The city of Tampere stands amid the lakes of southern Finland, 11 miles north of the capital Helsinki via National Route Three. Tampere Pirkkala Airport is eight miles southwest. The Seitseminen and Helvetinjärvi national parks are close enough to explore if you hire a car in Tampere. All the typical Nordic outdoor activities are available in the region, like winter skiing and ice-fishing, and summer kayaking and golf. Walkers head for the Pyynikki Ridge and its Observation Tower and the Hatanpaa Arboretum and don't miss the pretty wooden houses in the bohemian village of Pispala. There's a 1-year-old traditional sauna and pool here too.
Tampere is the biggest inland city in Scandinavia. If you hire a car in Tampere You'll find that it's an industrial centre standing between Lakes Näsijärvi and Pyhäjärvi. These are linked by the Tammerkoski Rapids that run through the city and provide hydro-electric power. The lakes are popular for boat trips and watersports in the summer, and for skiing and walking in the winter. Many head for the Viking remains on Viikinsaari Island. Elsewhere look out for family-friendly Särkänniemi theme park and zoo, the Moomin Museum and the landmark 550ft Näsinneula Tower, which provides stunning views across the lakes.
