Exploring the great outdoors

Outdoor Artisans is a family-owned company that offers tailored activities and guided trips that explore the best that Finland’s northern nature has to offer.

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Outdoor Artisans

Antti Siltala and Venla Saari are both trained wilderness guides whose combined experience allows visitors to enjoy nature from a unique perspective. Be it hiking, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), cycling, fishing or snow surfing, there is no shortage of activities to try at Outdoor Artisans. “We want to offer people unforgettable nature experiences in great places and provide an opportunity for trying something new and interesting,” Siltala says.

Outdoor Artisans is located in the village of Pyhäjärvi near Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Their services are based on sustainability and respecting the surrounding nature. “Our goal is to organise safe, memorable and responsible trips for our guests,” he continues.

Memorable experiences all year round

Throughout the year, the couple offer visitors a unique chance to try a range of quirky adventures in northern Finland’s wilderness. In the winter, guests can make their own snow surfboard at the snow surf camps. The camp also includes a snow surfing (also known as ‘snurfing’) trip in or near Pyhä-Luosto national park.

Other winter activities include winter SUP and Arctic e-fatbiking, as well as an Arctic water experience, where guests learn how to rescue themselves from weak ice on a frozen lake.

In the summer and autumn, Outdoor Artisans offer a large range of activities such as SUP and packraft excursions in the Nuorttijoki River, surrounded by stunning canyon scenery.

Siltala is a professional fisherman, so naturally, he also organises guided fishing trips. “Fishing has been an integral part of local culture and tradition for centuries. The fishing experience allows visitors to gain insight into the lifestyle and culture of the area,” he explains. www.outdoorartisans.fi

Outdoor Artisans are keen to offer visitors a tailored and intimate experience, which is why group sizes are kept fairly small. The excursions are available for beginners as well as more experienced guests. “For us, it’s all about enjoying our favourite pastimes and taking guests along with us. It’s a wonderful way to show them the authentic manner through which to enjoy all that the beautiful nature has to offer here,” Siltala concludes.

Instagram: @outdoorartisanspyha

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