On 3 June 2026, SYS-LIFE fellows gathered for a summer retreat in the scenic surroundings of Mathildedal and Teijo National Park. The event brought together 12 SYS-LIFE fellows, accompanied by six family members, as well as the programme director and coordinator. The group included young children aged 4–8, creating a relaxed and family-friendly atmosphere.
The day began with a hike around Lake Matildanjärvi, enjoyed in beautiful weather. Thanks to a well-timed break at a wilderness shelter, participants were able to complete the full loop comfortably. A delicious open-fire lunch featuring fish soup, vegetable soup, and traditional archipelago bread was served during the hike.
In the afternoon, the group gathered for coffee at Café Mathildedal before joining a guided tour of the historic ironworks village. The tour provided fascinating insights into the area’s industrial past and its transformation into a popular destination, now attracting around 150,000 visitors annually.
The retreat offered a valuable opportunity for fellows and their families to connect, explore nature, and learn about local history in an informal setting.