One of the most underrated seasons in Finland is ruska; the Finnish term for autumn. Nowhere can the dramatic colours been seen more vibrantly than in Lapland where for two weeks the explosion of colour paints the fells, forests and hills in deep tones before the winter sets in.

Although ruska occurs all over Finland the phenomenon is especially evident in Lapland, where landscapes virtually explode into spectacular displays of colour. The peak season lasts two to four weeks in September and the latter half of the month is the most guaranteed time for leaf peeping.

Muonio

Harriniva Holiday Centre in Muonio is located along the Swedish border of Finnish Lapland and offers activities for the adventurous ruska traveller including river rafting and quad biking. Those who wish to enjoy ruska at a more relaxed pace can take a self-guided or escorted walk in the fells or a trip on a fishing boat (equipment and boats are available to rent).

The holiday centre also has one of the largest husky farms in Finland, housing approximately 400 dogs where visitors can meet the dogs and learn how they have become such an integral part of Lappish life. After a long day exploring the outdoors guests can relax at the hotel's wellness centre. The emphasis is very much on harnessing nature and the treatments and treatment ranges are designed to promote equilibrium and wellbeing and restore calm.

A three night break in peak leaf peeping season costs £219 per room from 13th – 16th September based on two sharing a safari style room with sauna.

For more information or to book please visit http://www.harriniva.fi/en/destinations/harriniva/accommodation/

Finnair flies from from London Heathrow or Manchester to Kittilä via Helsinki with lead in return fares from £268 including all taxes and charges. From Kittila there is a bus connection to Muonio. For further information and timetables please visit http://www.matkahuolto.fi/en/

Kilpisjärvi

Kilpisjärvi is a tiny village located in the north of Finland on the Norwegian / Swedish border. This peaceful village is one of the few places in the world where visitors can enjoy the Northern Lights and ruska simultaneously in an area of untamed natural beauty.

As well as kayaking on the lake, fell walking and climbing visitors can enjoy a traditional bracing dip in the lake followed by a  warming sauna.

The Tundrea Holiday Resort offers a range of accommodation. The Malla Chalet boasts an awe inspiring lakeshore location, sleeping up to eight people and boasting a personal sauna. A three night break in peak leaf peeping season costs €2,028.00 from the 13th – 16th September.

For more information or to book please visit http://www.tundrea.com/en/accommodations/make-a-reservation/

For more information about Kilpisjärvi  and the surrounding area please visit: http://www.tosilappi.fi/en/

Finnair flies from from London Heathrow or Manchester to Kittilä via Helsinki with lead in return fares from £268 including all taxes and charges. From Kittilä there is a bus connection to Kilpisjärvi. For further information and timetables please visit http://www.matkahuolto.fi/en/

Ylläs

Ylläs is one of Finland's most popular ski resorts during the winter months however in September, before the snowy winter season, the seven fells of the area offer great terrain for leaf peeping too. The Pallas-Ylläs National Park offers challenging trekking and walking and there are several round trip cycling routes taking in a combination of stunning scenery and authentic villages. Alternatively a relaxing session of horse riding is the perfect way to take in the countryside or visitors can travel on the gondola lift to the top of Ylläs fell from where the panormaic view is unbeatable.

For further details about these activities and how to book please visit http://www.yllas.fi/en/activities

Ylläs offers accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes from hotels with full service facilities to lodges, wood cabins and apartments. For further details and to book please visit http://www.yllas.fi/en/accommodation

Finnair flies from London and  Manchester to Kittilä via Helsinki with lead in return fares from £268 including all taxes and charges. From Kittila there is a bus connection to Ylläs. For further information and timetables please visit http://www.matkahuolto.fi/en/

Visit Finland online: visitfinland.com; facebook; twitter

- Ends - 

For further information on Finland, please visit www.visitfinland.com or contact Georgina Oakley or Jules Ugo on 0207 953 7470 or email firstname@lotus-uk.co.uk