Lapland experience that you’ll never forget.