Experiences and Services in Lake Saimaa Region

Lake Saimaa, Finland's largest lake region, is renowned for its charming lakeside resorts, villas, cottages, traditional Finnish saunas, and exceptional local cuisine. Mikkeli, just two and a half hours from Helsinki, provides easy access to this beautiful region. Lake Saimaa is home to the rare Saimaa Ringed Seal and hosts world-class cultural events like Mikkeli Music Festival, set against a backdrop of ancient history and natural beauty.

Accommodation in Saimaa from lakeside cottages to manor stays and villas

The Saimaa region offers a versatile and high-quality range of accommodation, combining authentic nature experiences, tranquillity and warm hospitality. Options range from lakeside cottages, hotels and holiday villages to historic manor houses and atmospheric countryside stays.

In Mikkeli, comfortable hotels and serviced accommodation provide easy access and full services, while apartment hotels offer flexible, home-like stays with hotel comfort.

For more distinctive experiences, restored manor properties and boutique countryside estates bring character and a close connection to nature. At the premium end, design villas and exclusive lakeside properties offer high-end options for private groups and luxury stays.

Activities in summer

Summer in Saimaa combines lake adventures, cultural events and the easy rhythm of Finnish summer life. It's the time for enjoying long days on the water with sauna and swim, boat trips, kayaking and scenic cruises, including guided journeys to the ancient Astuvansalmi rock paintings or peaceful seal-watching cruises in search of the Saimaa ringed seal. Nature experiences range from forest hikes and cycling routes to guided foraging trips for berries and wild herbs. Summer is also filled with local life – lively markets and the renowned Mikkeli Music Festival bringing world-class performances to the region.

Activities in winter

Winter in Saimaa is best experienced from late December to early March, when snow-covered forests and frozen lakes create the setting for authentic Nordic experiences. The season combines outdoor adventure, seasonal traditions and distinctive lakeside stays.

Skiing, snowshoeing, winter hiking and fat biking lead through peaceful snowy landscapes, while snowmobile and electric snow scooter tours offer a more adventurous way to explore the frozen lake scenery. On the ice, winter swimming, ice fishing and dry-suit ice floating create unforgettable encounters with the northern winter.

Sauna, in its many forms, remains at the heart of the experience. Cosy lakeside cottages, historic manor houses and seasonal dining bring warmth and atmosphere to the season, while Christmas markets and festive culinary experiences add a touch of Nordic winter magic.

Culinary experiences

The Lake Saimaa region was awarded the title of Saimaa European Region of Gastronomy 2024 in recognition of its unique food culture, where pure northern ingredients meet local traditions and manor heritage. Saimaa’s food products were also the first in Finland to receive the D.O. Saimaa quality label, highlighting the region’s authentic local flavours and high-quality ingredients.

Fresh lake fish, wild berries, mushrooms and forest herbs form the heart of Saimaa’s cuisine. Local food experiences range from Karelian pie and blueberry “rättänä” baking workshops to lively markets filled with seasonal produce and handmade delicacies. The region’s signature dish, fried vendace, is served in market halls, harbours and restaurants across Saimaa.

One of the best-known dining experiences can be found at Tertin Kartano, where a festive table of more than 50 dishes highlights local ingredients and produce from the manor’s own garden.