*pr-event / ad with Wine & Tapas Helsinki restaurant
Inspired by the International World Tapas Day, I found myself dreaming about where in Helsinki one could indulge in tapas every single day of the year. And before I even had the chance to say my thought out loud, an invitation appeared in my inbox — to a brand-new restaurant called Wine & Tapas Helsinki. It had just opened its doors in Kamppi, right by Narinkkatori Square.
True to its name, Wine & Tapas Helsinki draws inspiration from the Spanish tapas culture. However, Head Chef Jani Pajala does not confine himself to one cuisine or country. He says he learned in Mexico that good food knows no borders – it is all about combining the best flavors and traditions. During his long international career, Pajala has discovered that Finnish cheeses, mushrooms, and vegetables can be transformed beautifully into tapas.
Wine & Tapas Helsinki restaurant in Kamppi, Helsinki
It was therefore a pleasure to taste the restaurant’s creations, accompanied by wine, right in the heart of Helsinki. The tapas menu at Wine & Tapas Helsinki changes every couple of months according to the seasons and customer preferences. Wines are given special attention: thanks to an innovative wine system, even rarer wines can be ordered by the glass without compromising their aroma. There are also completely non-alcoholic options available. In addition, the restaurant continues the popular lunch tradition of its predecessor, The Plaza Wine & Craft Beer.
For those with a sweet tooth, the menu includes organic tea served with a classic crema catalana, which elegantly crowns the meal. And although tapas can certainly be enjoyed alone — perhaps in the future accompanied by live jazz — they taste best in good company and shared, just as the spirit of the original tapas culture suggests.
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Wine & Tapas restaurant, Helsinki
Among the culinary highlights were cheeses with olives and red wine, Italian arancini – a mushroom and rice croquette – and the incredibly delicious les patatas tostadas, small deep-fried potatoes with skins, as well as grilled cauliflower with hummus. Together, these made an excellent tapas combo for a lacto-ovo vegetarian. Of course there were also classics such as air-dried ham and other fish and meat options available in this new Wine&Tapas Helsinki restaurant.
In the heart of Finland, surrounded by scenic lakes and pristine forests, lies one of the country’s most captivating nature destinations – Ähtäri Zoo. This historic wildlife park first opened its doors in 1973 and, over the decades, has grown into a diverse destination where animals, nature, culture, and tradition come together.
Ähtäri offers a chance to see Finland’s most iconic wild animals – the bear, lynx, moose, wolverine, and reindeer – in a natural environment that closely resembles their native habitats. At the same time, visitors can also encounter rare guests from around the world, such as the snow leopard from the Himalayas, symbolizing international cooperation in wildlife conservation.
Owl in Ähtäri ZooBeautiful Forest in Ähtäri Zoo, Finland
An authentic nature experience in Inha – more than just a zoo
A visit to Ähtäri Zoo, located in the village of Inha, feels less like a typical zoo trip and more like a tranquil walk through a Finnish forest. Long wooden bridges and nature trails guide visitors through pine woods, past marshlands, and alongside clear ponds. Each step reveals a new view, and often animals appear unexpectedly from the forest, as if you were part of their world.
Along the trails, informative signs provide fascinating facts about the animals, their behavior, and habitats – engaging for both adults and children. Visitors can also pause to listen to the silence: the rustle of the forest, birdsong, and the whisper of wind through the trees. It’s an unforgettable experience impossible to replicate in the noise of a big city.
Bears, snow leopards, and predators of the North
Ähtäri Zoo is especially famous for its bears – the true kings of the Finnish wilderness. Their strength and calm presence can be admired safely up close. Watching them being fed or bathing in summer is a moment that brings a smile to every visitor’s face. The wolverine and lynx, creatures of northern mystery that are rarely seen in the wild, can also be observed here, eye to eye. The snow leopard, a majestic rarity from the Himalayan mountains, is among the park’s most enchanting sights.
Ähtäri’s former residents, the panda pair Lumi and Pyry, brought the park global attention and reminded visitors of the importance of conservation. After their departure, the Panda House was renamed Nature House Mesitassu and now focuses on endangered species and environmental education.
Autumn Colors in October at Ähtäri Zoo, FinlandBeard lichen in the Ähtäri Zoo is a sign of extremely good air quality in the region
Farm life – a slice of Finnish countryside
Next to the zoo lies a traditional farm, “Farmi,” where visitors can meet familiar residents of the Finnish countryside: cows, sheep, goats, ponies, and hens, among others. Children can learn how milk was produced before modern milking machines, and adults often find themselves immersed in nostalgia, recalling rural memories from their own childhoods.
Many stop to pet a gentle cow or feed the goats – simple yet deeply touching moments that remind us of our connection to animals and the land that sustains us.
Hotel Mesikämmen – accommodation by the lake
Right next to Ähtäri Zoo stands the legendary Hotel Mesikämmen, a destination in its own right. Built in the 1970s, the hotel is an architectural gem, partially carved into the bedrock and seamlessly blending with the surrounding landscape.
Its rooms overlook a tranquil lake, and the hotel restaurant serves delicious meals as well as an excellent breakfast buffet with many gluten-free and lactose-free options.
Best of all, Ähtäri is easily reachable even without a car – you can take a train from Helsinki and enjoy scenic views along the way. The journey takes only a few hours, making Hotel Mesikämmen an excellent choice for car-free travelers.
Reindeer in Ähtäri Zoo, FinlandMandarin duck at Ähtäri Zoo
Ähtäri needs travelers’ support
Due to the effects of the Covid pandemic, the pandas’ departure, and the impacts of the Russia’s attack in Ukraine, Ähtäri Zoo has faced financial challenges in recent years. Yet this valuable Finnish destination remains an essential part of Finland’s national heritage – a place where generations have learned to appreciate nature and its diversity. I, too, visited Ähtäri both as a child and an adult, and it has always held a special meaning.
Read how you can help support Ähtäri Zoo!
It is a provenly rewarding and educational experience to visit Ähtäri Zoo first as a schoolchild and later as an adult – an experience I wholeheartedly recommend sharing with your own children.
For those with a car or camper van, Ähtäri also makes a perfect day trip. In any case, visiting is a meaningful way to support Finnish wildlife and conservation work.
Autumn colors, forest stillness, and a clear starry sky
October is an especially beautiful time to visit Ähtäri. The forests of Inha glow in vivid autumn hues – red, orange, and gold. The air is crisp, and the surface of the lake lies perfectly still. The animals prepare for winter, and the park radiates a peaceful atmosphere that makes the visit truly unforgettable. If you stay overnight at the hotel, you can admire the forest’s silence and the star-filled sky from your own balcony.
Autumn in Inha and Ähtäri also provides wonderful opportunities for photography – landscapes, wildlife, and nature shots alike. The soft daylight and rich natural colors make every image unique. All photos in this article I filmed in October 2024.
Road in the Forest at Ähtäri Zoo
Why choose Ähtäri Zoo?
Ähtäri Zoo perfectly combines experience, education, and respect for nature. It’s ideal for anyone wishing to experience Finnish nature up close – without a long trek into the wilderness or a national park. You can spend the day among animals, relax in your hotel room watching TV and lake views while others explore the bears, and then enjoy a comfortable night before returning home refreshed.
Buy the ticket online and support Ähtäri Zoo to continue its functions
Ähtäri Zoo is Finland’s oldest and most natural-style wildlife park. The 3-kilometre forest trail takes you through peaceful scenery where you can encounter over 60 different animal species. With a Zoo ticket, you can explore both the main wildlife park and the charming farm area. Visitors can choose between a one-day ticket or a two-day pass, which allows entry on both days during regular opening hours.
The zoo trail introduces you to animals from the northern hemisphere while you enjoy the calm and beauty of Finnish nature. In summer, you’ll find a cosy café along the route, and picnic spots are available year-round for a relaxing break surrounded by nature.
Your Zoo ticket also includes access to the nostalgic Ähtäri Zoo Farm — a lovely journey into the past. The traditional Ostrobothnian farmhouse and its outbuildings create a unique rural atmosphere. The friendly farm hosts are happy to introduce visitors to the animals living there: cows, horses, cats, chickens, goats, rabbits, and sheep.
ARRIVING AT ÄHTÄRI ZOO
Ähtäri Zoo is easy to reach from many directions, located in the heart of South Ostrobothnia, Central Finland, and Pirkanmaa. The address is Karhunkierros 150, 63920 Ähtäri. Distances: Seinäjoki 80 km (about 1 hour), Jyväskylä 120 km (1.5 hours), Tampere 140 km (2 hours), and Helsinki 300 km (around 4 hours). From Ähtäri town centre, the zoo is only 7 kilometres away.
By car When you arrive in Ähtäri, just follow the signs marked “Eläinpuisto” (Zoo). Parking areas are located right in front of the zoo entrance as well as a short walking distance away. Address: Karhunkierros 150, Ähtäri.
By train The Zoo has its own train stop, listed on VR’s website under “Ähtärin eläinpuisto Zoo.” From the stop, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the main entrance. You can check train timetables and buy your tickets in advance at www.vr.fi.
By bus The closest bus stop is about 1.2 kilometres from the entrance, located along Highway 18 between Inha and Myllymäki.
ACCESSIBILITY Ähtäri Zoo, the Farm, and the Panda House are all accessible for visitors with mobility challenges. There are a few designated disabled parking spaces available right by the main entrance.
MORE TO EXPERIENCE Ähtäri Zoo is part of a larger travel area surrounded by scenic forests and Lake Hankavesi. Within the area, you’ll find accommodation options, restaurants, outdoor activities, the Flowpark adventure park, a spa, a bowling alley, the event arena Ähtäri Hall, and even a full-size golf course — all within easy reach for a perfect getaway in nature.
Ähtäri offers peace, inspiration, and authentic Finnish atmosphere – whether you are a solo traveler, a family visitor, or a nature photographer.
Now, as autumn is at its finest, it’s the perfect time to pack your camera, dress warmly, and head to Ähtäri.
Experience Finnish nature and wildlife – right where they truly belong.
Last week, the Ateneum Art Museum in Helsinki unveiled a historic exhibition that, for the very first time in Finland, brings together paintings by the Austrian master Gustav Klimt. The exhibition, Gallen-Kallela, Klimt & Wien, runs until early February 2026 and offers a rare opportunity to admire Klimt’s works in Finland and outside his native Austria.
Visiting the exhibition instantly took me back to the summer of 2024, when I traveled all the way from Finland to Vienna, especially to experience Klimt’s art in its true home. The Klimt paintings now hanging in the Ateneum come directly from Vienna’s Belvedere Museum – the very place I visited last year.
Klimt’s Treasures in Vienna
Vienna is a city where art is woven into every corner, from gilded palaces to modern museums. Klimt’s works can be found in several collections across the city, but his most famous painting, The Kiss, is permanently housed in the Upper Belvedere Palace.
On my first ever trip to Vienna, I missed the chance to see The Kiss and left Vienna feeling slightly disappointed. That unfinished business brought me back to Vienna, determined to see Klimt’s golden masterpiece in person at the Belvedere. Though the palace’s façade was covered in scaffolding at the time, nothing diminished the power of standing inside face-to-face with the shimmering canvas that has become one of the world’s most iconic images of love.
Watch this short video of Belvedere in Vienna
The Upper Belvedere – A Palace of Art
The Upper Belvedere is not only home to Klimt’s masterpieces but also a masterpiece itself. Completed in 1723 as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy, the palace is a jewel of Baroque architecture. Today it houses one of Austria’s most important art collections, spanning centuries and including works by Egon Schiele, Oskar Kokoschka, and many other European masters.
Walking through its grand marble halls, past frescoed ceilings and lavish stucco ornamentation, you can sense the grandeur of imperial Vienna. And then, in a softly lit gallery, you find The Kiss. Surrounded by Klimt’s other works such as Judith and several evocative landscapes, the painting draws thousands of visitors each year, each one captivated by its luminous gold leaf and timeless intimacy.
Gardens of Symmetry and Elegance
The Belvedere is an entire palace complex framed by exquisite gardens. The Upper and Lower Belvedere are connected by formal Baroque gardens inspired by French design. Straight pathways, perfectly aligned flowerbeds, statues, and fountains create a striking sense of symmetry.
From the terraces of the Upper Belvedere, one of Vienna’s most beautiful panoramas unfolds: the gardens stretch toward the Lower Palace and beyond to the city skyline. Seasonal flower plantings add color, while the sculptures and fountains lend an air of timeless elegance. Best of all, the gardens are open to the public free of charge, making them a favorite spot for both leisurely walks and photography.
How to Visit the Belvedere
The Belvedere complex is located in Vienna’s third district and is easy to reach by tram or metro from the city center. Entrance to the Upper Belvedere requires a ticket, but wandering the gardens is free. Many visitors combine the two – first exploring Klimt’s masterpieces indoors, then stepping outside to enjoy the palace gardens, just like I did. Together they make for a perfect half-day experience in Vienna.
A Cultural Gem in the Heart of Vienna
The Belvedere combines everything that defines Vienna: imperial history, Baroque splendor, and world-class art. Whether you come to admire Klimt’s The Kiss, explore the palace interiors, or simply wander through its elegant gardens, the Belvedere offers an unforgettable cultural experience in Austria’s capital.
And now, thanks to the Ateneum’s exhibition in Helsinki, you don’t even need to travel all the way to Vienna to see Klimt’s art. For Finnish audiences, this winter offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to step into Klimt’s golden world without leaving Helsinki.
Belvedere art Museum in Vienna, Austria, housing Gustav Klimt’s art
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