Development Projects
Lehtiniemi Guesthouse & Caravan – Year-Round Nature and Wellbeing Services
The project is implemented 1 June 2025 – 31 May 2027, co-funded by the European Union’s Just Transition Fund (JTF), administered by the Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment for North Ostrobothnia (ELY).
Objectives and Development Focus
The aim of the project is to create a cohesive and high-quality service experience that is available throughout the year. Lehtiniemi will be shaped into a place where accommodation, outdoor activities, and moments of wellbeing naturally complement one another. The project focuses on strengthening Posio’s reputation as a sustainable nature destination, improving visitor comfort, and offering travellers meaningful ways to experience the surrounding landscape. At the same time, it supports long-term employment and helps establish year-round operations in the region.
Measures and Actions
As the project moves forward, Lehtiniemi will be improved in ways that enhance both the surroundings and the visitor experience. New nature-based services will be introduced, such as gentle trails, sensory paths, guided moments in nature and year-round lakeside experiences. The area will be refined to better support wellbeing-focused travel, and Lehtiniemi’s online visibility will be strengthened to make it easier to discover and book. Once completed, the project will leave clear, lasting improvements that reflect the calm and beauty of Posio’s landscape.
Long-Term Impact
Beyond the project period, Lehtiniemi is envisioned to become a lasting example of calm, responsible, and nature-oriented tourism in Finnish Lapland. The improvements made during the project will allow guests to experience Posio’s landscape in new and meaningful ways, whether through quiet moments by the water, gentle outdoor activities, or stays that encourage slowing down and reconnecting with the natural world. Lehtiniemi will continue to serve travellers throughout the seasons while supporting local livelihoods and contributing to Posio’s reputation as a destination where nature, wellbeing, and sustainability guide everything we offer.
Funding Information
The project is supported by both development and investment funding. The approved development costs amount to €49,542 and the approved investment costs to €440,511, resulting in a total project budget of €490,053.
The European Union, through the Just Transition Fund, contributes €200,973 to the project: €24,770 for development activities and €176,203 for investments. The remaining share is fully financed by Polar Lights Tours Oy.
With this support, Lehtiniemi can continue its transformation into a year-round nature and wellbeing destination that benefits visitors, the region, and the local community.
