On the frozen lake: Saving seals

On Finland’s frozen lakes, winter reveals a quiet challenge.

The Saimaa ringed seal, one of the rarest seals in the world, depends on snow to build its breeding nests. But as winters change, snowfall is no longer guaranteed. Without these shelters, survival becomes uncertain.

This is where visitors step in. At Karelia Cottages, guests are invited to take part in a simple but meaningful action: helping to build artificial snowdrifts on the ice. Guided by conservation experts, these structures provide safe spaces for seal pups to survive.

The experience feels calm and natural. Visitors spend time outdoors, learning about the lake, the species and the changing climate. But behind this simplicity lies real impact. Each action contributes directly to conservation efforts.

Tourism becomes part of the solution. Instead of adding pressure to nature, visitors actively support it. Their presence helps protect a species that depends on human care to adapt to new conditions. By linking accommodation, education and verified conservation work, Karelia Cottages enables visitors to leave Lake Saimaa in a measurably better condition than they found it, while creating a deeper, more purposeful travel experience.