Pertunmaa Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, accommodations, and local culture in the beautiful town of Pertunmaa, Finland.


Introduction to Pertunmaa

Pertunmaa is a small town located in the picturesque South Savonia region of Finland. Known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Pertunmaa is a must-visit destination for travelers who are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and indulge in the beauty of nature.

List of Places to Visit in Pertunmaa

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pertunmaa Church: A beautiful wooden church built in the 18th century that is still active today.
  • Mikkeli Museum: Located in the nearby city of Mikkeli, this museum offers an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the South Savonia region.
  • Lyytikkälä Local Museum: This museum provides an immersive experience of the local customs and traditions of Pertunmaa.

Natural Attractions of Pertunmaa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Päijänne National Park: A stunning natural park that offers remarkable hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife sightings.
  • Kallioniemi Nature Reserve: A beautiful coastal area that offers scenic views, rare bird sightings, and various water activities.
  • Ruotsalon Kansallispuistorata: A stunning hiking trail that leads to breathtaking viewpoints and lush forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pertunmaa

  • Päijänne-Ilvesreitti trail: This 45km route is perfect for experienced hikers and offers beautiful views of forests, lakes, and hills.
  • Kaislakosken ympäristön retkeilyreitti: A 2km trail that leads to the stunning Kaislakoski waterfall.
  • Pertunmaa Outdoor Route: A 30km route that is ideal for mountain bikers and offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Pertunmaa: Activities and Tours

  • Fishing: With the abundance of lakes in the region, fishing is a popular activity in Pertunmaa.
  • Kayaking/Canoeing: Take a peaceful trip on one of the many beautiful lakes in the region.
  • Horseback Riding: Experience the beautiful landscapes of Pertunmaa on horseback.
  • A Guided Cultural Tour: Learn more about the rich heritage and customs of the town with a knowledgeable guide.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pertunmaa

Day Activity
Monday Visit Päijänne National Park and hike the Ilvesreitti trail
Tuesday Take a kayaking tour of the local lakes
Wednesday Visit the Lyytikkälä Local Museum
Thursday Take a horseback riding tour of the surrounding forests
Friday Go fishing on one of the beautiful lakes in the region
Saturday Take a guided cultural tour of Pertunmaa
Sunday Visit the Kallioniemi Nature Reserve

Food and Drink Scene of Pertunmaa

Must-Try Dishes

  • Karelian Pasty: A traditional pastry made with rye flour and filled with potatoes, carrots, and rice.
  • Muikku: Fried vendace, a type of freshwater whitefish, is a staple dish in the region.
  • Kalakukko: A Finnish pastry that is filled with fish and pork and baked into a delicious bread.

Local Beverages

  • Salmiakki Koskenkorva: A strong Finnish vodka that is flavored with salmiakki, a type of salty licorice.
  • Craft Beer: The craft beer scene in Pertunmaa is thriving, with many local breweries offering unique and delicious beers.
  • Berry Juices: The town is famous for its delicious berry juices, made with locally grown lingonberries, bilberries, and raspberries.

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

  • Hotel Torni: A cozy hotel in the center of town that features beautiful lake views and a sauna.
  • PajarinHovi: A rustic and charming guesthouse that provides a peaceful environment for travelers.
  • Hostel Väinämöisen Tupa: A budget-friendly option that is located near the town center and offers basic accommodations.

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

  • Handcrafted Wooden Items: Pertunmaa is well-known for its skilled craftsmen who create beautiful wooden items such as bowls, boxes, and toys.
  • Local Foods and Beverages: Take home some of the delicious local specialties such as berry jams and salmiakki candies.
  • Handwoven Textiles: The region is known for its high-quality wool and linen textiles that are finely handcrafted by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Pertunmaa

Pertunmaa is known for preserving its rich cultural heritage through traditional customs such as dance, music, and traditional dress. The town hosts various festivals throughout the year that showcase these customs, such as the Midsummer Festival and the Harvest Festival. It is common to greet locals with a friendly “hei,” and it is recommended to dress modestly when visiting the local churches.

Best Time to Visit Pertunmaa

The best time to visit Pertunmaa is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities are in full swing. The winter season in the region is cold and dark, but it presents an excellent opportunity to witness the Northern Lights.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pertunmaa

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress properly when visiting local churches and other cultural sites.
  • Take a dip in the refreshing lakes during summer.

Don’t:

  • Forget to pack appropriate outdoor gear and equipment.
  • Litter in the beautiful natural areas of Pertunmaa.
  • Ignore the traditional dance and music events.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pertunmaa

Pertunmaa is considered a safe travel destination with a low crime rate. However, travelers are advised to take standard precautions such as keeping valuable belongings secure and being aware of potential pickpocketing in crowded areas.

Health in Pertunmaa

Finland has an efficient healthcare system, and travelers can access medical treatment either through public or private hospitals. It is recommended to have adequate health insurance before traveling to Finland, as healthcare costs can be expensive.

Getting to Pertunmaa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pertunmaa

The nearest airport to Pertunmaa is Helsinki Airport, which is about a two and a half hour drive from the town.

Bus Stations Near Pertunmaa

The nearest major bus station is located in Mikkeli, which is a 20-minute drive from Pertunmaa. Local buses are also available, connecting the town with nearby areas.

Other Options

Travelers can also reach Pertunmaa by train, with the nearest railway station located in Mikkeli. Renting a car is another option, as Pertunmaa is easily accessible by road, with major highways passing through the town.

How to Get Around in Pertunmaa

The best way to get around in Pertunmaa is by car or bicycle. Car rentals are available, and the roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate. Bicycles can also be rented locally, providing a refreshing and eco-friendly way to explore the town and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Pertunmaa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Savonlinna: This beautiful town is located about an hour and a half drive from Pertunmaa and offers a variety of cultural attractions, including a medieval castle and a stunning opera festival in summer.
  • Lappeenranta: A charming town located about an hour and a half drive from Pertunmaa that offers beautiful lake views and an excellent selection of restaurants and cafes.

Conclusion

Pertunmaa is an ideal destination for travelers who are looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and experience the rich culture and traditions of a Finnish town. Whether you are interested in outdoor activities, cultural festivals, or local foods and crafts, Pertunmaa has something to offer for everyone.

Pertunmaa Church. Pertunmaa Church. Shop in Kuortti Shop in Kuortti