Embark on the ultimate summer adventure in Finland’s Lakeland! Swim in crystal-clear lakes, relax in authentic Finnish saunas, indulge in local cuisine, and soak up the tranquil beauty of this breathtaking region.
As the midnight sun casts a golden glow over Finland’s breathtaking Lakeland region, a world of summer adventures awaits. Known as the “Land of a Thousand Lakes” (though it’s actually home to over 180,000!), Lakeland transforms into a warm-weather paradise each summer, inviting visitors to explore its vast waters, lush forests, and serene landscapes. From kayaking through crystal-clear lakes to hiking scenic trails and experiencing local Finnish culture in quaint lakeside villages, Lakeland offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of water sports or the tranquility of nature, a summer in Lakeland, Finland, promises unforgettable memories and a deep connection to Finland’s pristine wilderness.
So pack your bags and dive into the heart of Finnish nature, where every lake and forest path beckons you to explore!
A Finnish Summer Feast: Fresh, Foraged, and Flavorful
In Finland, summer means lighter, fresher fare: a shift from the heavier meats and root vegetables of winter to dishes featuring fish, vibrant greens, new potatoes, and, of course, berries – strawberries, raspberries, lingonberries, blueberries, and more. Thanks to Finland’s Everyman’s Rights, anyone can freely forage and fish on public lands, including the islands dotting Lake Saimaa. For Finns, summer is a time to connect with nature, often spent boating, foraging, fishing, and enjoying the great outdoors.
If you’re visiting, renting a boat is a great way to explore the fish-rich waters of Lake Saimaa, and no permit is required for rod fishing. With a simple wood-fire grill or portable barbecue, you can cook your fresh catch right on the shore. Foraging for mushrooms and herbs nearby makes the experience even richer.
New to fishing? Start at Vuoksi Fishing Park in Imatra. Nestled by the Vuoksi River, this family-run spot, offers guidance for beginners fishing in a stocked salmon pond. The park also offers permits for solo anglers, along with a smokehouse and restaurant where you can savor your catch.
Finnish summer cuisine is all about fresh ingredients, outdoor feasts, and embracing nature – a culinary experience that brings you closer to the land and its flavors. To row out to any of the uninhabited islands in Lake Saimaa for a camping-foraging experience, you can collect the topography map from the Tourist Office. It will help you navigate better around the rocky parts of the lake. If you don’t want to do it alone, try an outfitter like Taiga Saimaa
But First, Sauna
No Finnish experience is complete without embracing the sauna. In Finland, there’s a saying that there are more saunas than people, and saunas are cherished spaces where Finns often find creative ways to make the experience memorable. For a classic lakeside sauna experience, consider Hossukan Helmi in Imatra, a cozy wooden cabin by Lake Saimaa. Equipped with a wood-fired sauna, hot tub, and even floating suits for those who aren’t swimmers, it offers relaxation with a view.
For a unique twist, try the sauna facilities at Holiday Club Saimaa, where the sauna meets a water park vibe. Known as Cirque De Saimaa (Circus of Saimaa), it offers a range of options including a wood sauna, a salt sauna, a heated pool, and even a dedicated kids’ sauna. Complete with dancing fountains, slides, and colorful lights, it’s an entertaining way to relax Finnish-style.
Lake Saimaa: A Glacial Wonder and Gateway to Russia
Lake Saimaa, a glacial lake formed over 5,700 years ago, is Finland’s largest lake and the fourth largest in Europe. It’s a rich habitat with 30 fish species, including endangered ones like the white-spotted Arctic char and the dark-spotted landlocked salmon. From the city of Lappeenranta, regular cruises offer a scenic way to explore the lake, with some even reaching the Russian city of Vyborg, just a few hours away. An interesting fact: travelers entering Russia from Finland by cruise ship can stay visa-free for up to 72 hours.
The lake is connected to the Gulf of Finland through the Saimaa Canal, a marvel that began construction in the 19th century. Following the 1939 war, nearly half of the canal was ceded to Russia. Lake Saimaa sits at an elevation over 76 meters higher than the Gulf, so a series of locks regulates water flow to prevent the lake from draining. Along the cruise route, ships navigate several locks before reaching the Gulf of Finland, though many routes cross just one lock for a shorter journey.
City of Endless Summers
In Finland, the short summer season is celebrated to the fullest. Festivals, open-air theaters, and grand Midsummer events bring energy to towns across the country. Imatra, located by the shores of Lake Saimaa, hosts spectacular rapids show each summer. The Imatra Rapids, formed when the lake’s waters carved out a narrow ravine, is part of the Kruununpuisto Nature Reserve. Established in 1842, it is Finland’s oldest nature reserve and shelters rare vegetation and ancient rock formations shaped by the river. The roaring rapids once drew crowds who left their mark by carving names into the rocks; some inscriptions date back to the 1700s, including one by Brazilian Emperor Dom Pedro II in 1876.
Though the rapids are now harnessed for hydroelectric power, the dam opens in summer to recreate the thrilling water flow, drawing visitors from all over. Next to the rapids stands the striking Scandic Imatran Valtionhotelli, considered one of Finland’s most beautiful buildings. This art nouveau hotel resembles a castle with its turreted towers and intricate arches. Fox carvings decorate the entrance, and a stone cat perches dramatically on the roof.
Nearby Lappeenranta, a historic border town, adds to the region’s charm. Overlooking Lake Saimaa, the 17th-century Fortress of Lappeenranta tells a story of Swedish and Russian influences with its ancient Orthodox church, old cannons, and guardhouses. Visitors can explore art museums, cavalry exhibits, and local craft shops, while a summer meadow filled with yellow dandelions offers a peaceful retreat near the fortress.
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