SAIMAA 2021 HOLIDAY GUIDE TO LAPPEENRANTA AND IMATRA REGION - goSaimaa
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SAIMAA 2021 HOLIDAY GUIDE TO LAPPEENRANTA AND IMATRA REGION
WELCOME TO SAIMAA A DV E N T U R E A N D
Authentic experiences S P O RT S H O L I DAY
04 Experience the best sides of Saimaa Natural outdoors and indoors
with a tour of five towns! 20-21 Active holiday
05 Welcome to the Lake Saimaa area 22-23 Ukonniemi – Holiday paradise
6-7 Särä and local delicacies on the Saimaa lakeside
24-25 Saimaan palju –
Experiences to treasure
S PA H O L I DAY
Local relaxation 26-27 Savitaipale – nature and exercise
28 Fun in the winter snow
9 Sauna
29 Summer activities for all ages
10-11 Holiday Club Saimaa
12-13 Imatran Kylpylä Spa Resort
C I T Y H O L I DAY
Highlights & recommendations of
C O T TA G E A N D
sustainable Saimaa region
N AT U R E H O L I DAY
31 Sandcastle –Let´s Play
Ecological choices
32-33 Original Sokos Hotel Lappee
14-15 Relaxing cottage holiday 34 Evergreen Lappeenranta
16-17 Enchanting nature excursions 35 Eventful Imatra
18 Sights and attractions in Saimaa 36 Treat yourself to some
19 The 4 seasons of Lake Saimaa nights in a hotel
37 Cruises on Saimaa and
visa-free cruises to Russia
55 Lappeenranta Airport
1.
Experience Welcome to the
the best sides of Lake Saimaa area
2.
Saimaa Lappeenranta and Imatra region is located near the Russian border only a couple
of hours away from the Finnish capital Helsinki. From Helsinki you can easily get
Saimaa is one of Finland’s most popular tourist desti- here by train, bus or car within just a few hours. Public transport is easy and af-
nations. The easiest way to experience its full enchant- fordable way of travelling in Finland. You can travel visa-free to Russia from Lap-
ment is to take a tour of the cities on the shores of Lake peenranta and combine the beautiful lakeland nature with the cultural metropol
Saimaa. There is at most one hundred kilometres from of St. Petersburg.
one city to another, so take a relaxed trip to Imatra, BY TRAIN FROM BY CAR THE NINE MUNICIPALITIES
HELSINKI, Main roads 6 and 13 will take you OF SOUTH KARELIA
Lappeenranta, Mikkeli, Savonlinna and Varkaus! ST. PETERSBURG AND VYBORG towards Lappeenranta and Imatra. The region of South Karelia includes
If you take an express train from Hel- From the Helsinki metropolitan area, a total of nine municipalities: Ima-
1. IMATRA – RAPIDS AND SPAS 3. MIKKELI – DELICACIES AT sinki, you will be in Lappeenranta the drive to the Saimaa region takes tra, Lappeenranta, Lemi, Luumä-
3. Imatrankoski is one of Finland’s old- THE MANOR AND PARSONAGE or Imatra in a couple of hours. The only about 2.5 hours, so the distance ki, Parikkala, Rautjärvi, Ruoko-
est and best-known tourist destina- The food experience on the shores of well-maintained railway network is also convenient for weekend trips. lahti, Savitaipale and Taipalsaari.
tions, and rightly so. Its rapid shows Lake Saimaa continues in Mikkeli, also enables travelling to other parts A car is also the best option for tour- Of these, Imatra and Lappeenranta
are an experience you won’t forget! for example, at the Tertin Kartano of Finland. There is also a taxi con- ing around in the Lakeland area. are cities.
The luxurious Kruunupuisto park is manor, which has been in the same nection from Lappeenranta central
a memory of the region’s history as family for hundreds of years. Time railway/bus station to Vainikkala BY PLANE SAIMAA RINGED SEAL
a tourist destination and the Ukon- flies when you taste the delicacies of railway station. You can reach Lappeenranta and The Saimaa ringed seal (Pusa hispida
niemi-Rauha area has diverse and the manor’s own garden. In the fasci- Imatra region in a couple of hours saimensis) is one of the world’s rarest
modern sports and leisure attrac- nating garden of the Kenkävero par- Did you know that you can also whizz when flying to Helsinki. Lappeen- seals, appearing only in the Saimaa
tions. There are Imatra Spa Resort, sonage, you can enjoy local flavours to St. Petersburg in 1.5 hours? The ranta International Airport is locat- waterway in Finland. The Saimaa
Holiday Club Saimaa and other prop- in the midst of flowers. fast Allegro train departs daily from ed only two kilometres from the city ringed seal is highly endangered and
erties as well as many companies of- Lappeenranta’s Vainikkala railway centre: check the latest flight connec- was given protected status by the
fering entertainment. The Salpaus- 4. SAVONLINNA – CASTLE, station. With the Tolstoi train you tions on lppairport.fi. WWF in 1979.
selkä ridges follow lake Saimaa and OPERA AND NATURE can also travel to Moscow.
there are plenty of routes, tracks, Savonlinna is, of course, known for
fields and arenas for athletes and na- Olavinlinna Castle and its Opera Fes-
4. ture tourists. Remember to also stop tival, but nature is also close by. The
by the uniquely excellent Parikkala Linnansaari and Kolovesi national
Sculpture Park! parks are easily accessible by water,
and you can also admire nature on a Lake Saimaa Finland's largest lake Distance between cities (in kilometers)
2. LAPPEENRANTA – cruise along the archipelago. At the
KARELIAN HOSPITALITY local marketplace you can taste Lört- Surface area 4,460 km2 From Helsinki to Lappeenranta 220 km
One of the things Lappeenranta is sy pastries with various fillings and From Helsinki to Imatra 255 km
known for, are the fast food deli- vendace of the lake Puruvesi. Maximum length 194 km From St. Petersburg to Lappeenranta 190 km
cacies of its local marketplace: the
Vety meat and egg pie and the Atomi 5. VARKAUS – THEATRE, Maximum width 138 km From St. Petersburg to Imatra 202 km
pie which has either egg or meat in- VISUAL ARTS AND MECHANI-
side. Another local delicacy is Lemin CAL MUSIC Shore length 14,850 km By train
särä, a traditional lamb meat dish. In Cultural experiences in the old in- From Helsinki to Lappeenranta 2 h 2 mins
Lappeenranta, time passes on a for- dustrial city of Varkaus include the Number of islands 13,710 From Helsinki to Imatra 2 h 33 mins
tress walk and a visa-free cruise all Varkaus theatre, which is known
the way to Vyborg or St. Petersburg. throughout the country, and the
5. Friends of the Finnish TV series Sor- Väinölä Art Centre, where you can
jonen can take an exciting tour of the admire the gems of visual art. The
filming locations. city’s specialties include the unique Timetables www.vr.fi (trains, also Allegro to Russia) www.saimaatravel.fi
instruments of the Mechanical Mu- online www.lppairport.fi (visa-free cruises from Lappeenranta to Russia)
sic Museum. Varkaus also offers food (Lappeenranta International Airport) www.matkahuolto.fi (buses)
culture – it is, for example, the caviar
capital of Finland!
4 WELCOME TO SAIMAA 5 WELCOME TO SAIMAA
Särä
ONE OF THE SEVEN WONDERS OF FINLAND
Restaurant Säräpirtti Kippurasarvi in Lemi has served the
mouth-watering roast lamb with Lemi potatoes for 40 years.
Särä is a delicious lamb dish made ac- Kippurasarvi is the only restaurant people can, however, be reserved
cording to a 1000-year-old tradition. in Finland that specialises in this for slots outside the set serving
It takes at least nine hours to cook, one dish. Särä is served with bread, times. Särä can also be purchased
and the slow roasting gua rantees a butter, low alcohol home brew and at Lappeenranta’s K-supermarket
mouth-watering experience. In the water – and don’t forget the mixed Rakuuna and the Särä shop at K-
traditional Lemi way, Särä is enjoyed fruit soup served for dessert. The supermarket Lehmus to take home.
slowly, and you are welcome to have restaurant has set serving times, It is also available from the online
as many servings as you like. which need to be booked in advance. store and can be delivered anywhere
Tables for groups of more than ten in Finland.
RESTAURANTS AND CAFES Pulsan Asema Karelian Gourmet
www.pulsanasema.fi Ravintola Voima
LAPPEENRANTA REGION Villa Malmi (catering)
Sputnik ravintola Neitsytniemen Kartano (catering)
Holiday Club Saimaa www.saipa.fi www.kareliangourmet.fi
Le Biff
Easy Kitchen Kahvila Antell-Saimaa Kesäkahvila Kaiku
O´Learys www.antell.fi www.creativekaiku.fi
Classic Pizza
Beach House Saimaa by Robert’s Kahvila Ellen Wanha Virveli
Coffee www.kotkaniemi.fi www.vuoksenkalastuspuisto.fi
www.holidayclub.fi
Ship restaurant Prinsessa Armaada ABC Imatra
LOCAL
Angus Steak & Wine www.prinsessaarmaada.fi ABC Särkisalmi
Amarillo www.abcasemat.fi
Rosso IsoKristiina s/s Suvi-Saimaa
Onni kahvila & ravintola don papa pizza & wine Kauppakatu
Cafe Restaurant Kanuuna PUBS AND BARS
Pizzeria don papa Satama
DELICACIES Coffee House IsoKristiina Katto by don papa LAPPEENRANTA REGION
Hesburger www.donpapa.fi
Cafe Mylly Birra
FAFA’s IsoKristiina Ravintola Sahrami Lamppu
Kehruuhuone www.sahrami.fi VENN
Other local delicacies Saga Event Venue
www.raflaamo.fi ABC Viipurinportti
www.abcasemat.fi
Kasinoterassi
www.raflaamo.fi
Wanha Makasiini Bistro IMATRA REGION
T HER E A R E M A N Y LOCA L DELICACIES WORT H TAST ING IN T HE SA IM A A A R EA. www.ravintolawanhamakasiini.fi Satamatie 6
www.satamatie6.com Pub Vahti
for additional fillings include raw onion, garlic The Kitchen
Vety and Atomi (’Hydrogen and Atom’) www.ravintolakitchen.fi
IMATRA REGION
www.raflaamo.fi
mayonnaise, pickled cucumber salad, ketchup
Lappeenranta has the best quick snacks in Fin- NIGHTCLUBS AND DANCING
Tang Capital À la Carte Kastanja
and mustard. No visit to Lappeenranta is com-
land. You can taste the hearty traditional treat, www.tangcapital.fi Pistaasi
plete without this local delicacy. LAPPEENRANTA REGION
served for more than 40 years, at the Market Aulabaari Helmi
Säräpirtti Kippurasarvi Kahvila Akseli G
www.sarapirtti.fi Amarillo
or Harbour Square. Originally, the meat pies Keilabaari Las Palmas
Allasbaari
were called atom or hydrogen bombs; the atomi Pantteri & Marianne sweets Lappeenrannan Upseerikerho www.imatrankylpyla.fi
www.raflaamo.fi
Did you know that these sweet tooth’s favou- www.lappeenrannanupseerikerho.fi
(atom) consists of a meat pie filled with either IMATRA REGION
Rosso
smoked or boiled ham or a boiled egg, while rites have been made in Lappeenranta for Hotel Salpa Pub Vahti
Lumo, restaurant Tähtitaivas
decades? And they still are! Aino kahvila & ravintola www.imatrankylpyla.fi
vety (hydrogen) has both ham and egg. Options Jalo, cafe Hesburger
Rela, terrace www.raflaamo.fi
www.hotellisalpa.fi
6 WELCOME TO SAIMAA 7 WELCOME TO SAIMAA
There is nothing more
Finnish than sauna
Ok, so you have arrived in Finland and you are most likely a little worried or
even terrified about the prospect of going to a sauna. Although the worry is
understandable, you really needn’t to – it’s just a few people sitting in a boiling
hot room almost naked.
Did you know? Per capita, Finland has 3 Yes, Finns go to sauna nude even 7 Another big favourite is the scents
the highest number of saunas in the with strangers. In groups, women sold in various shops, for putting into
world. If you don’t get to know any lo- and men go to sauna separately, but the sauna water basin. These will fill
cals during your visit, a good way to families go together. Don´t worry, your sauna with aromas such as tar
experience sauna is to rent a cottage Finns will understand if you want to and birch.
or visit on of the four spas in the area. wear a swimsuit or a towel.
The latter choice offers various dif- 8 You will be sweating heavily in a
ferent choices as the former is more 4 Don’t be alarmed when people start sauna, so be sure to drink plenty.
traditional. throwing water on the hot stove, since Water is probably best for you, but
that is the single most enjoyable aspect beer and cider is what Finns enjoy the
So surely you want to try one of the of the sauna. What follows is the löyly most.
most important traditions of Fin- – hot steam that makes people in the sau-
SPA HOLIDAY
land? But before you do here’s a few na make weird grunts and funny faces. 9 Finns might not be the most talk-
facts and tips so you can get the most But, once you get used to it, it feels ative bunch, but if you get the chance,
out of the experience. straight up heavenly. you should try and open a conver-
sation between löyly. There’s some-
IN SAIMAA 1 Just kick back and take it easy.
While we may seem to take the con-
5 There are no rules for how often
you should throw more water on the
thing about the temperature and
steam that gets us to open up.
cept of extreme sweating seriously, stove. Whenever you feel like another
we go there to enjoy ourselves. wave of steam, go for it. If it gets too 10 Sauna is best enjoyed with the
hot, just sit on the lower bench or go cool-down breaks. When it get’s too
2 Getting invited to a sauna is an hon- outside for some cool air. hot, cool down in shower, lake or
our. It is said that in Finland, more snow. One of the best feeling in the
important decisions get made in sau- 6 The Finnish sauna tradition is not world is diving into the cool lake after
nas than in meetings. complete without the sauna whisk hot sauna.
made of birch twigs, with which you
can give your skin a refreshing work-
over during a sauna.
8 S PA H O L I D AY 9 S PA H O L I D AY
Holiday Club Saimaa
FA MILY HOLIDAY F ULL OF ACTIVITIES
Holiday Club Saimaa is one of the largest leisure centres in Finland. It includes
Cirque de Saimaa spa, Harmony Spa and a multi-purpose arena. The holiday
resort is the perfect venue for both a laid-back, action-packed family vacation
Services and activities
and a business meeting or event. • 229 hotel rooms, close to 300 • Gym
holiday homes and Villas
apartments • BowlCircus bowling centre
ACCOMMODATION ANGRY BIRDS ACTIVITY PARK GOLF • 5 restaurants: Easy Kitchen, • Karaoke and pool table
In addition to spa hotel accommo- The indoor Angry Birds Activity Park Holiday Club Golf Saimaa is located in Le Biff, O’Learys, Classic Piz-
dation, Holiday Club also offers for the whole family boasts loads of the vicinity of an 18-hole golf course, za and Beach House Saimaa • Tennis
high-quality holiday home accommo- features: a downstairs adventure range, par-3 course, putting greens by Robert’s Coffee
dation, even for larger groups. The area for young children, upstairs and clubhouse. In addition, Saimaa • Golf course and practice range
area includes close to 300 holiday Xbox game zone, bag jump tower, slap offers a training centre that wel- • Cirque de Saimaa Spa and
homes and Villas apartments, the shot radar, parkour track and a skate- comes all golf enthusiasts: no green Sauna World • Angry Birds indoor activity
largest of which accommodate up to boarding area. The park also includes card or club membership is required park
eight people. The holiday homes are the Angry Birds Shop and a café. at the training centre. • Harmony Spa treatment
well-equipped and located in the im- section • Gant Shop
mediate vicinity of the spa. WINTER ACTIVITIES SUMMERTIME ADVENTURES
Holiday Club Saimaa delights skiers Enjoy summertime water activities • Multi-purpose arena at the • Around-the-clock R-kiosk at
CIRQUE DE SAIMAA SPA AND with its well-maintained network of at our private beach, where we rent heart of the hotel the hotel reception
SAUNA WORLD skiing trails. Dipping into the warm out boats, stand-up paddle boards,
The spa features fountains, slides, spa pools after sports is simply di- mountain bikes and fat bikes as well • Padel court on the rooftop
massage stations, a game pool and a vine. as tennis and miniature golf equip- terrace
diving pool with bridges. The young- ment. Fishing trips, paddling, stand-
est guests enjoy their own, safe chil- RESTAURANTS up paddling and parasailing are
dren’s pool and igloo sauna. Sauna At the O’Learys family restaurant, among the activities offered in the
World includes all manner of saunas. you can enjoy hamburgers, sports, Lappeenranta and Imatra regions,
Harmony Spa provides high-quality karaoke or a game of pool. Classic Piz- and cruises and boat and bike rentals
pampering treatments. za serves excellent pizzas and salads. are also available.
Breakfast and lunch are served at the
SUMMERTIME ROOFTOP TER- Easy Kitchen. The pool bar offers re- EXCELLENT FACILITIES
RACE freshing drinks. Beach House Saimaa FOR HOSTING EVENTS
The Sun Deck rooftop terrace fea- by Robert’s Coffee is located by Lake The round tables of the Alexander
tures a padel court, outdoor pool, Saimaa and, in addition to harbour Hall at the Paviljonki venue seat up
wooden bathing tub and log sauna. services, it provides first-class café to 120 guests, and the eight deluxe
The Sun Deck can be accessed direct- and restaurant services. Exquisite rooms upstairs offer a good night’s
ly from the spa. The log sauna on the dinners are served by Le Biff, our à sleep. Conference facilities are also
rooftop terrace is open all year round, la carte restaurant boasting a Chaîne available at the main building of the
the bathing tub and outdoor pool only des Rôtisseurs plaque. spa hotel. Holiday Club Arena offers
during the summer. an outstanding setting for hosting
conferences, celebrations and even
trade fairs.
10 S PA H O L I D AY 11 S PA H O L I D AY
Services and activities
• 171 hotel rooms and 49 Chalet • 8-lane bowling alley, Escape
suites Room
Imatran Kylpylä Spa Resort • Holiday homes and Villa
apartments
• Cafe, three restaurants and
• Sports centre and gyms,
sports hall
• Ukonniemi sports activities
two bars within
EASTERN FINLAND’S MOST DIVERSE HOLIDAY CENTRE INVITES FOR A VACATION walking distance
• Spa Taikametsä, 16 pools and
80-metre-long water slide • Skiing and jogging trails from
the spa doors
• Wellamo Beauty Spa’s pam-
Imatran Kylpylä Spa Resort is one of the best family spas and most popular tour- pering • Experience and programme
ist destinations in Finland. More than 200,000 holidaymakers from Finland and spa treatments services
overseas visit us every year. • Physical therapy services • Conference services
ON THE SHORE OF LAKE SAIMAA various energising pools and whirl- Imatran Kylpylä Spa Resort is Finland’s
Imatran Kylpylä Spa Resort is in pools, hot, cold and shallow walking most diverse spa hotel and has every-
Ukonniemi, an area of natural beauty pools, a hydro running pool with a thing needed for a relaxing holiday.
on the shore of Lake Saimaa. The area counter current unit, pools with mas-
and spa are home to a wide range of sage showers and whirlpool benches. EXERCISE AND PLAY
activities and all the services needed The range of pools also includes a fit- Imatran Kylpylä Spa Resort offers
for a successful holiday. The holiday ness pool, a toddlers’ pool and a year- holidaymakers indoor sports facili-
setting is great for people of all ages. round heated outdoor pool. You can ties, a well-equipped gym, instruc-
Imatran Kylpylä is also a popular con- swim through a tunnel admiring the tor-led fitness classes, an Escape
ference venue and a basecamp for ath- dancing Northern Lights and twin- Room, a modern 8-lane bowling alley
letics training and coaching camps. kling stars, for example. Accommo- and a great weekly programme. The
dation and holiday prices include free gym is free of charge to Spa guests.
At Imatran Kylpylä Spa Resort, hol- admission to Spa Taikametsä. There are also various games such
idaymakers can stay at the hotel, as frisbee golf, badminton, floorball
in quality holiday apartments or in QUALITY SPA TREATMENTS and tennis available. There’s a large
their own villa located within walk- Beauty Spa Wellamo’s quality cos- playroom and park for the youngest
ing distance of the spa hotel. The ho- metology services, pampering treat- members of the family and a video
tel also has pet friendly rooms. ments and massages, baths and peat and gaming world for adolescents.
treatments add a touch of luxury to
UNIQUE EXPERIENCE any holiday. A range of options from GREAT OUTDOOR RECREATION
At the heart of Imatran Kylpylä Spa deep relaxing treatments to thera- AREAS
Resort is the Spa Taikkametsä, a peutic packages is available for wom- The door of Imatran Kylpylä opens
world of around 1,500 m2 of 16 differ- en and men. Beauty Spa Wellamo is out onto outdoor recreation areas,
ent pools, an exhilarating 80-metre open also at weekends and during the Lake Saimaa shoreline and na-
long water slide and two shorter ones. public holidays. ture trails and there’s also a sandy
The spa theme has been inspired by child-friendly beach just a couple of
the nature and underwater world DELICIOUS FOOD AND ENTER- hundred metres away. In winter, you
of Lake Saimaa. The natural light TAINMENT UNTIL LATE can ski straight to the various tracks
floods in superbly through the large Imatran Kylpylä Spa Resort restau- from the Spa yard and the longest
windows and various special sound rants are the place to enjoy delicious (5 km) first snow ski track in South
and lighting effects as well as weath- food, with a choice of generous buffet Finland opens already in October.
er phenomena – thunder, rain and tables, à la carte menus, street food Two full-size golf courses, high-stan-
mist – add to the magical atmosphere. and café treats not to mention the de- dard sports facilities and quality
The spa also features spectacular el- lights of the pool bar. The large atmo- mountain biking track in Ukonniemi
ements such as a waterfall, bridges, spheric patio overlooking the superb are also near the Spa.
caverns and water curtains. Saimaa landscape is open in summer.
Restaurant Tähtitaivas and Bar Hel-
The water temperature in the pools mi offer great evening entertainment
ranges from +8C to +38C. The Spa’s in the form of live music, dancing and
diverse pools include a wide range of karaoke.
12 S PA H O L I D AY 13 S PA H O L I D AY
Your cottage awaits you
The pure nature of South Karelia is an attraction in itself and best enjoyed in a
holiday cottage. Wake up to the sound of birdsong, be next to the water, in the
shade of a forest or in the peace of the wilderness. Peaceful nights and fresh
mornings have a certain appeal. Breathe in. Breathe out. You’ve arrived.
There are plenty of holiday cottages CAMPING AND COTTAGE IMATRA REGION
and villas in the Imatran Kylpylä Spa ACCOMMODATION
Resort and Holiday Club Saimaa area Imatran Kylpylä
that can comfortably accommodate LAPPEENRANTA REGION holiday apartments
also larger groups. Besides holiday www.imatrankylpyla.fi
villages, there’s a choice of quality Camping Lappeenranta
holiday villas and more traditional www.campinglappeenranta.fi Vuoksen Kalastuspuisto Camping
individual cottages complete with & Huvila Karhunpesä
their own peace and quiet and beach. Holiday Club Saimaa www.vuoksenkalastuspuisto.fi
You can enjoy a cottage holiday at any holiday apartments
time of the year and it’s just as easy to www.holidayclub.fi Saimaa Lakeside
hit the ski trail as it is the hiking trail www.setl.fi
from just outside your door. Saimaa Gardens
www.saimaagardens.com Kiiverin lomamökit
If lakescapes attract you time and www.kiiverinlomamokit.fi
again, your own timeshare might be Maamiehen majat
the best form of accommodation on www.maamiehenmajat.com
RELAXING your holiday. You can occupy Imatra
OTHER ACCOMMODATION
COTTAGE HOLIDAY
Spa Villas and Imatra Spa Chalets Askon ja Maijan Maatilamajoitus LAPPEENRANTA REGION
holiday homes on the shore of Lake www.rantatupa.net
Saimaa in Ukonniemi when you want Farmhouse holidays Tuhannen
and at other times Imtran Kylpylä Tapion huvilat Tarinan Talo
can let the place out. There are also www.tapionhuvilat.net www.tuhannentarinantalo.com
quality timeshare homes in Rauha,
Lappeenranta in the area of Holiday Kokkis-huvilat Island accommodation
Club Saimaa. www.kokkis.com www.taigasaimaa.fi
The camping sites in Saimaa will Saalastin lomamökit Pulsan Asema
delight campers and caravaners www.saalasti.net www.pulsanasema.fi
alike with their stunning lake vistas
and pleasant amenities. A boat will Wooddream IMATRA REGION
conveniently ferry you one of Lake www.wooddream.fi
Saimaa’s numerous islands, where Seurakuntaopisto, Jaakkiman
you can spend the night in a ham- Kiviniemen mökkilomat kampus, Ruokolahti
mock under the starry skies. www.kiviniemi.info www.seurakuntaopisto.fi
Villa Lummelahti AuroraHut
www.villalummelahti.fi www.aurorahut.fi
Willa Rautalahti
www.villafinland.fi
14 C O T TA G E A N D N AT U R E H O L I D AY 15 C O T TA G E A N D N AT U R E H O L I D AY
Enchanting nature excursion
HIKING, CYCLING OR CANOEING
The heaths of Salpausselkä ridge have smooth nature trails, and you can also climb
higher to admire the lake scenery. Spend a few hours hiking across the nearby
Where to rent a bike or canoe? Landing points in Saimaa
terrain or bring a tent and go camping. Take the Imatra Geo Trail and experience You can rent a kayak, canoe, bike, SUP board or rowing • Karhusaari, near the Lappeenranta harbour: a
the impact of history on nature. The historic Salpalinja fortifications are also an boat from the Lappeenranta Sandcastle in summer. pier and a lean-to shelter.
interesting day-trip destination, and going with a guide ensures that you will hear Canoes, rowing boats and motor boats can be rented
• Ruohosaari, Lappeenranta:
the best stories. There are also several geocaches in the South Karelia region. from the Vuoksi Fishing Park in Imatra. Many hotels a lean-to shelter and a beach.
also have bikes available for their guests to hire. Don’t
BIKING The Saimaa Canal Culture Trail (1.5 kala. There are also excellent bird- • Satamosaari, between Imatra and Joutseno:
forget the city bikes of Lappeenranta and Imatra.
In the environs of Lappeenranta km) starts at the Canal Museum. QR watching spots on the Vuoksi river in saunas and barbecues.
codes offering information in English the centre of Imatra, Lake Pien-Raut-
Admire the shores of Saimaa on the
can be found on Finnish-language järvi and Konnunsuo Fen. • Muukonsaari, Joutseno: a trekking centre
Lappeenranta shore route. As well as
urban areas, there are several great guidance boards along the path. with a barbecue and cottage accommodation.
CANOEING
cycling trails in the Saimaa Canal
Explore the nature of Finnish fens In the environs of Imatra • Ilkonsaari: piers and barbecues and five chap-
and Taipalsaari areas.
by walking on duckboards in Häm-
mäauteensuo and taking a break at a
In the vicinity of Ukonniemi in Ima-
tra and Rauha in Lappeenranta you
More information about routes els as an attraction.
In the environs of Imatra
lean-to shelter. can canoe along the shores, admiring • Rastinniemi: barbecues and a long beach.
The Vuoksi Culture Trail follows the
the boathouses, or around nearby is- • Descriptions and directions:
Vuoksi river along pedestrian and bi-
In the environs of Imatra lands. www.ekvas.fi, www.retkikartta.fi • Huuhanranta: a lean-to shelter and a
cycle paths and bridges. You can bike
part of the trail, 7 or 4.5 kilometres, Kruununpuisto Park, next to the Val- spectacular shallow sandy beach.
tionhotelli castle hotel, is the starting The Ruokolahti Canoe Trail is 110 • Routes and downloadable mobile guides:
or cover the whole distance, 11.5 kilo-
point for both the Muinaisuoma Na- kilometres long. It first follows outdoorsfinland.com • Ruuhonsaari: a pier, barbecues and a sauna.
metres. The trail is also suitable for
ture and Culture Trail (1 km) and the small lakes, then runs along a river,
walking.
Mellonlahti Nature Trail (3 km). through historical canals and the
The official trail of the Imatra MTB open waters of Saimaa, and ends in
The Lammassaari Shore Trail near the centre of Ruokolahti.
event is ideal for mountain biking, as
Imatra Spa is 3 km long.
it offers paths of various lengths. The
10-kilometre trail is also suitable for In the environs of Lappeenranta
On the Imatra Geo Trail, you can feel If you canoe in Lappeenranta town
beginners.
the history from the Ice Age to the bay, you can take a break at a lean-
present day, and admire the Salpaus- to shelter on Karhusaari Island. Re-
Island tour
selkä ridge. member to watch out for boats and
This 170-km route goes around south-
ern Saimaa and includes one or two ships.
Close to the border
boat rides. Another option is the
Head for the River Hiihtolanjoki to The Alajoki Trail is about 19 km long
180-kilometre Western Saimaa Tour,
take in the river environment and old and includes five rapids. You can pad-
which you can also combine with the
power plants. Follow a managed hik- dle this trail in early summer when
Kyläniemi island tour.
ing trail, stairs and duckboards for the water is high.
1–4 km along Highway 6.
Close to the border
EuroVelo 13, the Iron Curtain Trail, is Pien-Saimaa is a perfect destination
More demanding trekking for a brisk day paddle, as there are
part of the European-wide EuroVelo
The most stunning stretch of the Eu- several places for landing along the
network of cycle routes. In Finland,
ropean long-distance path, E10 (over trail.
it starts at Vaalimaa and follows the
100 km in South Karelia), runs from
Finnish-Russian border all the way to
Imatra via Ruokolahti and Rautjärvi The Väliväylä Canoe Trail from Lap-
the Arctic Ocean.
to Parikkala. Legs of 2–10 km, ideal peenranta to Kouvola takes 4–8 days
for day trips, can be found in Savitai- to paddle. You can spend the nights
HIKING
pale, Joutseno, Ruokolahti and Parik- in lean-to shelters. Väliväylä is also a
In the environs of Lappeenranta kala. great day-trip destination. The Kan-
The section of the Lappeenranta nuskoski area, in particular, offers
shore route from Rakuunamäki to Nature treks and birdwatching lovely trails and lots of rest points.
Skinnarila is a picturesque oasis on One of inland Finland’s best nature
the shores of Lake Saimaa. sites is Siikalahti’s wetland in Parik-
16 C O T TA G E A N D N AT U R E H O L I D AY 17 C O T TA G E A N D N AT U R E H O L I D AY
Sights and attractions
in Saimaa
Saimaa is home to unrivalled, impressive natural surroundings. There are traces
of history and the region serves as a place to stay for magnificent ringed seals.
The natural surroundings of Saimaa were here long before us, but welcome us like
The 4 seasons
old friends.
of Lake Saimaa
IMATRANKOSKI RAPIDS AND life of ancient hunters in the Saimaa lated in Lake Saimaa after the Ice
THEIR HISTORY area. The mighty cliffs on the shores Age and adapted to life there. Even 4 DISTINCTLY DIFFERENT TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
Imatrankoski rapids were the first feature paintings of people, boats and though it is rare to see a ringed seal,
tourist destination in Finland and a animals. when you do see one basking in the
true national sight. People have been sun on a rock, you know the trip was
DEC – JAN – FEB just some empty space between the right? Summertime in Saimaa is full
coming even from abroad to admire KUMMAKIVI worth making.
WINTER –35°C...10°C icy winter and steamy summer. No, of steamy activities to keep you warm
the foaming rapids since back in What is that massive rock in the mid-
Contrary to the popular belief, the no, no my friend, Spring is the season enough: golfing, fishing expeditions,
the late 18th century. Imatrankoski dle of nowhere, the one that tourists SALPA LINE
temperature isn’t always freezing we appreciate the most. Why? – well canoeing, hiking, horse riding and
rapids were formed around 6,000 come great distances to admire? The The Salpa Line is a defence struc-
here in Finland. But it does get quite the retreating ice, sparkling waves tennis, just to name a few.
years ago when the land rose and non-initiated might think of Uluru ture dating from WW2 and follows
cold in here during winter – which is and budding nature are all reasons
the waters of Lake Saimaa tore the in Australia, but this rock is much the Finnish-Russia border, extend-
great! During winter the snow and to be extra cheerful. Also while we’re SEP – OCT – NOV
Salpausselkä ridge apart. In the 19th nearer home in South Karelia. This ing from the Gulf of Finland in the
frost create amazing opportunities being boastful, Lake Saimaa is at it’s AUTUMN –15°C...20°C
century, when the rapids became an spectacular boulder of Kummaki- south to Salla in the north. The
for skating, cross country skiing, best during this time of the year, es- Oh Autumn, the season which many
increasingly popular tourist desti- vi (strange rock) left precariously Salpa Line comprises 1,200 of rein-
downhill skiing, snowshoeing, snow- pecially if you’re looking to do some claim to love, but only like it because
nation, Finland’s first nature park, balancing on another rock is one forced concrete installations, wood,
mobiling and winter fishing. Also, re- hiking, camping or fishing trips. the spectacular colors make for an
Kruununpuisto (Crown Park), was of many traces of the Ice Age in the barbed wire and rocks and originally
member to listen to the silence of the awesome background for selfies.
created around them. area. The boulder has been in place stretched from the Gulf of Finland to
wintertime nature, gaze at the pure JUN – JUL – AUG
for centuries even though attempts the Arctic Ocean.
white snow, build a snowman – or if SUMMER 17°C...35°C Well we’re about to tell you that Au-
UNIQUE STORY OF THE LAKE to dislodge it have been made using
you’re feeling especially courageous, What you first may notice is that the tumn in Finland is so much more
SAIMAA AREA various means. Kummakivi can be The restored Salpa Line bunker are-
try ice swimming. quoted temperatures might be slight- than just finding the perfect spot
Lake Saimaa has open stretches of found alongside other interesting as at Luumäki, Lemi, Ruokolahti and
water, a labyrinthine archipelago, ly exaggerated. While we certainly to snap a new picture on your Ins-
nature trails. For example, Suvorov’s Ylämaa are worth a visit. If you fancy
MAR – APR – MAY sometimes may have even 35°C, it is tagram. While the Fall colours, or
sandy beaches, clear water and an- military canal in Käyhkää is in the a hike in the forest, you can visit the SPRING –20°C...20°C a safe bet that on most days it’s closer Ruska as we say in here, are truly a
cient rock formations. The founda- vicinity. Kummakivi cannot be found Salpa Line on the Salpa Trail. Alright, don’t think that us Finns to the lower end of aforementioned delight, why not try berry and mush-
tion of Saimaa took place some 1,885 using Google Maps, but a local guide treat Spring like an afterthought, scale… or even lower. But who cares room picking.
million years ago when the Earth’s can take you there. We definitely recommend those in-
lithospheric plates collided to create terested to book a guide, who can give
an ancient mountain range. The Sal- SAIMAA RINGED SEAL, A CUTE, an in-depth account of the history of
pauselkä ridges were created some TUBBY CREATURE the area. In addition, there are many
11,500-12,500 years ago and are a The Saimaa ringed seal is a subspe- different trails, some easily accessi-
reminder of the most recent Ice Age. cies of ringed seal found only in the ble, others deep in the wilderness.
Rock paintings dating from more Saimaa lake basin in Finland. The
than 6,000 years ago tell about the species remained trapped and iso-
Book you guide: Lappeenranta: saimaatravel.fi Imatra: imatratours.fi
18 C O T TA G E A N D N AT U R E H O L I D AY 19 C O T TA G E A N D N AT U R E H O L I D AYThe perfect place for
active holidays
Summer in Lappeenranta and Imatra is a great time to relax on the beach or at
a cottage, but it also offers a wide variety of activities for nature lovers, hikers,
water sports enthusiasts and adventurers.
Many athletics and sports events, technological and technical solutions Here are some of the sports
camps, tournaments and games are to support training. you can practice in the Saimaa
held in the Lappeenranta and Imatra region
region. If you enjoy testing your lim- Since local guides know the fishing
its or watching the skills of others, waters in the area, they can help you • Mountain biking
Saimaa’s diverse training facilities, find the best fishing spots. Vuoksi
quality places to play and ancillary Fishing Park offers a range of ex- • Boating
services are made for you – whether cursions including a trolling trip to
you’re a junior, professional or just Lake Saimaa, instruction in long- • Canoeing
thinking about taking up a sport. line fishing, a gigging trip to Vuoksi
and crayfish trips at the end of July. • Frisbee golf
The Salpausselkä ridge area is home
to a host of training facilities: gyms, • Orienteering
jogging tracks, football pitches, ten-
nis courts and golf courses, ice rinks, • Roller skiing
a multipurpose hall, baseball, ski
and biathlon stadium. Team-specific • Skiing
changing rooms, as well as equip-
ment maintenance, cleaning and • Biathlon
storage facilities ensure the smooth Imatra Base Camp can help you to
ACTIVE HOLIDAY
running of training and tourna- organise sports camps, tournaments or • Ice skating
ments. Meals, with diets adapted for other sport-related events in the South
athletes, can be arranged according Karelia region. • Tour skating
to wishes either in different halls,
Get in touch!
accommodation establishments or in • Ice hockey
nearby restaurants. Also physiothera-
Adventures, activities and fishing trips: py, muscle care and medical services
are first class.
info@imatrabasecamp.fi • Curling
The Kyykoski lure fishing area in • Football
LAPPEENRANTA REGION IMATRA REGION The Rauha area in Lappeenranta and Kannuskoski is an excellent place to
Ukonniemi area in Imatra boast more fish.
The House of Thousand Tales TaigaSaimaa than 70 different different sports for
www.tuhannentarinantalo.com www.taigasaimaa.fi you to try, meaning visitors are spoilt Stay conveniently near the sports
for choice. The Saimaa area provides venues. You can book affordable
Room Escape Lappeenranta Tuplakasi-action many ways for you to get moving. Im- Sport Camp and Sport accommoda-
www.roomescapelappeenranta.fi Hossukan Helmi prove your lung capacity on the ski tion at Imatran Kylpylä Spa Resort.
track, perfect your backhand on the The Sport rooms can accommodate
www.tuplakasi-action.fi
tennis court and recover from train- as many as six juniors affordably and
Saimaa Naturally ing on the massage table. Make local the Sport Camp hostel even more af-
www.saimaanaturally.com Vuoksi Fishing Park experts part of your sports holiday fordably. The Rento Hotel can com-
www.vuoksenkalastuspuisto.fi and get even more out of your own ef- fortably accommodate larger clubs
DRAKKARsport forts. Coaches and instructors in dif- and teams. Why not rent the entire
www.drakkarsport.com Creative Kaiku / Nature Saimaa ferent sports have access to the best log hotel?
www.creativekaiku.fi
Escape Room
www.imatrankylpyla.fi
20 A D V E N T U R E A N D S P O R T S H O L I D AY 21 A D V E N T U R E A N D S P O R T S H O L I D AYUkonniemi offers:
• Two large adventure spas and hundreds
of high-quality villas
• Wonderful beaches
• Island cruises
• Passenger and marina services
• Versatile trekking and skiing tracks
• Indoor and outdoor adventure parks
• Bowling alley, ballgame and ice sports halls
• Golf and disc golf
• Finland’s longest pump track for mountain
biking and a 100-kilometre path network
ukonniemi.fi
Ukonniemi
Holiday paradise on the Saimaa lakeside
Ukonniemi is one of the most beautiful holiday destinations in Finland.
It is located on the shores of the clear waters of Lake Saimaa, a few kilo-
metres from the centre of Imatra, and only a couple of hours by train
from Helsinki. Its harbour can also be reached directly by boat.
The wooded area of Ukonniemi pro- 5 kilometres long – first-snow trail pools and pampering treatments at
vides the perfect setting for the most in Southern Finland, which means one of the spas? The Ukonniemi area
varied of holidays. The area’s activity that the skiing season commences offers accommodation options rang-
parks and outdoor trails and sports at the end of October and continues ing from spa suites to holiday villas
venues on the ridges on the Saimaa well into spring. When natural snow and cosy cottages.
shore make it the perfect year-round falls, skiers can also use the exten-
holiday spot for the whole family. sive ski track network in Ukonniemi.
Golf and disc golf courses open for the To counterbalance so many energetic
summer. For winter sports lovers, activities, why not relax on a beau-
Ukonniemi offers the longest – about tiful sandy beach or enjoy the warm
22 A D V E N T U R E A N D S P O R T S H O L I D AY 23 A D V E N T U R E A N D S P O R T S H O L I D AYSaimaan palju
EXPERIENCES TO TREASURE
Saimaa is Finland’s largest lake, sprawling all across South Karelia. Its shores and
waters offer a wide range of activities for anyone interested in exercise, nature and
beautiful landscapes.
BIKE SAFARI ing to your fitness and preference. the most wins, so passing and shoot-
Mount an electric bike in Lappeen- ing are just as important as bumping
ranta for a guided two-night trip to SAUNA ON THE WAVES into others.
Puumala. The bikes will take you A sauna floating on the lake – now
from the busy town to Sarviniemi in there’s an idea for a birthday party, After paintball or bubble football,
Taipalsaari, where while waiting for a bachelor or hen night or a company the party can continue with a meal
the ferry you can gaze on the terrain outing. Before going out on the lake, and sauna on a barge. Having worked
shaped by the last Ice Age. The ferry you can indulge in paintball or bub- up an appetite, your group can enjoy
will take us to the municipality of ble football. There is a forest range for food that we’ve arranged according to
Puumala. Embraced by lake Saimaa paintball in Savitaipale, and another your wishes and relax in our special
on all sides, Puumala boasts daz- with more challenging obstacles in sauna. The best end to a busy day in
zlingly beautiful scenic routes and Lappeenranta. We arrange for a pro- the summer is to enjoy Saimaa.
excellent accommodation opportu- fessional instructor to guide your
nities. group in the ins and outs of paintball You can skip the sporty part and go
and to ensure that everyone stays straight to the sauna just as well. In-
If a long bike safari with overnight safe. vite your friends or coworkers to the
stays is too long for you, we also have sauna barge and head out onto the
shorter treks that will introduce you Bubble football is a great way to fos- lake for a great evening out: it’s rare
to the eskers and dells of South Ka- ter team spirit. When every player is to be able to enjoy a sauna and great
relia. Electric bikes make the going wearing a massive plastic bubble, the scenery at the same time. Sunset, the
smooth even in challenging terrain. game begins to resemble ice hockey, calm lake and the twilight of a sum-
Our outings range from the easy to because tackling is allowed. But as al- mer evening add up to a memorable
the gritty, and you can choose accord- ways in football, the team that scores experience.
We also rent out bikes for independ-
ent trekking for up to a week.
For the slightly more active, we can
offer canoeing before boarding the
sauna barge.
And food for the body can be
provided by our very own
barbecue chef.
24 A D V E N T U R E A N D S P O R T S H O L I D AY 25 A D V E N T U R E A N D S P O R T S H O L I D AYSavitaipale – nature
and exercise
Savitaipale occupies a gravel esker between two lakes, Saimaa and Kuolimo, and
has a wide variety of activities to offer in the natural environment and at pur-
pose-built recreation facilities. The region boasts hiking trails in unspoiled nature
and a well-equipped Sports Park along highway 13. There are plenty of things to see
and experience.
HIKING IN trail starting in the church village next to the Sports Park and a frisbee
UNSPOILED NATURE features a collection of ten artworks golf course and tennis courts along
Savitaipale, nestling on an esker in that blend into nature. the running trail starting beside the
the lakeland, is heaven for hikers. astroturf pitch.
The area is criss-crossed by hiking Some of the hiking trails can be ac-
trails ranging from the child-friend- cessed by mountain bike, and there Savitaipale thus has plenty to offer
ly and obstacle-free to the seriously are some steep challenges for bikers. in both indoor and outdoor sports.
challenging. Eskers, dells and vary- The clear waters of Kuolimo lake can At the Sports Park, you can indulge
ing vistas of forests and lakes show also be navigated by canoe, and there in floorball, futsal, tennis, basket-
the environment of South Karelia at are several sites where you can make ball, ice hockey, curling, football
its finest, in varying shades across landfall for a picnic, for instance. Ku- and frisbee golf. You can also sweat
the seasons. olimo is also a destination in winter: it out in the long jump or other track
a 5-km tour skating track is cleared events, or by jogging or skiing along
From the church village or from the on the ice of the lake when ice condi- the running trail in the undulating
public beach at Lepänkanto, hikers tions allow. landscape
may follow the terrain sculpted by
the Ice Age on foot or on mountain SWEAT IT OUT Thanks to its wide range of activi-
bikes. Beyond Partakoski rapids you AT THE SPORTS PARK ties, the Sports Park has things to
can find the Orrainpolku trail, with In recent years, Savitaipale has in- do for people of all ages and can ca-
the Luotolahti outlook as its great vested considerably in diverse, ter to quite large groups. The Sports
culmination. The Säänjärvi trail high-quality sports facilities. The Park has great potential for practice
takes you around Valkjärvi lake, Sports Park on highway 13 includes a retreats too, since all the sports and
while the Kärnäkoski fortress trail multi-purpose hall, a gym building, exercise facilities are within a short
introduces you to the namesake for- an ice rink (with a curling pitch), an walk of each other, and the swim-
tress, an old mill and a barge port. Art astroturf pitch and a brand new ath- ming baths in the church village are
is also available to enjoy alongside letics field. There is an outdoor exer- also close at hand.
nature and history: the Raitala art cise complex in the yard of the school
26 A D V E N T U R E A N D S P O R T S H O L I D AY 27 A D V E N T U R E A N D S P O R T S H O L I D AYFun in the Summer activities
winter snow for all ages
THE DA RK SEASON BRINGS OU T THE INNER GLOWING LIGHTS. YOU’LL NEVER BE BORED ON THE SUMMER SHORES OF SAIMAA.
Enjoy fresh below-zero temperatures in the Lappeenranta and Imatra regions There has been no place for boredom on this latitude over years - there are
with cross-country and down-hill skiing, ice fishing, ice skating, floating or ad- plenty of activities for every day.
venture seeking.
MYLLYSAARI, BOWLING
DRY-SUIT FLOATING Arena at the Holiday Club Saimaa there are separate sessions for men LAPPEENRANTA STRIKE! Bring some playful com-
Imagine lying on your back with ice Spa and the Imatra Spa Arena in the and women. If you are in Imatra, you Myllysaari Family Park features ac- petition to your family holiday at
floating round you and the frost nip- Ukonniemi area. can try winter swimming in Var- tivities such as a playground, football the bowling alleys of Holiday Club
ping at your cheeks. pasaari. fields and a parkour course. There Saimaa and Imatra Spa.
ICE FISHING AND HIKING ON is also a beach, diving towers and a
Dry-suit floating can be practised THE ICE ICE HOCKEY MATCHES beach café, all awaiting visitors. FISHING
all year round, as the dry suit keeps It is worth trying fishing in winter, Feel the atmosphere hit the roof when Vuoksi Fishing Park offers activities
you dry and allows you to wear warm as ice fishing is a very meditative ex- Lappeenranta plays a home game. LAPPEENRANTA SANDCASTLE such as guided fishing trips and fish-
clothes underneath. Tuplakasi Oy of- perience. Try your luck at the Vuok- The team plays in the Finnish Elite Sandcastle is packed with activities ing equipment rental. There is also a
fers dry-suit floating in Lake Saimaa si Fishing Park or local waterways League, and the audience comes from throughout the summer. salmon pool and smokehouse, restau-
and in Vuoksi River in Imatra; get where fish can be caught from the all over South Karelia to cheer them rant, sauna and a camping and cara-
carried away with the stream. wild waters. You can go trolling in on. CHILDREN’S TRAFFIC PARK van site.
the middle of the town all year round. This is a classic summertime favour-
SKIING AND SKATING You’re more likely to catch some- Imatra’s Ketterä plays in the Mes- ite of families with children. Little
Everyone can find a suitable track thing with the help of a local fishing tis league, and you can see it play its ones can practice their driving skills
from the hundreds of kilometres of guide, who can also customise your home games at the Imatra Spa Arena on pedal cars in the traffic park.
ski tracks. The first-snow track at- trip according to your requirements. in Ukonniemi.
tracts skiers to Imatra’s Ukonniemi Walking on Saimaa’s ice in the winter
every year. Go tour skating and dis- is also a worthwhile experience and
cover the beautiful island scenery very popular among the local people.
with fresh eyes. There are also a
number of free skating rinks and ice WINTER SWIMMING
hockey rinks in the area. If you pre-
fer to skate indoors, head for the Lap-
Fancy a dip in a hole in the ice? The
lakeside sauna on Lappeenranta’s
Saipa
peenranta UK Arena, Holiday Club Myllysaari is one of the places to go; www.saipa.fi
gosaimaa.com
28 A D V E N T U R E A N D S P O R T S H O L I D AY 29 A D V E N T U R E A N D S P O R T S H O L I D AYLet’s Play!
The Sandcastle has charmed visitors will see the historical Garrison on In the summer, you can take a
more than 17 times, during the years, Dragoon Hill and Lappeenranta For- combined canoeing-floating sau-
since 2004. Themes have changed tress, you will move to the Myllysaari na or cycling-floating sauna tour
every year and millions kilos of sand family park and beach area. from the Sandcastle, or go on a
are used to carve this magnificent fishing excursion. The stunning
sandcastle. A cozy oasis for the whole The City Tourist Information office Saimaa Geopark sites are included
family will be increased for next also operates in the Sandcastle area, in the new canoeing locations, you
summer, with a new pop-up theme where you can get brochures, maps, should first explore the Geopark sites
park complex with bouncing castles. current information about places to at the Saimaarium Nature and Sci-
The Sandcastle in 2021 will be more visit, events and activity opportuni- ence Center, next to the Sand Castle.
active than ever, and it will be build ties in Lappeenranta region.
around a diverse world of games and You can also use a city bike and ex-
playing. The Sandcastle is also the The Sandcastle area will offer more plore Lappeenranta, one of the Eu-
starting point and terminus of the extensive equipment rental. The rope´s greenest city!
street train, you may hop aboard rental equipment includes basic hik-
from the corner of the shopping mall ing gear that gives tourists more op-
IsoKristiina. By train, you can con- portunities to visit the archipelago
veniently travel through the city, you and stay overnight in nature.
E N J O Y T H E H I S T O R Y A N D C U LT U R E I N
LAPPEENRANTA
In summer 2021 the Sandcastle is open 5 June – 29 August, daily 10-21
30 C I T Y H O L I D AY 31 C I T Y H O L I D AYOriginal Sokos Hotel Lappee
CITY VACATION WITH GREAT POTENTIAL AT THE BUSIEST SHOP
PING CENTRE IN LAPPEENRANTA!
YOUR SAIMAA ADVENTURE five conference rooms with modern ENVIRONMENTAL RESPON-
BEGINS IN LAPPEENRANTA equipment, accommodating meet- SIBILITY AND RECREATION
Original Sokos Hotel Lappee is in ings with attendance of anything OPPORTUNITIES IN THE TOWN
the very heart of the town centre of
Lappeenranta, forming part of the
from 5 to 150. Thanks to our tech-
nology and our arrangement with
CENTRE
Original Sokos Hotel Lappee is a re-
Relax and enjoy!
IsoKristiina shopping centre. It is Kehruuhuone at the Fortress of Lap- sponsible tourism service provider
within walking distance of Lappeen- peenranta, hybrid meetings for an and, like other Sokos Hotels, has • 260 hotel rooms, 6 restau- • Plentiful Sokos Hotels Origi-
ranta railway station, exactly 1 km even larger crowd are possible. There been awarded the Green Key emblem rants, conference rooms nal breakfast in our renovat-
away. are also larger conference facilities in recognition of efforts to protect the accommodating 5 to 150 ed banquet suite
immediately adjacent to the hotel, for environment and to promote envi-
Hotel guests are offered a wide range instance at Lappeenranta Town Hall ronmentally sustainable travel. Our • Good connections to all ser- • Several partners for activi-
of services, including interesting next door. pet project is the Saimaa ringed seal vices ties nearby
shops and tantalising restaurants (WWF).
and cafés. The Finnkino Strand cin- EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY • IsoKristiina shopping centre: • Recreational opportunities
ema, the Sokos Hyvä Olo hair and In addition to the banquet suite, the There is recreation available in the cinema, municipal theatre in Lappeenranta, e.g. swim-
beauty salon, a gym and the Lappeen- range of restaurants at Original Sokos heart of the city, right from the hotel! and numerous shops ming baths and bowling alley
ranta Municipal Theatre are all un- Hotel Lappee includes the trusty Ros- Staff members can direct you to the nearby
der the same roof. so and VENN, an urban living room lively harbour area and to the histor- • Sokos Hyvä Olo hair and
for wine enthusiasts that is equally ic Fortress less than a kilometre away. beauty salon • Wide selection of other res-
Lappee provides accommodation in suitable for telecommuting in the In the summer, you can borrow a bi- taurants in the immediate
air-conditioned rooms, conference daytime and drinks in the evening. cycle from the hotel for exploration • Gym, pool and sauna for vicinity
rooms with modern equipment, a re- For those wishing a quick bite, we a bit further afield. There are also residents, all included in the
laxing sauna and leisure pursuits to have the celebrated vegetarian offer- recreational services for children price of your room
follow a business day! Our Superior ings of FAFA’S and also Hesburger. very near the hotel, such as the pop-
rooms, completely refurbished in Coffee House is a cosy place to pop in ular Traffic Park, Kimpinen Sports
2020 with a Saimaa theme, add a spe- while shopping, for coffee and some- Centre and the municipal swimming
cial little luxury to your stay! thing sweet. IsoKristiina has many baths and bowling alley. In the sum-
other cafés and restaurants to offer, mer, the hotel can also arrange tick-
ORGANISE AN EVENT TO from sushi to take-away smooth- ets for the links at Viipuri Golf, for
REMEMBER IN THE TOWN CEN- ies. Original Sokos Hotel Lappee can canal cruises on the M/S Camilla and
TRE OF LAPPEENRANTA book you a table at the popular steak- for the summer theatre.
The brand new Saga event restaurant house Angus Steak & Wine or at the
has a lot to offer! Renovated in sum- recently renewed, trendy Amarillo.
mer 2020, the restaurant is elegant, The best place for a late night on the
bright and well-lit and can seat up to town is the Las Palmas karaoke res-
230 for a buffet meal. The hotel has taurant!
32 C I T Y H O L I D AY 33 C I T Y H O L I D AYEvergreen Eventful
Lappeenranta Imatra
Meet the legendary Dragoons in a 16th-century for- Have you ever been to a concert hall made of ice? Are
tress, cruise the Saimaa archipelago or just enjoy the you fascinated by wild frothy rapids? Imatra offers
scenery on Finland’s longest beach boulevard. Welcome wonderful experiences throughout the year.
to experience Lappeenranta, one of the greenest city in
56. IMATRANAJO – IMATRA RAPIDS SHOWS 2021
Europe, EGLA 2021 winner, only 2 hours from Helsinki! INTERNATIONAL ROAD RACE Finland’s oldest travel destination,
CHAMPIONSHIP the mighty Imatrankoski rapids, will
CHARMING RANTARAITTI, TRADITIONAL HORSE RIDERS On 3-5 July, Imatra will again host again gush unharnessed in rapids
PAPPILANNIEMI AND (Wed-Sun at 11 am-4 pm, excl. rainy this spectactular national event shows.
HALKOSAARI days) Travel back one hundred years, when bikes race on a circuit near the
You can get acquainted with the new when cavalry dressed in red trousers town centre. The first ever Road Race Detailed timetables and further in-
stunning sites of the Saimaa Geopark and so-called “skeleton” jackets ride Rock festival will be held on the same formation: Imatrankoski.fi
at the Saimaarium Nature and Sci- in Lappeenranta Fortress and the bay weekend in 2021.
ence Center, next to the Sandcastle, area in July. Traditional guided walking tours of
and start the conquest of Saimaa di- Imatranajo.fi the area around Imatrankoski rapids
rectly from our harbour. The beauti- The Old Town Days of the Fortress are and historic Kruununpuisto park.
ful Lakeside route Rantaraitti, runs celebrated annually in connection CULTURE HOUSE VIRTA
along the shores of Lake Saimaa, can with the birthday of the city of Lap- The versatile programme of the Cul- imatratours.fi
be reached right from the city center. peenranta August 6-7, 2021. The Old ture House Virta gives visitors un-
There are many ways to explore the Town Days is a happy and eventful forgettable experiences throughout SOUNDOME
lakeside route, a total of 14.8 kilo- weekend for the whole family at Lap- the year, with gigs, concerts, exhibi- A guaranteed unique sound experi-
meters and it’s suitable for people peenranta Fortress. tions and various performances. ence awaits you in a concert hall built
of all ages and levels of fitness. Pap- of ice and snow. Even the instruments
pilanniemi Nature Trail on the shore LIGHTS OF THE Check out the programme at: played in the concerts are made of
of Lake Saimaa, is a precious and HARBOUR EVENT kulttuuritalovirta.fi. ice. The ice has been taken from the
diverse coastal forest in southern Lights of the Harbour event end the Vuoksi river at the heart of the event
Saimaa, where you will find genuine summer at the end of August. Enjoy SAIMAA CYCLE TOUR area. Performances in Vuoksi Fishing
nature close to the city. The charm- the music, circus and dance perfor- A cycling event on 9–10 July, open Park in Imatra.
ing harbour area and Myllysaari of- mances and marvel at the beautiful to cycling enthusiasts of any level
fer numerous events, activities and lights and the fireworks. of skill and experience. The route Soundome.fi
refreshments for the whole family. runs through some of the world’s
You can take a dip to swim at Mylly- CHRISTMAS MARKET most beautiful lakeland scenery on a KEEPING UP APPEARANCES
saari beach or spend time relaxing at The atmospheric Christmas market bright summer night. Stage comedy at the Imatra Summer
the tip of Halkosaari in the middle of offers a program for the whole family. Theatre based on the popular British
the harbour. At the Christmas market, you can go saimaacycletour.com TV sitcom ‘Keeping up appearances’
shopping and follow an entertaining [Finnish: Pokka pitää], featuring hi-
THE SANDCASTLE program while enjoying the Christ- BLACK AND WHITE larious leading lady Hyacinth Bucket.
There will be a cosy oasis for the mas spirit. THEATRE FESTIVAL
whole family with a new pop-up Held from 27 to 31 July, the festi- Further information and timetables:
theme park complex with bouncing In the center of Lappeenranta, you val brings together professionals Teatteri-imatra.fi.
castles next summer. The Sandcastle can find the Oldest Wooden Town from around the world to perform
in 2021 will be more active than ever, Hall in Finland from 1829, which diverse international theatre with
and it will be built around a diverse has survived to this day. This mag- entertainment for everyone.
world of games and playing. The nificent building used to be the
Sandcastle is the starting point and heart of the city, and today serves Blackandwhitetheatre.net
terminus of the street train, but you as the city’s celebration and rep-
can also hop aboard from the corner resentation space. Next summer, in
of the shopping mall IsoKristiina. July, tourists will have the oppor-
tunity to visit the Town Hall on a
INTERNATIONAL GRAND guided tour. For more information
MARKET 1.-4.7.2021 on tours and timetables, contact
Lappeenranta Tourist Information
lappeenranta@gosaimaa.com
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