Sulkava Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Sulkava with this comprehensive travel guide covering top attractions, outdoor adventures, dining, accommodations, local culture, and transportation options.


Introduction to Sulkava

Sulkava is a charming municipality located in South Savonia, in the Finnish Lakeland region of Finland. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural attractions. It’s an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

List of Places to Visit in Sulkava

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sulkava is rich in history and culture, and there are several museums and historical sites worth visiting. The Sulkava Museum is a great place to start; it showcases the unique cultural heritage of the region, including traditional clothing, tools, and handicrafts. The Old Church of Sulkava is another must-see attraction; it was built in the 17th century and is a beautiful example of traditional Finnish church architecture. Other notable historical sites in Sulkava include the Lihaympyra Museum, which displays an impressive collection of tools used in the meat industry, and the Salmi homestead, a preserved 19th century farmstead.

Natural Attractions of Sulkava: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sulkava is blessed with beautiful natural landscapes, including stunning lakes, lush forests, and rolling hills. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of ways to stay active and enjoy the scenery. One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of the area is to take a boat tour of Lake Saimaa; these tours offer breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and islands. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are several great hiking and biking trails, including the Pyhävuori nature trail, which offers stunning views of the lake. Additionally, Sulkava is a great destination for fishing, and visitors can try their luck at catching pike, salmon, or perch.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sulkava

Sulkava is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with several scenic trails winding through the region’s beautiful landscapes. One of the most popular routes is the Pyhävuori nature trail; it’s a 2.5 km path that takes visitors through the forest and up to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the lake. Another great option is the Kukonharju nature trail, which is a more challenging 7 km hike that takes visitors through the forest and along the lakeshore. For bikers, the Saimaan kierros route is a fantastic option; it’s a 270 km loop that takes visitors through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Finnish Lakeland region.

Best Things to Do in Sulkava: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking, biking, and boating, Sulkava offers several other great activities and tours. One of the most unique experiences is to visit the Sulkavan Suursoudut rowing competition, which takes place every July. This event brings together rowers from around the world to compete on Lake Saimaa, and it’s a fantastic way to experience the local culture and traditions. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the Sulkava Spa, which offers a range of wellness treatments and services, including saunas and massage therapies.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sulkava

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for Sulkava:

Day 1: Visit the Sulkava Museum and the Old Church of Sulkava. Day 2: Take a boat tour of Lake Saimaa and explore the surrounding islands. Day 3: Hike the Pyhävuori nature trail and enjoy the scenic views. Day 4: Visit the Lihaympyra Museum and the Salmi homestead. Day 5: Try your hand at fishing on the lake. Day 6: Relax and rejuvenate at the Sulkava Spa. Day 7: Attend the Sulkavan Suursoudut rowing competition and experience the local culture.

Food and Drink Scene of Sulkava

Must-Try Dishes

Sulkava is known for its traditional Finnish cuisine, which is hearty and filling. One of the must-try dishes is karjalanpiirakka, a savory pie made with rye crust and stuffed with rice or mashed potatoes. Another classic Finnish dish is kalakukko, a fish pie made with rye dough and filled with fish, bacon, and onions. For dessert, try the leipäjuusto, a squeaky cheese that’s traditionally served with cloudberry jam.

Local Beverages

Finland is known for its love of coffee, and Sulkava is no exception. The town has several cozy cafes where visitors can enjoy a cup of strong Finnish coffee. Additionally, Sulkava is home to several local microbreweries, including the Olavinkatu Brewery and the Pienimaen Brewery, which produce some of the best beers in the region.

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

Sulkava offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. For those looking for a luxurious stay, the Saimaa Gardens Villas are a fantastic option; they offer spacious, well-appointed villas with stunning lake views. For more budget-friendly options, there are several hostels and guesthouses, including the Sulkava Hostel and the Guesthouse Pihlajapuu.

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

When visiting Sulkava, be sure to pick up some traditional Finnish handicrafts and products to bring home as souvenirs. The Sulkava Museum Gift Shop offers a fantastic selection of locally made traditional clothing, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Additionally, visitors can purchase locally made honey, jams, and smoked fish products at the Sulkava Market Square.

Local Culture and Customs of Sulkava

Finns are known for their love of the outdoors, and this love is reflected in Sulkava’s unique culture and customs. Visitors can experience traditional Finnish sauna culture at the Sulkava Spa, or take part in the Sulkavan Suursoudut rowing competition and witness the passion and dedication of the local rowing community.

Best Time to Visit Sulkava

The best time to visit Sulkava is in the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny and the days are long. This is also the best time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and boating on the lake.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sulkava

Do:

  • Do try traditional Finnish dishes like karjalanpiirakka and kalakukko.
  • Do take a boat tour of Lake Saimaa and enjoy the stunning scenery.
  • Do visit the Sulkava Museum and Old Church of Sulkava to learn about the region’s rich history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t be late for a scheduled activity or event; punctuality is highly valued in Finnish culture.
  • Don’t interrupt someone who is speaking; it’s important to wait for your turn to speak.
  • Don’t forget to remove your shoes indoors; it’s a common custom in Finland to remove shoes before entering someone’s home.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sulkava

Sulkava is a safe and peaceful destination, but visitors should still take basic safety precautions, like locking their doors at night and keeping valuables out of sight. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with outdoor activities, like hiking and boating, and to take necessary safety precautions.

Health in Sulkava

Finland has a high standard of healthcare, and visitors can access medical care easily if needed. It’s still important to take necessary precautions to stay healthy while traveling, like washing hands frequently and staying hydrated.

Getting to Sulkava: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sulkava is easily accessible by several transportation options. The nearest airport is Savonlinna Airport, which is approximately 50 km away. Additionally, there are several bus stations near Sulkava, including the Savonlinna Bus Station, which offers several daily connections to Sulkava. Visitors can also choose to rent a car and explore the region at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Sulkava

Sulkava is a small town, and many of the top attractions and activities are within walking distance of each other. For those who prefer to travel by car, there are several rental car options available in town. Additionally, bicycles can be rented from several locations in town, making it easy to explore the beautiful natural landscapes of the region.

Where to Go Next from Sulkava: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sulkava is located in the heart of the Finnish Lakeland region, and there are several nearby destinations worth visiting. One popular option is Savonlinna, a beautiful lakeside town known for its medieval Olavinlinna Castle. Another great option is Punkaharju, a scenic nature reserve with several great hiking and biking trails.

Conclusion

Sulkava is a hidden gem in the Finnish Lakeland region, offering stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique cultural attractions. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Sulkava has something to offer everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty and charm of this charming Finnish town.