North Savonia Travel Guide (Finnish Lakeland/Finland/Nordic countries/Europe)

Introduction to North Savonia
List of Places to Visit in North Savonia
- Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Natural Attractions of North Savonia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Hiking/Biking Routes of North Savonia
Best Things to Do in North Savonia: Activities and Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for North Savonia
Food and Drink Scene of North Savonia
- Must-Try Dishes
- Local Beverages
Where to Stay in North Savonia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
What to Buy in North Savonia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Local Culture and Customs of North Savonia
Best Time to Visit North Savonia
Do’s and Don’ts of North Savonia
- Do:
- Don’t:
Safety and Health
- Safety in North Savonia
- Health in North Savonia
Getting to North Savonia: Transportation Options and Logistics
How to Get Around in North Savonia
Where to Go Next from North Savonia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Conclusion

Introduction to North Savonia

North Savonia is a province in Finnish Lakeland, located in central Finland. This beautiful region is famous for its lakes, forests, and charming small towns that offer tourists an opportunity to relax and enjoy scenic views.

North Savonia has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its museums, historical sites, and traditions. Moreover, it boasts a wide range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and skiing, making it an ideal place for nature enthusiasts.

If you are planning to visit Finland, you should add North Savonia to your itinerary and explore its unique attractions.

List of Places to Visit in North Savonia

North Savonia has many interesting and beautiful places to explore. Here are some of the must-visit attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Rautalampi Museum: This museum showcases the cultural heritage of Rautalampi, a municipality in North Savonia. You can explore the local history, see traditional tools and utensils, and learn about the life of the people in the region.
Kuopio Museum: Kuopio Museum offers a comprehensive exhibition on the history and culture of North Savonia. You can see artifacts, photos, and documents related to the region’s history and traditions.
Olavinlinna Castle: This medieval castle is located in the city of Savonlinna and was built in the 15th century. You can take a guided tour and learn about the castle’s history and architecture.

Natural Attractions of North Savonia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Linnansaari National Park: Linnansaari National Park is a popular destination for nature lovers. It consists of several islands and offers opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and kayaking. You can also see the endangered Saimaa ringed seal in its natural habitat.
Puijo Tower: Puijo Tower is a popular observation tower that provides breathtaking views of Kuopio and the surrounding area. You can take a cable car to reach the tower and enjoy the panoramic views.
Kolovesi National Park: Kolovesi National Park is a wilderness area that offers visitors a chance to explore the nature of North Savonia. You can hike through the forests, swim in the crystal-clear lakes, and spot wildlife like bear, lynx, and wolves.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Savonia

North Savonia is an excellent destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the most popular routes include:

Kolovesi Canoe Route: This 40-kilometer canoe route takes you through Kolovesi National Park, offering beautiful scenery and an opportunity to observe the wildlife.
Puijo Ridge Trail: This trail is a 7-kilometer loop that takes you through the forests and hills of Puijo, offering beautiful views of Kuopio and the surrounding area.
Tahko Hiking Trail: This 17-kilometer trail takes you through the Tahko area, offering beautiful views of lakes and forests.

Best Things to Do in North Savonia: Activities and Tours

North Savonia offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors. Some of the best things to do include:

Saimaa Ringed Seal Tours: You can take a boat tour to see the endangered Saimaa ringed seal in its natural habitat.
Husky Sledding Tours: You can go on a husky sledding tour and experience the thrill of riding a sled pulled by these adorable dogs.
Northern Lights Tours: If you visit North Savonia in winter, you can go on a tour to observe the stunning Northern Lights.

Week-Long Itinerary for North Savonia

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for North Savonia:

Day	Activity
1	Explore Kuopio Museum and Puijo Tower
2	Canoeing at Kolovesi National Park
3	Visit Olavinlinna Castle and Savonlinna Market
4	Hiking at Tahko Hiking Trail
5	Visit Linnansaari National Park and Saimaa Seal Museum
6	Husky Sledding Tour in the Forest
7	Northern Lights Tour

Food and Drink Scene of North Savonia

North Savonia offers a unique food and drink scene that is influenced by its location and cultural heritage. Some of the must-try dishes and beverages include:

Must-Try Dishes

Karjalanpiirakka: This is a traditional pastry filled with rice pudding or mashed potatoes. It is a typical snack or breakfast food in North Savonia.
Kalakukko: This is a fish-filled pastry that is baked in a rye crust. It is a popular dish in the region and is eaten as a lunch or snack.
Sahti: Sahti is a traditional Finnish beer that is made from rye and juniper berries. It has a sweet and fruity taste and is often served with smoked fish or sausages.

Local Beverages

Mustikkamehu: Mustikkamehu is a blueberry juice that is made from fresh berries. It is a refreshing and healthy drink that is popular in North Savonia.
Karelian Hot Pot Coffee: This coffee is brewed with cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. It has a rich and spicy flavor and is often served with Karjalanpiirakka.

Where to Stay in North Savonia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

North Savonia has a variety of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay:

Original Sokos Hotel Puijonsarvi: This hotel is located in the heart of Kuopio and offers comfortable rooms and amenities.
Hostel Hermanni: This hostel is located in the city center of Savonlinna and offers affordable accommodation for budget travelers.
Järvisydän: This eco-friendly resort is located near Linnansaari National Park and offers cottages and rooms with beautiful lake views.

What to Buy in North Savonia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring home some unique souvenirs and local products from North Savonia, here are some suggestions:

Lakka: Lakka is a wild berry that grows in North Savonia. You can buy lakka products such as jam, liquor, or candy as a souvenir.
Handicrafts: North Savonia is known for its traditional handicrafts, such as knitted products, weaving, and pottery. You can find them in local shops and markets.
Saimaa Ringed Seal Merchandise: You can buy merchandise related to the endangered Saimaa ringed seal, such as t-shirts, pins, or stuffed animals. The proceeds go to support conservation efforts for the species.

Local Culture and Customs of North Savonia

North Savonia has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its customs, traditions, and festivities. Some of the notable cultural events include:

Savonlinna Opera Festival: This annual festival takes place in July and features opera performances in the Olavinlinna Castle.
Väinölänniemi Midsummer Festival: This festival takes place in June and celebrates the Finnish midsummer with live music, food, and drinks.
Kuopio Wine Festival: This festival takes place in August and features wine tasting and food events at various locations in Kuopio.

Best Time to Visit North Savonia

The best time to visit North Savonia depends on your interests and preferences. If you want to enjoy the outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking, the best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is mild and pleasant.

If you want to experience the winter activities, such as skiing and husky sledding, the best time to visit is from December to March when the region is covered in snow.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Savonia

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting North Savonia:

Do:

Respect the local customs and traditions.
Dress appropriately for the weather and activities.
Try the local food and drink.

Don’t:

Leave trash or litter in the nature.
Disturb the wildlife or their habitats.
Ignore the safety signs and guidelines in the national parks and other attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in North Savonia

North Savonia is a safe destination, with a low crime rate and reliable emergency services. However, travelers should be aware of the potential risks associated with outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and skiing, and follow the safety guidelines provided by the authorities.

Health in North Savonia

Finland has a high standard of healthcare, and North Savonia has several hospitals and clinics that offer medical services. However, travelers should have comprehensive health insurance that covers emergency medical care and repatriation.

Getting to North Savonia: Transportation Options and Logistics

North Savonia is well connected to other parts of Finland, and there are several transportation options available.

Airports Near North Savonia

Kuopio Airport: This airport is located in Siilinjärvi, about 14 kilometers from Kuopio city center. It offers flights to Helsinki and other destinations in Finland.
Savonlinna Airport: This airport is located in the city of Savonlinna and offers mostly seasonal flights to Helsinki.

Bus Stations Near North Savonia

Kuopio Bus Station: This bus station is located in the city center of Kuopio and offers connections to other cities in Finland.
Savonlinna Bus Station: This bus station is located in the city center of Savonlinna and offers connections to several destinations in Finland.

Other Options

Trains: There are several train connections to North Savonia, with Kuopio and Varkaus being the main train stations in the region.
Car Rental: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore North Savonia and the Finnish Lakeland region.

How to Get Around in North Savonia

North Savonia is a vast region, and there are several transportation options available to get around.

Bus: Buses are the most common mode of public transportation in North Savonia, and there are several bus companies that offer connections to different destinations.
Taxi: Taxis are available in the main cities and towns in North Savonia, and they are a convenient way to get around locally.
Bicycle: Cycling is a popular mode of transportation in North Savonia, and there are several biking routes and rental places available.

Where to Go Next from North Savonia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

North Savonia is an excellent starting point to explore the Finnish Lakeland region. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

Helsinki: The capital city of Finland is located about 400 kilometers from North Savonia and offers a variety of attractions, such as museums, parks, and cultural events.
Koli National Park: Koli National Park is located about 230 kilometers from North Savonia and offers beautiful scenery and hiking opportunities.
Tampere: Tampere is a city located about 250 kilometers from North Savonia and offers a variety of attractions, such as museums, theaters, and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

North Savonia is a beautiful region in Finnish Lakeland that offers a unique travel experience. With its rich cultural heritage, natural attractions, outdoor activities, food and drink scene, and hospitable people, North Savonia is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to explore the beauty of Finland.