Saimaa Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Saimaa, Finland's Lakeland region with this comprehensive guide featuring must-visit destinations, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, and transportation options.


Introduction to Saimaa

Nestled in the heart of the Finnish Lakeland, Saimaa is a breathtakingly beautiful region known for its stunning lakes, lush forests, and vibrant cultural scene. With its mix of natural beauty and historical landmarks, Saimaa has something to offer for everyone from outdoor enthusiasts to culture buffs. Whether you’re looking to explore the region’s many hiking trails, sample its famous food and drink, or learn more about Finnish history and culture, Saimaa is a destination you won’t want to miss.

List of Places to Visit in Saimaa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lappeenranta Fortress

Located in the heart of the city, Lappeenranta Fortress is a must-visit destination for history buffs. Built in the 18th century, the fortress is now home to a museum offering insights into the region’s rich military history.

Imatra Waterfall

The Imatra Waterfall, located on the Vuoksi River, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Saimaa. Visitors can view this natural wonder from several lookout points and even take a boat ride to get up close to the falls.

Olavinlinna Castle

Nestled in the heart of Savonlinna, Olavinlinna Castle is a stunning medieval fortress that dates back to the 15th century. Today, the castle is home to a museum, and visitors can explore its grounds and take in stunning views of Lake Saimaa.

Natural Attractions of Saimaa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Linnansaari National Park

Comprised of over 130 islands, Linnansaari National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers an array of activities, including hiking, canoeing, fishing, and wildlife watching.

Punkaharju Ridge

The Punkaharju Ridge is a unique and scenic landscape that’s been formed by glaciers over thousands of years. Visitors can explore the ridge on foot or by bike, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding forests and lakes.

Kolovesi National Park

Kolovesi National Park is a vast wilderness area that’s home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the endangered Saimaa Ringed Seal. Visitors can explore the park’s rugged terrain by hiking or paddling, taking in stunning views of its many lakes and forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Saimaa

The Salpalinja Trail

The Salpalinja Trail is a historic hiking trail that follows the Salpalinja defensive line built during World War II. The trail passes through rugged and scenic terrain, and visitors can explore the region’s military history while taking in stunning views of the surrounding forests and lakes.

Karelia Trail

The Karelia Trail is a popular hiking trail that runs from southern Finland all the way to the Russian border. Visitors can explore the trail on foot or by bike, taking in stunning views of the region’s forests, lakes, and historical landmarks.

Best Things to Do in Saimaa: Activities and Tours

Homestead Museum Tour

The Homestead Museum Tour takes visitors on a journey through Finnish history and culture. Visitors can explore historical homesteads, farmhouses, and other buildings, learning about rural life in the region at different periods in history.

Lappeenranta Cruises

Lappeenranta Cruises let visitors explore the beauty of Lake Saimaa while taking in stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Saimaa

Day 1 Explore Savonlinna and visit Olavinlinna Castle
Day 2 Visit Linnansaari National Park and go hiking or paddling
Day 3 Take the Salpalinja Trail and explore the region’s military history
Day 4 Visit Imatra Waterfall and take a boat ride to the falls
Day 5 Explore the Punkaharju Ridge on foot or by bike
Day 6 Visit the Homestead Museum and learn about Finnish history and culture
Day 7 Take a Lappeenranta Cruise and explore the beauty of Lake Saimaa

Food and Drink Scene of Saimaa

Must-Try Dishes

Karelian Pies

Karelian pie is a traditional Finnish dish consisting of a thin rye pastry filled with mashed potatoes, rice pudding, or carrots.

Lohikeitto (Salmon Soup)

Lohikeitto is a creamy salmon soup made with fresh salmon, potatoes, and cream.

Local Beverages

Salmiakki Koskenkorva

Salmiakki Koskenkorva is a popular Finnish liquor made from grain alcohol and salted liquorice.

Saimaa Beer

Saimaa Beer is a local craft beer that’s made using traditional Finnish brewing methods and local ingredients. It’s available in a range of flavors, including dark and light beers.

Where to Stay in Saimaa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Holiday Resort Naaranlahti

Holiday Resort Naaranlahti is a lakeside hotel located in the heart of the Saimaa region. The resort offers a range of accommodation options, including cabins, villas, and apartments.

Hostel Lappeenranta

Hostel Lappeenranta is a budget-friendly accommodation option located in the heart of the city. The hostel offers dormitory-style rooms and private rooms, and amenities include a shared kitchen, lounge, and laundry facilities.

What to Buy in Saimaa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Karelian Pastry

Karelian pastry is a staple of Finnish cuisine, and visitors can purchase this traditional dish in many bakeries and local shops throughout the Saimaa region.

Wooden Items

Finland is known for its traditional wooden items, such as cups, bowls, and utensils. Visitors can purchase these items from local artisans and craft shops throughout the Saimaa region.

Local Culture and Customs of Saimaa

The people of Saimaa are known for their warmth and hospitality, and visitors can expect to be greeted warmly everywhere they go. Finnish culture places a high value on nature and the outdoors, and visitors are encouraged to respect the region’s natural beauty and local customs.

Best Time to Visit Saimaa

The best time to visit Saimaa is during the summer months from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and many of the region’s outdoor attractions are open for visitors to explore.

Do’s and Don’ts of Saimaa

Do:

  • Respect the region’s natural beauty and local customs.
  • Try local foods and drinks.
  • Pack appropriately for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Enter private properties without permission.
  • Disturb local wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Saimaa

Saimaa is a safe destination with low levels of crime. Visitors are advised to take normal precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and avoiding isolated areas after dark.

Health in Saimaa

Finland has a high standard of healthcare, and visitors can seek medical attention at local hospitals and medical centers if needed.

Getting to Saimaa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Saimaa

The closest airport to the Saimaa region is Lappeenranta Airport, located approximately 30 kilometers from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Saimaa

There are multiple bus stations throughout the Saimaa region, including in Lappeenranta and Savonlinna.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach the Saimaa region by train or car, with good road and rail connections throughout the region.

How to Get Around in Saimaa

Visitors can get around the Saimaa region by bus, bike, or car. Bikes can be rented from local shops, and car rental counters are available at major transportation hubs, such as airports and train/bus stations.

Where to Go Next from Saimaa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Helsinki

Helsinki, the capital city of Finland, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan destination located south of the Saimaa region. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums, galleries, and historical landmarks, as well as enjoy its thriving food and drink scene.

Tallinn

The Estonian capital of Tallinn is an enchanting destination located across the Gulf of Finland. Visitors can explore the city’s winding cobbled streets, historic landmarks, and charming cafes and restaurants.

Conclusion

Saimaa is a destination that offers something for everyone, with its stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, and vibrant food and drink scene. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a chance to relax and unwind, Saimaa is a destination that won’t disappoint.

Saimaa highlighted on a satellite photo, Gulf of Finland at the bottom, Lake Ladoga on the right. The black line is the Russo-Finnish border. Saimaa highlighted on a satellite photo, Gulf of Finland at the bottom, Lake Ladoga on the right. The black line is the Russo-Finnish border. Saimaa from Joutseno Saimaa from Joutseno A small excursion harbour in Savonlinna A small excursion harbour in Savonlinna View from the hill fort of Linnansaari View from the hill fort of Linnansaari