Visit Helsinki: Winter Gardens
In commercial collaboration with Helsinki Partners
You may remember during our first visit to Helsinki we enjoyed a visit to Kaisaniemi Botanic Gardens, so during our second visit we were keen to see what the the Winter Garden had to offer in a change of season. Just a short walk away from Central Park, the Winter Garden has been a recreational meeting place for the residents of Helsinki for over a century and is the perfect place to stop by on those wet and windy days when the weather is fast turning from Autumn to Winter.
It’s no surprise that Helsinki has been voted the happiest country in the world for the fifth year running as even on the coldest, wettest days, still being able to wander through nature within the indoor gardens located throughout the city is such a boost to your mood. It’s the one thing I feel we really lack in the UK, especially with our climate so unpredictable I just love how here in Helsinki they really prioritise not only feeling at one with nature, but happiness as a whole. That feel good factor is contagious and I can honestly say over the last year I have felt at my happiest here in this city.
In the Summertime the entrance to the Winter Garden is said to be beautiful with the rose gardens in full bloom. Perfectly placed so passers-by can admire the flowers, it’s a sight i look forward to seeing should we visit in the Summer. That said, even in the Autumn the entrance is so welcoming and as soon as you are through the doors you’re met by an elaborate oasis of exotic plants, trees and water features. It’s such a beautiful haven of calm and peace and the perfect spot to enjoy some time with your own thoughts.
One of the things which really strikes me about Helsinki and especially the Finnish way of life, is that even their most popular tourist attractions are subtle and understated, just as they are as people. They don’t need flashing lights and modern technology to draw in the crowds, although as I will share with you later their museums are spectacular, instead encouraging tourists to live as the locals do in this beautiful, care-free, considerate way of life where spending a couple of hours in a garden such as these is a breath of fresh air as you go about your day.
The children really enjoyed learning about the different plants and trees, especially the more exotic cacti and the origins of each. They also enjoyed the fish pond and the beautiful water features which added a much appreciated tropical feel on a wet and cold day outside. I loved watching the locals and how they used the space – two friends catching up, a local artist painting a canvas, a gentleman quietly reading his book. I am sure the inhabitants of Helsinki appreciate these gardens just as much as us tourists do and I love that they are free to enter for all.
Should you visit Helsinki, whatever the time of year, be sure to drop by the Winter Garden and see what’s in bloom. At Easter time they promise daffodils and tulips, at Christmas azaleas, hyacinths and lilies of the valley, plus the cactus room is a hit all year round especially with the children!
