Lake Saimaa Region
Lake Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland, is a breathtaking labyrinth of waterways shaped by the ice age over 10,000 years ago. Its coastline of about 15,000 kilometres is one of the longest lake shorelines in the world, and its 15,000 islands invite nature lovers all year round. In the heart of Eastern Finland, the region around Lake Saimaa offers you a perfect mix of cultural heritage, local food culture and a very unique nature. You might even have the chance to spot the rare and endangered Saimaa ringed seal here, a unique species found nowhere else in the world.
Meet The ‘Norppa’
Nestled in the heart of Lake Saimaa lives one of the world’s rarest seals – the Saimaa Ringed Seal (Saimaannorppa). This unique, endangered species has called these waters home for thousands of years. Spotting one of these gentle creatures is a rare privilege, best experienced through guided eco-tours that prioritize their protection. The best time to see the Saimaa Ringed Seal is in late spring and early summer when they bask on the rocks after the ice has melted. As you explore, learn about conservation efforts that ensure the survival of this irreplaceable symbol of Saimaa’s pristine beauty.
Come and meet me:
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Sense the Heritage
The shores of Lake Saimaa are home to several historic castles and fortresses. Olavinlinna Castle in Savonlinna, a 15th-century stone fortress, is famous for its opera festival and guided tours. Kärnäkoski Fortress in Savitaipale built as early as 1793 as part of a defence line and its walls offer a nice view of Lake Saimaa. Lappeenranta’s Fortress, the city’s oldest district, offers a glimpse into history with its cobblestone streets, museums, and cafés housed in beautiful old buildings. Nearby, a unique attraction draws visitors each summer: Finlands largest sandcastle.
Top Highlights
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Mökki Culture around Saimaa
There’s nothing quite like spending time at a lakeside cottage in the Lake Saimaa region. For many Finns, the mökki isn’t just a holiday home—it’s a way of life. It’s where families gather, where time slows down, and where nature does its magic. Mornings start with a quiet coffee on the pier, days are spent swimming, fishing, or just enjoying the fresh air, and evenings end with a sauna and a dip in the lake. It’s simple, it’s peaceful, and it’s something you have to experience for yourself.
Tips for Enjoying Finnish Cottage Life ↗Nature Sights and Wonders
National Parks around Lake Saimaa
It is well known around the world that Finns are the happiest people on earth, and one significant reason for that is undoubtedly our surrounding nature. There are 27 official national landscapes in Finland and 4 of them are in the Lake Saimaa region. Olavinlinna and Pihlajavesi, Punkaharju, Imatrankoski and Heinävesi route. Adding to the region’s natural wonders is the Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark, which showcases the area’s unique geological heritage, including ancient rock formations and glacial landscapes. Overall, Finland has 41 National Parks, including the unique water National Parks of Linnansaari and Kolovesi in Savonlinna region, and Repovesi National Park on a border of Kouvola and Mäntyharju.
Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark
Uncover the natural wonders of the Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark, where ancient ridges, glacial formations, and serene waterways create a landscape like no other. Dive into a journey through time as you hike through geological marvels, paddle across shimmering lakes, or cycle along scenic routes. Every corner of this geopark tells a story, connecting you with the timeless beauty and heritage of Finland’s Lake Saimaa region.
More about UNESCO heritage in Lakeland Finland ↗Top Highlights
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Taste Saimaa – Pure, sustainable and authentic flavors
With its pure waters and rich soil, our region produces exceptionally high-quality food. The lakes teem with fish, particularly the beloved local delicacy ‘Muikku‘ (vendace) – a small whitefish that perfectly captures the taste of Saimaa. The forests offer a rich variety of mushrooms and berries, depending on the season. To truly experience Saimaa’s gastronomy, visitors must taste these local specialties right here, where the connection between food and place is at its most authentic. D.O. Saimaa is a Regional destination of origin label, ensuring the origin, quality, and traditional production methods of products from the Saimaa region. In 2024, the Saima region was also selected as one of the European regions of Gastronomy
Taste Saimaa ↗5 Cities around Lake Saimaa
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Imatra is famous for the Imatrankoski rapids, one of Finland’s oldest tourist attractions. The surrounding Crown Park Kruununpuisto and the The Scandic Imatran Valtionhotelli are the city’s most well-known landmarks. The Vuoksi waterway offers various activities year-round, and the city boasts excellent outdoor and sports facilities.
Get to know Imatra ↗ -
Lappeenranta is a vibrant university and harbor city located on the southern shore of Lake Saimaa. It is known for the historical Lappeenranta Fort- ress, which offers stunning views of the city and the lake. Karelian culture is strongly present here, and the city boasts excellent shopping opportunities, cultural events, and delicious local treats.
Get to know Lappeenranta ↗ -
Mikkeli is a bustling city on the northwest shore of Saimaa, known for historical sites. Mikkeli’s diverse cultural heritage includes memories of military history. The Muisti Centre of War and Peace, the Headquarters Museum, and the Infantry Museum together form a unique ensemble. The city hosts various events, including the Mikkeli Music Festival. The Mikkeli region features beautiful manor houses, great local cuisine, and stunning natural sites like the Astuvansalmi rock paintings and the scenic Neitvuori hill.
Get to know Mikkeli ↗ -
Savonlinna is known for its 550 years old medieval Olavinlinna Castle, which hosts the annual Savonlinna Opera Festival. The city offers stunning scene- ry and boating opportunities. Nearby, you can find the world’s largest wooden church in Kerimäki, the national landscape of Punkaharju ridge, and the canal village of Oravi with its various possibilities for outdoor experiences.
Get to know Savonlinna ↗ -
Varkaus is an industrial city known for its history in the wood industry and its beautiful lake scenery. The city features several museums and cultural sites, such as the Konsti Museum. Varkaus also boasts significant archi– tecture by Alvar Aalto, like Kinkamon Aalto, which is open to the public with its general sauna shifts all year round.
Get to know Varkaus ↗
Event Highlights
Discover the cultural heartbeat of the Lake Saimaa region through its famous events. From the thrilling Imatranajo motorcycle races to the enchanting Savonlinna Opera Festival and the elegant Mikkeli Music Festival, these regions offer unforgettable experiences blending tradition, music, and adrenaline. Whether you seek historic charm or modern excitement, there’s something for everyone!
For High Speed Reveries
Imatranajo is a famous motorcycle road race in Imatra, Finland, held on a scenic street circuit by the Vuoksi River. Established in 1962, it’s now part of the International Road Racing Championship.
Read moreFor Opera Enthusiasts
The Savonlinna Opera Festival is a world-renowned summer event held in Finland’s medieval Olavinlinna Castle, offering great opera performances with the scenic charm of lakeside Savonlinna.
Read moreFor Classical Music Lovers
The Mikkeli Music Festival is a captivating summer celebration of classical music, bringing together world-renowned Finnish and international artists in the picturesque town of Mikkeli.
Read more