Confused - 3 choices in different places in Finland

Hi there

We have a choice of 3 resorts (RCI). The one we were originally going to %26amp; had fully investigated is now full so, the investigation starts again :(

The suitable resorts are

1) Between Kuusamo %26amp; Ruka, fly into Kuusamo

2) Around Virrat, Parkano fly into Tampere

3) Around Kivijarvi,fly into Jyvaskyle

We are looking at going late August, early Sept. What would the weather be like around then? Would it be too cold to swim?

On a previous post someone mentioned that the autumn colours might be starting above the arctic circle and it would be very pretty. Does this start further down (option 2 and 3) only later in the year .. ie late Sept? Would we need to be north to see this? I am finding it difficult to choose. I was all keen to visit the arctic circle (because of the previous investigation) so option 1 is appealing but perhaps 2 and 3 are better as they are more typical of Finnish lakes %26amp; scenery.

If we did take option 2 or 3 how long would it take to drive up to the arctic circle for a day trip .. or is that crazy ?

We are 2 adults, and a 6 and 8 year old. We want a relaxing week, walking and enjoying the unit, but are also open to day trips exploring. ie we won%26#39;t just stay at the resort for the week. We love beautiful places and just want to see some of the best of Finland.

Any thoughts .. please help and give comments on the areas. Any specific attractions etc.

We probably need to book by tomorrow.

Thank you.

Ashley in Johannesburg, SA

PS Johnthfinn thank you for always taking time to reply .. I do appreciate it .. sorry that our destination options are changing all the time !

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Take option 1.

%26quot;On a previous post someone mentioned that the autumn colours might be starting above the arctic circle and it would be very pretty. Does this start further down (option 2 and 3) only later in the year%26quot;

Ruka might be in season around that time. To really enjoy that, you need to in aea where there are no or few trees that are green all year, ie preferably above the conifer belt. Count out opt 2 and 3.

%26quot;Would it be too cold to swim?%26quot; In a lake? Yes, usually.

%26quot;If we did take option 2 or 3 how long would it take to drive up to the arctic circle for a day trip .. or is that crazy ?%26quot;

Yes.

Choose opt 1 and hire a car for a couple of days and drive around, visit the Acrtic Circle etc.

I can%26#39;t imagine any reason to visit opt 2 and 3 off season, between mid-June to mid-August might be fine.