Over the past week, there has been high solar activity, resulting in beautiful northern lights all around the archipelago. Were you lucky enough to catch a glimpse?

Ruska is at its peak in the archipelago, and the colors are truly stunning! Some great spots to enjoy the fall foliage include the Lenholmen nature trail in Pargas, the Westerholm nature trail in Nagu, the island of Seili, and the village centers around the churches.

Photo 1. Archipelagophoto / Janne Gröning

A beautiful autumn morning with the sun shining through the mist and sparkling frost on every leaf — autumn in the archipelago is perfect for those who love stunning landscapes! Our best photography tip is to head out early in the morning; you might even be lucky enough to spot a deer or a fox sneaking through the frosty grass.

The leaves on the trees and bushes will soon start changing from lush green to fiery red, orange, and yellow colors. The fields take on a golden-brown hue, and the evenings become darker. This means that autumn is here, and with it, mushroom season – perhaps the most delightful time of the year!

In Finland, we have the right of public access, which means that as long as you’re not on marked private land, near someone’s house, or damaging nature, you have the right to enjoy the forest’s treasures. What a luxury to be able to gather fresh ingredients directly from nature!

Here are a few simple ways to make the most of autumn’s mushroom harvest. A creamy bacon and mushroom pie, where salty bacon meets hearty mushrooms, is a classic that’s always appreciated. For those who prefer something vegetarian, leave out the bacon - mushrooms are incredibly tasty on their own too!
If you want to extend the season, you can preserve mushrooms in vinegar – perfect as a side dish for dinner or as a tasty gift. Dried mushrooms are also a favorite; use them as a spice in sauces and stews to enhance the flavors in your food. And finally, what could be better on a chilly autumn day than a warming chanterelle soup served with freshly baked bread?

PLEASE NOTE: Always be careful when picking mushrooms. Bring a mushroom guidebook or someone who knows their mushrooms well, to be sure of what you’re picking. If you’re uncertain, leave the mushroom in the forest. There are many poisonous mushrooms that should absolutely not be eaten!

In the archipelago, traditions and knowledge have been passed down from generation to generation. Farms, crafts, and food production are an essential part of the cultural heritage, where each generation has left its unique mark on the work. Here, locally grown and produced goods are not just a trend but a way of life, rooted in sustainability and respect for nature.

The archipelago is home to many charming local shops where you can find a wide variety of local delicacies and crafts. You can buy everything from potatoes and fresh vegetables to hand-knitted socks, homemade cakes, fresh bread, and rich fruit juices. Every product is carefully cultivated, crafted, and refined with love and care.

For those who want to experience the archipelago’s rich offerings and meet local entrepreneurs and vendors, the Archipelago Harvest Festival on September 14th & 15th 2024, is a must. This is the perfect opportunity not only to stock your pantry with delicious treats but also to get to know the people behind these wonderful products. The Harvest Festival offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where you can enjoy the community, taste local delicacies, and experience the traditions of the archipelago up close.

St. Olav Waterway is a pilgrimage route through the beautiful archipelago landscape between Finland and Sweden, forming part of a larger network that leads to Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, Norway, where St. Olaf, the patron saint of Norway, is buried.

The name "St. Olav" comes from King Olav II Haraldsson, also known as Olaf the Holy, who reigned in the 11th century. After his death, he was declared a saint and became a central figure in Nordic Christianity. Many pilgrimage routes, churches, and places in Scandinavia are named after him.

St. Olav Waterway was established in 2019 and is a modern pilgrimage route that combines walking and boat trips through the Åland and Turku archipelagos. The route starts in Turku and extends to Grisslehamn in Sweden, where it connects to other routes continuing towards Trondheim.

The route offers a unique opportunity to follow in the footsteps of medieval pilgrims through a fascinating natural and cultural landscape. Along the way, hikers can enjoy historical and religious sites, providing opportunities for reflection and exploration.

Want to read more? Check out the website www.stolavwaterway.com

Photo 1: Rania Rönntoft