Overview
Ruka Finland Gravel Adventure
Dscover one of Europe’s most untouched gravel-riding destinations. This 8-day Ruka–Kuusamo adventure combines forest trails, lakeside views, wilderness camping, national parks, and authentic Finnish experiences.
You’ll explore scenic gravel routes, stay in a boutique hotel in the heart of Ruka Village, enjoy a wilderness overnight camp with sauna and campfire dining, and even paddle the peaceful Oulanka River. Choose to ride your own gravel bike or rent a high-quality Basso Tera for the week.
Perfect for riders who want adventure, nature, and varied terrain—without the stress of logistics.
Trip Highlights
- Stay in a cozy boutique hotel in Ruka Village (6 nights)
- Spend 1 night in a wilderness camp beside Lake Juumajärvi
- Ride diverse gravel routes with forest roads, dirt tracks, sandy climbs & paved sections
- Canoeing experience at Oulanka National Park
- Traditional Finnish sauna & wilderness dinner
- Scenic stops including Käylä, Lake Porontima & Kitka River
- Bike storage, transfers & optional activities included
Itinerary
Check-in to Hotel Arctic Zone
Take the evening to unwind and settle in. As you have received your room, the welcoming
briefing awaits. Meet a local guide and check your itinerary for the upcoming days.
Get your bike (own or rental*) ready and prepare yourself for the journey ahead. You can make
the most of your free time by exploring Ruka Village, visiting local shops and restaurants.
Possibility to strech your legs with an easy gravel route, before dinner.
The morning starts at your own pace; you can start your first longer self-guided gravel
adventure straight after the breakfast or later after a sturdy lunch at Restaurant Zone.
Make sure your equipment is ready, you have one of the most exciting gravel route ahead with
plenty of scenic routes to experience.
Route Details:
- Distance: 62.33 km
- Elevation: 746 m
- Surface: 8% paved, 83% dirt
- Duration: 2.5–3.5 hrs
The morning starts with gravel ride from Ruka to Pohjantähti Wilderness camp.
This 56 km route starts from Ruka, goes through a some of the region’s most beautiful
observation points (view to Lake Porontima and Käylänkoski rapids), located at the village of
Käylä. As the ride continues from Käylä towards the wilderness camp, it follows along the
northern side of the Kitka Joki river.
After arriving at the Pohjantähti wilderness camp, located at Lake Juumajärvi, you’ll settle in
for a unique night outdoors, either in a tent or a hammock. A hearty outdoor lunch will be
served by the fire, followed by some peaceful time to relax at your own pace. As the evening
unfolds, a traditional sauna and a delicious campfire dinner await – the perfect way to unwind
after an active day in nature.
Route Details:
- Distance: 56.08 km
- Elevation: 572 m
- Surface: 35% paved, 65% dirt
- Duration: 2.5–3.5 hrs
After an outdoor breakfast at the camp, a transfer to Oulanka National Park, where a guided
canoeing trip at the beutiful Oulanka river awaits. This easy activity is a chance to explore
nature’s wonders at its best. The duration of canoeing is approximately 4 hours. An outdoor
lunch is included.
After canoeing and lunch, it is time to jump back on your bike. The day
continues with a gravel route from Oulanka river to Ruka village.
Route Details:
- Distance: 39.17 km
- Elevation: 607 m
- Surface: 21% paved, 79% dirt
- Duration: 2–2.5 hrs
After recharging in the comfort of your hotel bed, the morning starts at your own rhythm.
Today’s focus: recovery and fine-tuning your gear for the gravel roads ahead.
No scheduled activities for today, but a good chance for a scenic hike to Valtavaara Trail or
Pyhävaara Trail.
Remember to ask for recommendations and available guided activities for the day!
The day’s gravel ride is a 47 km loop in Kuusamo region. This route shows the best views of the
town and its surrounding areas. Route consists of variable surfaces – paved roads, fine sandy
hills, narrow forest roads and single track.
Transfer service to starting point and pick-up service on your return to Ruka is included.
Route Details:
- Distance: 47.59 km
- Elevation: 372 m
- Surface: 22% paved, 78% dirt & gravel
- Duration: 2–2.5 hrs
Gear up for your final gravel challenge, taking on the Route Master’s favorite segments in the
area. A local cyclist will guide you through a demanding yet rewarding 40–80 km ride, blending
endurance with discovering beautiful scenery.
Along the way, you’ll pause at a traditional reindeer farm and refuel with coffee. This ride
delivers both grit and authentic Ruka experiences, you can expect surprises until the very end.
Route Details:
- Distance: 40–80 km
- Duration: 2–4 hrs
- Elevation: Varies
Airport transfer from Ruka to Kuusamo KAO
As you check out and prepare to depart at your leisure, you’ll carry with you unforgettable
memories of an epic multi-day gravel experience — one that took you through Finland’s most breathtaking nature, from winding forest trails to serene waterways and rugged wilderness paths.
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- 6 nights at Hotel Arctic Zone (double room)
- 1 night at Pohjantähti Wilderness Camp (tent or hammock)
- Finnish sauna & wilderness dinner
- Canoeing at Oulanka River
- 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 1 wilderness dinner
- Gravel bike rental (Basso Tera) plus helmet; own clip on pedal required, comes with flat pedals as standard.
- Guided & self-guided gravel rides
- GPX route files
- Bike storage
- Airport transfers
- Support from local guides
Excludes
- International flights to/from Finland
- Travel insurance (mandatory for all participants)
- Alcoholic beverages and personal drinks
- Optional activities or excursions not listed in the itinerary
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks, laundry, etc.)
- Bike repair costs for personal bikes (parts, damage, maintenance)
- Tips and gratuities
- Any additional transfers outside the scheduled itinerary
- Extra nights before or after the tour
- Single room supplement (if requested)

