HELSINKI, FINLAND

Our tour begins as we leave the harbour, travelling on to the main street, Mannerheim Street, and passing Parliament House, the National Museum, Finlandia Hall and the Opera House. At Sibelius Park we will take a short stroll to photograph the unique Sibelius Monument – constructed with 527 steel pipes.

Our tour begins as we leave the harbour, travelling on to the main street, Mannerheim Street, and passing Parliament House, the National Museum, Finlandia Hall and the Opera House. At Sibelius Park we will take a short stroll to photograph the unique Sibelius Monument – constructed with 527 steel pipes. Driving out of Helsinki through the picturesque countryside, we head for Ainola – former home of the world famous composer Jean Sibelius. Sibelius built his house in 1904, on a pine-clad hill near Lake Tuusula (approximately 30 kilometres/19 miles from the city), when he decided that “My art demands a different environment”. As we walk up to Ainola (named after his wife Aino), we will understand why this milieu attracted so many writers and painters to establish their homes here. The grave of the composer and his wife is located in the garden. After touring Sibelius’ home, we continue to nearby Aino Hall, for a short private concert performed by student musicians from the Sibelius Academy. We will receive a glass of sparkling wine. We shall then return to our ship in Helsinki.

This tour involves walking to view the Sibelius Monument (approximately 100 metres/300 feet); in Ainola (120 metres/400 feet, including a little uphill walking and some steps); and at Aino Hall (25 metres/80 feet). There will also be a walk of approximately 100-300 metres (300-1,000 feet) to embark/disembark the tour coach. Photography is not permitted inside Ainola. For information, the concert (usually two musicians, on piano and violin) will last approximately 30 minutes. Please note that the order of the itinerary is subject to change.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 SCANDINAVIA & BALTIC SEASON