In the heart of Finnish Lakeland lies Lake Saimaa, a labyrinth of waterways, islands, and forests that has shaped the lives and landscapes of South Savo and South Karelia for millennia. This region invites you to explore its serene beauty through its national parks and the Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark, each offering unique experiences throughout the year.
Linnansaari National Park
Established in 1956, Linnansaari National Park encompasses a vast archipelago in the middle of Lake Haukivesi, part of the greater Saimaa lake system. The park’s 130 islands and numerous islets provide a haven for the endangered Saimaa ringed seal and a rich variety of birdlife, including ospreys and black-throated divers.
Visitors can explore marked trails on the main island, where traditional slash-and-burn agriculture is still practiced to maintain the cultural landscape. During summer, boat services operate from nearby towns like Rantasalmi and Oravi, making the park accessible for day trips or overnight stays in designated camping areas.
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Kolovesi National Park
Established in 1990, Kolovesi National Park is a stunning natural area located in Eastern Finland, in the Saimaa lake region. The park is famous for its steep, rugged cliffs, labyrinthine waterways, and some of the best-preserved prehistoric rock paintings in the country, dating back over 5,000 years. These ancient artworks, such as those at Ukonvuori, are believed to be created by Stone Age hunter-gatherers and depict elk, humans, and abstract symbols.
Kolovesi’s peaceful, narrow waterways make it a paradise for canoeing and kayaking, as most of the park is only accessible by water. The absence of motorboats, restricted to protect the endangered Saimaa ringed seal (Pusa hispida saimensis), ensures a serene environment where visitors can paddle in near silence, surrounded by pristine nature.
The park’s hiking trails, such as the Nahkiaissalo Trail (approx. 3.3 km), allow visitors to explore old-growth forests and reach scenic cliffs and viewpoints. Along the way, you may spot forest birds, rare lichens, and signs of beavers. The area’s geological features, shaped by the Ice Age, include ancient bedrock outcrops and glacial erratics.
Kolovesi also plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, particularly for the Saimaa ringed seal, one of the rarest seals in the world with fewer than 450 individuals remaining. The seal relies on the quiet, clean waters of the park for nesting and feeding.
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Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark
The Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark, designated in 2021, encompasses areas in both South Savo and South Karelia, highlighting the region’s unique geological and cultural features. The geopark tells the story of Lake Saimaa’s formation, from ancient seabeds to the present-day labyrinth of lakes and islands.
Visitors can explore over 40 geosites, including the Astuvansalmi rock paintings, Neitvuori Hill, and the iconic Punkaharju Ridge. These sites offer opportunities for hiking, cycling, and learning about the area’s geological history and cultural traditions.
More about the Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark ↗The Lake Saimaa region offers numerous other natural attractions, such as the Kummakivi balancing rock in Ruokolahti and the scenic landscapes of the Luonteri area. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely walk, a challenging hike, or a peaceful paddle, the diverse landscapes here provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventures.
