Repovesi: a breath of purity in the heart of Finnish nature

Vol.28, Issue 07, 31 October 2025

On Wednesday, October 22, I had the chance to join a trip organized by Xamk’s Student Well-being services to the Repovesi National Park. Only about an hour from Kouvola, it’s a real gem of nature. We hiked eight kilometers through lakes, forests, and cliffs. Along the way, I noticed many beautiful details, and above all, I felt something I had never experienced before: a place that feels completely pure.

From the very first steps on the trails, I noticed how clean everything looked and felt amazed. I didn’t see a single piece of trash or plastic bottle anywhere. Even the picnic areas stayed spotless. You can really feel how much Finns respect their environment. Coming from France, I immediately noticed the difference: in my country, a place like this probably wouldn’t stay as well preserved. Here, everyone seems to understand that nature belongs to everyone and that we must protect it.

Despite the cold and the autumn humidity, we managed to fully enjoy the moment. Moreover, we dressed appropriately, and since the beautiful landscapes surrounded us, we quickly settled in and soon completely absorbed ourselves in the peaceful atmosphere of the park. Overall, it felt like a true immersion into Finland, with silence, nature, pure air, and simplicity. For example, at one point, we crossed a lake using a small wooden raft that we pulled ourselves with a rope. Without any electricity or engines, just relying on human effort and calm surroundings. This simple moment helped me completely disconnect from everyday life.

When I came back, I felt it was important to write about this trip. Indeed, while Finnish people might see places like Repovesi as normal because they experience this kind of nature every day. For a foreigner, it still feels truly impressive and remarkable. Repovesi is not just a national park: it’s a lesson in respect, simplicity, and well-being.