Pieksämäki Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Pieksämäki, a hidden gem in Finnish Lakeland.


Introduction to Pieksämäki

Nestled in Finnish Lakeland, Pieksämäki is a picturesque town in South Savonia, Finland. Its idyllic landscapes, serene lakes, and rich cultural heritage make it a perfect place to explore the Finnish way of life. Despite being off the beaten path, Pieksämäki is a hidden gem worth discovering.

List of Places to Visit in Pieksämäki

If you’re planning a trip to Pieksämäki, make sure to include the following places in your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pieksämäki Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of Pieksämäki through a variety of exhibitions and artifacts. It’s a great place to learn about the town’s past and present.
  • Oravi Canal: Located in the heart of Pieksämäki, Oravi Canal is a historic landmark and an important part of the town’s trading history. A visit here offers a glimpse of the canal’s engineering and the surrounding natural beauty.
  • Orthodox Church of St. Olaf: A unique cultural experience, this church is a beautiful example of Karelian Orthodox architecture. Its intricate wooden carvings and paintings are worth marveling at.

Natural Attractions of Pieksämäki: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kolovesi National Park: Home to rugged cliffs, serene lakes, and forests, Kolovesi National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Visitors can hike, kayak, or canoe through the park’s stunning landscapes.
  • Hirvensalmi Ridge: A geological wonder, the Hirvensalmi Ridge is a natural formation that provides incredible views of the surroundings. The ridge can be explored by hiking or biking.
  • Lake Kermanjärvi: Pieksämäki is home to many lakes, but Lake Kermanjärvi stands out for its natural beauty and pristine waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, or fishing here.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pieksämäki

Pieksämäki is a paradise for hikers and bikers. Some of the popular trails in the area include the Kolovesi Nature Trail, the Oravi Canal route, and the Hirvensalmi Ridge trail. These routes offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Pieksämäki: Activities and Tours

Pieksämäki offers a range of activities to suit every traveler’s interests. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Explore the lakes and rivers around Pieksämäki by renting a kayak or canoe.
  • Fishing: Finland is known for its fantastic fishing, and Pieksämäki is no exception. Visitors can try their hand at catching perch, pike, and other native fish.
  • Skiing: During the winter months, the town turns into a winter wonderland, and visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding at the local ski resort.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pieksämäki

If you’re planning on spending a week in Pieksämäki, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most out of your trip:

  • Day 1: Visit Pieksämäki Museum, followed by a hike around Hirvensalmi Ridge.
  • Day 2: Explore Kolovesi National Park by canoe or kayak.
  • Day 3: Take a guided tour of Oravi Canal, followed by a visit to the Orthodox Church of St. Olaf.
  • Day 4: Enjoy a day of fishing on Lake Kermanjärvi.
  • Day 5: Rent a bike and explore the local area, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way.
  • Day 6: Ski at the local ski resort or take a day trip to nearby Mikkeli.
  • Day 7: Relax and take in the beauty of the town before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Pieksämäki

Finnish cuisine is known for its simplicity and use of fresh, local ingredients. Pieksämäki has a variety of dining options to suit every taste. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kalakukko: A traditional Finnish pastry, Kalakukko is made with rye dough and filled with fish and pork.
  • Karjalanpaisti: A hearty stew made with beef or pork, carrots, potatoes, and other vegetables.
  • Vispipuuro: A dessert made with lingonberries and wheat semolina.

Local Beverages

  • Lonkero: A popular Finnish drink made with grapefruit soda and gin.
  • Sahti: A traditional Finnish beer made with juniper berries and malt.

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

Pieksämäki has a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel or a cozy guesthouse, there’s something for everyone. Here are some top picks:

  • Sokos Hotel Vaakuna Pieksämäki: This modern hotel offers spacious rooms and a central location.
  • Lomakeskus Revontuli: A lakeside resort with private cabins and plenty of outdoor activities.
  • Majatalo Kartanohotelli Satulinna: An elegant guesthouse with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

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

Pieksämäki is known for its craft tradition, and visitors can find a range of local products to take home as souvenirs. Some popular items include:

  • Woven Rugs: Pieksämäki is famous for its high-quality rugs, many of which are still made using traditional methods.
  • Handmade Pottery: Visitors can find beautiful handcrafted pottery in many of the local shops and markets.
  • Juniper Berry Products: Pieksämäki is surrounded by forests filled with juniper berries, and visitors can find a variety of products made from this fragrant plant, including soap, candles, and even gin.

Local Culture and Customs of Pieksämäki

Finnish culture is unique and worth experiencing first-hand. When visiting Pieksämäki, keep in mind the following customs:

  • Sauna: Sauna is an essential part of Finnish culture, and visitors should experience it at least once during their stay.
  • Respect for Nature: Finland is known for its stunning natural landscapes, and visitors should respect the environment and adhere to the “Everyman’s Right” principle, which allows people to enjoy nature responsibly.
  • Reserved Demeanor: Finns tend to be reserved and often value personal space. Visitors should avoid crowding or being too loud in public spaces.

Best Time to Visit Pieksämäki

Pieksämäki is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. For outdoor enthusiasts, summer is the ideal time to explore the national parks and lakes. Winter, on the other hand, offers a chance to enjoy winter sports and witness the Northern Lights.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pieksämäki

To ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip to Pieksämäki, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try Finnish cuisine and local beverages.
  • Respect the environment and adhere to the “Everyman’s Right” principle.
  • Experience sauna at least once.

Don’t:

  • Crowd or be too loud in public spaces.
  • Ignore local customs and traditions.
  • Underestimate the weather, especially during the winter months.

Safety and Health

Pieksämäki is a safe destination for travelers, but it’s important to be aware of safety and health issues when visiting any foreign country.

Safety in Pieksämäki

  • Crime rates are low in Pieksämäki, but visitors should still be mindful of their belongings and avoid flashing valuables in public.

Health in Pieksämäki

  • Tap water in Pieksämäki is safe to drink, but visitors should carry a water bottle and stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.
  • Visitors should also be aware of ticks and the risk of Lyme disease when hiking through wooded areas.

Getting to Pieksämäki: Transportation Options and Logistics

Pieksämäki is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Here are some options to consider:

Airports Near Pieksämäki

  • Lappeenranta International Airport: Located about 85 miles from Pieksämäki, this airport offers domestic and international flights.
  • Kuopio Airport: About 68 miles from Pieksämäki, Kuopio airport offers flights to major Finnish cities.

Bus Stations Near Pieksämäki

  • Pieksämäki bus station: Located in the town center, this bus station has connections to major Finnish cities.
  • Mikkeli bus station: About 30 miles from Pieksämäki, Mikkeli bus station offers connections to Helsinki and other major cities.

Other Options

  • Visitors can also reach Pieksämäki by car or train. The town has its own train station, with connections to major Finnish cities like Helsinki and Kuopio.

How to Get Around in Pieksämäki

Pieksämäki is a small town and can be explored on foot, but visitors may want to rent a bike or car to get around more efficiently. Local buses and taxis are also available.

Where to Go Next from Pieksämäki: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Pieksämäki is an excellent base for exploring nearby destinations in Finnish Lakeland. Here are some ideas for day trips and excursions:

  • Savonlinna: About 80 miles from Pieksämäki, Savonlinna is a picturesque town known for its medieval castle and stunning lake views.
  • Lappeenranta: Located about 85 miles from Pieksämäki, Lappeenranta is a vibrant university town with plenty of cultural attractions and shopping opportunities.
  • Helsinki: The Finnish capital is about 160 miles from Pieksämäki and can be reached by train or car. Helsinki offers a wide range of cultural and historical experiences, as well as excellent shopping and dining options.

Conclusion

Pieksämäki may not be on every traveler’s radar, but its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality make it a destination worth visiting. With its stunning national parks, historic landmarks, and excellent food and drink scene, Pieksämäki offers a glimpse of Finland’s unique charm and character.

Scenic central Pieksämäki Scenic central Pieksämäki Pieksänjärvi, by the town centre Pieksänjärvi, by the town centre Old church. Old church. Freshly fried ''muikku'' in Pieksämäki Freshly fried ''muikku'' in Pieksämäki