Lake Saimaa

Saimaa

Europe's largest natural freshwater lake system, offering spectacular scenery, wildlife watching opportunities, and water-based recreation throughout the region. The lake is home to the endangered Saimaa ringed seal and numerous islands perfect for boating, fishing, and summer cottage retreats.

Things to do

• Saimaa Ringed Seal Watching — Join guided boat tours from Lappeenranta or Savonlinna to spot the critically endangered Saimaa ringed seal in its natural habitat, best during early morning hours.
• Island Hopping by Boat — Rent a motorboat or join organized cruises to explore the lake's 188,000 islands, many featuring summer cottages, pine forests, and secluded swimming spots.
• Olavinlinna Castle Visit — Explore this 15th-century medieval castle on an island in Savonlinna, accessible by boat or bridge, offering guided tours and summer opera performances.
• Fishing Expeditions — Fish for pike, perch, and zander in designated areas with local guides who know the best seasonal spots and traditional Finnish fishing techniques.
• Kayaking Through Narrow Passages — Paddle through the lake's narrower channels and bays where motorboats cannot reach, offering intimate views of wildlife and unspoiled shorelines.
• Summer Cottage Experience — Rent a traditional Finnish lakeside cottage to experience local summer lifestyle with sauna, swimming, and long twilight evenings typical of the region.

Food to try

• Saimaa Fish Soup — A creamy soup made with freshly caught pike or perch from the lake, potatoes, and dill, served in local restaurants throughout Savonlinna and Lappeenranta.
• Vendace Roe (Muikku Mäti) — Delicate roe from the lake's small vendace fish, served on dark bread with butter as a traditional Finnish appetizer unique to Saimaa region.
• Grilled Pike-Perch (Kuha) — Fresh-caught pike-perch grilled with lemon and herbs, a regional specialty found at waterfront restaurants and summer cottage dinners around the lake.
• Karelian Pasties (Karjalanpiirakka) — Traditional rye pastries filled with rice or potato from the nearby Karelia region, sold at local bakeries and market squares in Savonlinna.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Cottage Privacy — Many islands have private summer cottages; always ask permission before landing and respect marked private property, as these are sacred personal spaces for Finnish families.
• Sauna Culture — Most accommodations include a sauna; it's customary to use it respectfully, typically in the evening, and swimsuits are optional in traditional practice.
• Midnight Sun Phenomenon — During summer months (June-July), the sun barely sets due to the northern latitude; plan outdoor activities accordingly and expect continuous twilight rather than darkness.
• Local Boat Etiquette — Wave to other boaters and fishermen as a sign of respect, and maintain slow speeds near swimming areas and narrow channels to protect wildlife and fellow visitors.