Sulkava

A small lakeside town famous for the annual rowing marathon on Lake Saimaa, attracting participants from around the world. The town embodies the Finnish tradition of water sports and offers a genuine local experience amid natural beauty.

Things to do

• Sulkava Rowing Marathon — Participate in or spectate the famous annual 60 km rowing marathon held on Lake Saimaa every July, where teams of rowers compete in traditional wooden boats.
• Lake Saimaa Boating — Rent a boat or join guided tours on Europe's largest lake system to explore islands, bays, and enjoy water-based activities.
• Sulkava Church — Visit the wooden church built in 1853, a notable example of Finnish rural architecture with a peaceful lakeside setting.
• Forest and Nature Walks — Explore the surrounding boreal forest with marked trails offering views of typical Finnish wilderness and Saimaa shoreline.
• Local Sauna Culture — Experience a traditional Finnish sauna, either public or privately rented, often followed by a cooling dip in Lake Saimaa.
• Saimaa Seal Watching — Take guided boat tours to spot the endangered Saimaa ringed seal, endemic to this lake system and a symbol of the region.

Food to try

• Saimaa Whitefish — Fresh local whitefish (siika) caught from Lake Saimaa, typically prepared grilled or smoked and served with potatoes and dill.
• Karelian Pasties — Traditional pastries with rye crust filled with rice porridge, originating from nearby Karelia and served with a warm egg-butter spread.
• Pike-Perch (Kuha) — The prized local freshwater fish prepared simply pan-fried or baked to highlight its delicate, sweet flavor.
• Reindeer Stew — A hearty regional specialty featuring slow-cooked reindeer meat with lingonberries and served with creamy mashed potatoes.
• Rye Bread and Local Butter — Dark, dense Finnish rye bread served warm with creamy local butter, reflecting centuries of Finnish baking tradition.

Local customs & good to know

• Rowing Heritage Respect — The rowing marathon is central to Sulkava's identity; visiting during July shows respect for this tradition and offers authentic local experience with residents.
• Sauna Etiquette — Finns take sauna seriously as both health practice and social space; arrive without expectations and follow the relaxed pace of local custom.
• Quiet Appreciation of Nature — Finnish culture values sisu (quiet strength) and respect for nature; visitors are expected to move thoughtfully through forests and respect the pristine environment.
• Seasonal Awareness — Winter transforms the region dramatically with frozen lakes and possible northern lights, while summer brings midnight sun; plan visits with seasonal activities in mind.