retkeilystä

Retkeily is a Finnish term that translates to hiking or trekking. It encompasses a wide range of outdoor activities, from short day trips to multi-day expeditions in natural environments. The core idea of retkeily is to experience and enjoy nature, often involving walking, camping, and appreciating the landscape.

Finland, with its vast forests, numerous lakes, and extensive national parks, provides ample opportunities for retkeily. Many Finnish people engage in this activity regularly, viewing it as a healthy and accessible way to connect with the outdoors. Retkeily can be undertaken individually, with family, or in groups, and it caters to various fitness levels and interests.

Typical retkeily activities include walking on marked trails, exploring wilderness areas, fishing, berry picking, and mushroom foraging. During longer trips, camping in tents or staying in wilderness huts is common. The emphasis is usually on self-sufficiency and respecting the natural environment, often following the principles of "Everyman's rights" (Jokamiehenoikeudet), which grant broad access to the countryside. Retkeily is deeply ingrained in Finnish culture, promoting physical well-being and mental restoration through engagement with nature.