Explore Puumala Archipelago
One thousand islands,three thousand kilometres of shoreline.
Puumala, the archipelago municipality, is located on the lake Saimaa waterway in between Savonlinna and Lappeenranta. The area of outstanding natural beauty on the Lietvesi scenic route is one of Finland’s most frequently photographed lake landscapes. Stunning landscapes also surround the Puumalansalmi bridge and the scenic café at the top of the bridge tower.
Puumala lies in the heart of Lake Saimaa’s archipelago, where vast waters, forested islands and a lively harbour create one of Finland’s most iconic Lakeland settings. It is a popular summer destination known for relaxed lakeside living and rich experiences on and around the water, from boating and local flavours to nearby cultural sites such as ancient rock paintings.
Two resorts in Puumala stand out with their views over Lake Saimaa.
Pistohiekka Resort is set on a striking sandy ridge and beach landscape, offering cottage and holiday home accommodation in a unique natural setting. The resort features a summer-open restaurant and a panoramic sauna available by reservation, opening up wide views across Lake Saimaa’s shimmering waters.
Sahanlahti Resort is a family-run lakeside resort offering hotel and cottage accommodation in a historic sawmill setting. Two restaurants serve seasonal, locally sourced cuisine with stunning lake views, while the guest harbour brings a lively summer atmosphere. Dining at Restaurant Koskivahti highlights fresh, ethical ingredients and the craftsmanship behind every dish, and the experience is completed with an authentic Finnish sauna, and smoke sauna, by the lake.
Villas with unobstructed lake views: Sahanlahti Resort and Elsanranta Villas
At Elsanranta Villas, modern design meets the calm beauty of Lake Saimaa.
Product pageHotel Väentupa at Sahanlahti Resort
Enjoy a peaceful lakeside stay at Hotel Väentupa, offering comfortable rooms, scenic views, and easy access to sauna experiences at Sahanlahti Resort.
Product pageSahankylä Cottage at Sahanlahti Resort, Puumala
Enjoy a peaceful stay in traditional lakeside cottages at Sahanlahti Resort, with private kitchens, serene surroundings, and direct access to Lake Saimaa.
Product pageSavour the rich flavours of the Saimaa region at Sahanlahti Resort
Three high-quality restaurants invite you to enjoy unforgettable dining inspired by the surrounding lakes, forests, and fields. Each venue offers its own unique atmosphere, allowing you to discover your favourite way to experience local cuisine.
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Saimaa ringed seal is one of the rarest seals in the world, and it only lives in lake Saimaa. The environment in Puumala is ideal for over 20 seals living in the area.
Arto’s Ecoboat is the most seal-friendly boat in lake Saimaa, and it brings you on the waters of Saimaa seal during all summer. Ecoboat is very comfortable and weather-proof, the covered cabin keeps you warm, and it is great for photography. There is a daily departure trhough summer season from Puumala harbour.
Saimaa Ringed Seal safaris by electric boat
On a Saimaa ringed seal safari, you may spot one of the world’s most endangered seals.
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Spend a day immersed in the living traditions of Lake Saimaa an authentic Lakeland setting.
Okkola Holiday Cottages welcomes visitors to Niinisaari island in the heart of the Puumala archipelago. This family-run destination offers a warm introduction to local Saimaa life, where hosts Paula, her family and their dog Pomppu share their home and traditions in a relaxed island atmosphere.
A highlight of the day is the beloved Karelian pie workshop. This Eastern Finnish classic, with its rye crust and creamy rice filling, is baked in a traditional wood-fired oven and served with rich egg butter. More than a recipe, it represents generations of Saimaa food culture and everyday heritage.
Later, still warm from the oven, the pies can be enjoyed back at your lakeside cottage – perhaps on the terrace with a cup of coffee, surrounded by quiet forest and the calm waters of Saimaa.
Karelian Pie Workshop
In a Karelian pie workshop, you’ll learn how to bake traditional Finnish pies with a local guide, Paula.
Product pageRental cottages and villas at Okkola Holiday Cottages
Authentic Finnish cottages and villas on beautiful Niinisaari Island.
Product pageBlueberry rye-pie workshop
At Okkola’s Savolainen mustikkakukko (bilberry rye pie) workshop, you’ll learn the traditional craft of baking delicious rättänä pastries.
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Near Okkola, the open-air museum Liehtalanniemi Museum Farm offers a journey back in time. Set in a peaceful cove, the historic farm reveals what life was like in the early 20th-century archipelago, alongside the story of its last owner, Jalmari Reponen.
For a deeper hands-on experience, Hanhiniitty Smithy introduces traditional Finnish blacksmithing in a working forge surrounded by forest and lake scenery. Led by professional blacksmith Martti Malinen, participants can try forging techniques in a guided, hands-on workshop that celebrates slow craftsmanship and timeless skills.
Riimukivi Farm, located along Route 62 on the way towards Mikkeli, offers an atmospheric glimpse into 19th-century rural life. Visitors can meet the farm’s sheep, explore the Akanvakka Craft Shop inspired by Nordic nature and folklore, and enjoy traditional treats at the Summer Café. A cup of soot pot coffee brewed over an open fire and time spent relaxing under apple trees complete the experience.
Traditional Tastes of Old Savonia
Travel back in time to taste the traditional delicacies of the Savonia region
Product pageA rustic old-time café experience at Riimukivi Summer Café
A highlight of your visit is the delightful Riimukivi Summer Café, an experience in itself. Here, you can savour authentic Savonian delicacies prepared using local ingredients and time-honoured recipes, all served in a warm and nostalgic atmosphere, capturing the charm of the 19th century at Riimukivi Historical Farm.
Product pageDuration:
4 days
Best time to visit:
May–September
Location:
Mikkeli & Puumala, Lake Saimaa
Type:
Self-guided itinerary
Pace:
Flexible – travel at your own speed
Activities:
Heritage • Boat excursions • Nature • Local food
Highlights:
Archipelago scenery • Karelian pie workshop • Open air museums
Accommodation:
Lakeside cottages and villas
Booking:
Individual services booked directly with providers
Contact the tourist information of the region for tips and advice.
