Camping and hiking

South Karelia has splendid nature trails that can be found using the online trail map service. The "Orraintaipale" trail is close to the "Kalastajan torppa", "Lokkero" and "Nuottakallio" cottages, while the "Saarajärvi" trail is close to the "Syväjärvi" and "Vasikkahaka" cottages. Read more..

The impressive 14-metre-high observation tower was built by local villagers and offers a splendid view over Lake Kuolimo.

Repovesi National Park is one of the most popular camping and hiking destinations in Finland. Its trails are also suitable for shorter one-day hikes.

"Anjan puisto" is a horticultural park in Mikkeli where visitors of all ages can see rare plants and exotic animals, such as peacocks and tame pigs.

Sports and exercise

International tennis stars such as Robin Söderling and Igor Andreev have played on the courts at Savitaipale.

You can enjoy skating and even curling at Savitaipale Arena.

In summertime local sports clubs organise fitness orienteering on Tuesdays.

Viipurin Golf in Lappeenranta offers golfers both an 18-hole and a 9-hole course.

At Ski Tornimäki in Mikkeli you can enjoy downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and sledding.

Well-groomed cross-country skiing trails can be found nearby our cottages in Suomenniemi, Ristiina and Savitaipale.
In wintertime the frozen lake in Suomenniemi is open daily for public skating.

Hunting

It is possible to go hunting for small game with local hunting clubs. If you are interested, let us know well in advance before your arrival.

Culture and history

The 5000-year-old Astuvansalmi rock paintings in Ristiina are the most extensive in the Nordic Countries and can be reached by boat from our cottages "Lokkero" and "Nuottakallio".

The historic Kärnäkoski fortress is situated near our "Kalastajan torppa" cottages in Partakoski.

Lyytikkälä farm in Suomenniemi is one of the best preserved estates in South Karelia.

The Fortress of Lappeenranta represents an important part of the cultural heritage of South Karelia.

Visitors can marvel at the power of the Imatra Rapids at special showings in summertime.

The renowned Salmela Art Centre in Mäntyharju presents high quality exhibitions throughout the summer.

Restaurants

Piilipuu in the centre of Savitaipale is one of the newest and best restaurants in the region. We warmly recommend!

Another great place for tasty food and pastries in Suomenniemi is Kiesilän kievari, situated along Route 13 in the village of Kiesilä.

Boating and fishing

Saimaa Fishing Travels offers guided fishing expeditions for groups.

Wilderness guide Kimmo Karjalainen can supply you with Indian canoes or kayaks. Paddling can also be enjoyed in nearby Suomijärvi, where Kimmo's paddling centre is based.

We rent small motorboats with 5-20 hp Yamaha engines to experienced boaters (see price list).

You can also catch plenty of fish on Lake Saimaa in wintertime by drilling a hole in the ice - try it!

Animals

You can enjoy horseback riding at Päivi's Stables in Mäntyharju.

Visitors of all ages can enjoy the animals at Anne's animal farm.

Amusement parks

For a real adrenalin rush, try bungee jumping or the human catapult at Xon Action Park in Mikkeli!

At Visulahti in Mikkeli you can enjoy the dinosaurs, museum cars, a wax cabinet and plenty more!

Tykkimäki in Kouvola promises excitement for visitors of all ages!

Spas

Imatra Spa is the biggest wellness centre in Eastern Finland.

The Rantakeidas swimming complex is situated in Rantakylä, Mikkeli.

Lappeenranta Spa in Lappeenranta harbour.

Regional tourism websites

Lappeenranta

Mikkeli