Light in the Dark – Increasing resilience in rural and coastal tourism in the northern Baltic Sea Region by developing off-season experiences

Light in the Dark

Gaining Inspiration for Off-Season Tourism Development

20 May 2025

Reflections on the Pilot Trip to Finland by two Latvian SMEs. During the trip, three different tourism experiences were piloted in the Finnish archipelago, on the islands of Korpo and Houtskär and in the Kotka/ Hamina area on Rakinkotka Island.

Technical details

From 7–9 May 2025, representatives of the company Daba Laba, Loreta and Reinis Pižiki, took part in a transnational pilot trip to Finland. The SME represents the Kurzeme Planning Region in Latvia within the framework of the Interreg Baltic Sea Region project “Light in the Dark.” As part of the project’s planned activities, participating entrepreneurs were invited to test off-season tourism products developed by fellow project partners and provide their feedback and professional evaluation.

“Having actively contributed to the project and developed the product “Disconnect to Reconnect,” we were especially interested in exploring how similar ideas are implemented in different contexts and identifying elements we could adapt or improve within our own offer.” said Loreta

During the trip, three different tourism products were piloted in various parts of Finland: “Archipelago Sea Forest Bathing and Sauna Experience” (Naawa Nature, Korpo)

This experience offered an opportunity to step away from daily routines and immerse ourselves in the quiet presence of nature. The forest bathing and traditional sauna ritual created a sense of balance and calm. We especially appreciated the small group approach and attention to detail – such as the use of medicinal herbs for foot baths and the fireside tea moments for informal sharing. The experience provided valuable input for enhancing our own wellness and forest-based activities, including practical insights into catering in natural settings.

“Authentic Finnish Seaside Sauna Experience with Accommodation” (Hotel Hyppeis, Houtskari)

This stay offered a complete package of high-quality coastal tourism in a remote area. From the carefully designed interior to the seaside sauna ritual, every detail was well considered. We were particularly inspired by how such a high-level offer functions successfully in a less-populated location. The three-course dinner featuring local ingredients, peaceful natural surroundings, and a serene morning atmosphere all contributed to a refined guest experience.

“The Rakinkotka Island Experience in Hamina”

This day trip took us to Rakinkotka island, where Viking history, untouched nature, and sustainability are closely intertwined. The sea journey aboard a traditional wooden boat, accompanied by stories from the captain, set the tone for an engaging island experience. We enjoyed guided walks, a traditional smoke sauna, and a hearty salmon soup. The host’s long-term perspective on running a tourism business was particularly insightful, and we gained a better understanding of how dietary adjustments in catering are standard practice in Finland – something we could also adopt.

The pilot trip broadened our perspective on off-season tourism development and offered hands-on examples for improving product quality. The experiences we explored clearly show that successful, sustainable tourism services can be developed even in remote areas.

SME network

One aim of the project is to create a network of SMEs and DMOs throughout the Baltic Sea Region who focus on seasonality.

See more photos and videos on the original posting.

Prepared by:
Loreta Pižika and Reinis Pižiks
SIA “Daba Laba”
www.dabalaba.lv