Discover Ylä-Tuuhonen Farm, a captivating 400-year-old ancestral home nestled on the shores of Lake Tarjanne in Finland’s picturesque Ruovesi countryside. This family-run retreat offers authentic farm accommodation in lovingly restored log buildings, from converted storehouses to charming guesthouse chambers.
Surrounded by lush spruce forests and rich organic fields, guests can indulge in traditional Finnish experiences including lakeside saunas heated with wood from the farm’s own forest, homemade country breakfasts featuring organic oats grown on-site, and peaceful moments under starry skies. The farm combines centuries of history with modern comfort, creating an idyllic countryside escape perfect for relaxation and genuine cultural immersion.
Their story
Ylä-Tuuhonen Farm’s history traces back to 1568, with the current farmer Esko representing the 19th generation of his family line that has owned the farm since at least 1625. Esko took over in 1973, the same year he married Irma, whom he met at a local dance pavilion.
Tourism operations began in the 1980s when the family first opened their doors to guests. The farm remains a family-run business where Esko tends the fields and forests, Irma manages the kitchen and garden, and their daughter Maire assists with farm work. Their values center on kindness, sustainability, and equality, welcoming all guests seeking peaceful countryside moments. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- The buildings have been renovated with natural materials, honoring traditional styles while supporting healthy, long-lasting structures.
- Maintained across generations, the farm now offers updated traditional chambers with modern amenities.
- Accommodations include converted log cabins, restored guesthouse chambers, and the renovated Makasiini granary.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The farm is heated with woodchips from their own forest.
- All saunas are heated with wood sourced from the farm’s own forest.
- They show respect for nature by saving energy as part of their sustainability commitment.
Pioneer in waste management
- The farm includes recycling as part of its broader sustainability approach.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- The farm actively engages in organic farming, growing primarily organic oats and rye with rotation of green fertilization fields.
- The country breakfast features organic porridge made from the farm’s own oats, homemade bread baked fresh by Irma, and homemade juices. Dinner menus utilize the farm’s own produce and ingredients from local producers, with some organic ingredients.
- The farm makes traditional dishes using kissel from garden and forest berries.
Actively protects nature and community
- The farm’s forests are FSC certified and they are members of ECEAT (European Centre for Ecological and Agricultural Tourism) Finland. They practice sustainable forestry and maintain an environmentally-managed habitat where their flock of sheep plays a vital part. The sheep can be seen right by the courtyard and contribute to the farm’s environmental management.
Most Popular Activities Near Ylä-Tuuhonen Farm
- Sauna experiences (lakeside log sauna, barrel sauna, traditional smoke sauna).
- Swimming and lake dips from private jetties.
- Rowing boat excursions on Lake Tarjanne.
- Canoeing on the lake.
- Hiking in Helvetinjärvi National Park.
- Exploring Siikaneva Mire Reserve.
- Traditional kicksledding in winter.
- Beach activities at the farm’s sandy beach.
- Visiting Serlachius Museums and art exhibitions.
- Attending local festivals and events.
- Yoga classes (yin yoga, aerial yoga, park yoga).
- Art workshops at nearby Metsämökki studio.
- Traditional dancing at local pavilions.
- Wildlife watching (farm’s flock of sheep).
- Exploring nature reserves and gorges.
- Cultural visits to local museums and churches.
- SUP board rentals .
- Tibetan singing bowl therapy.
- Steam boat trips on S/S Tarjanne.
Best Time To Visit Ylä-Tuuhonen Farm
- Summer for lakeside saunas and outdoor activities, though the farm offers accommodation and experiences year-round with winter activities like kicksledding and courtyard sauna.