- Finland
Lois Weeterings
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When most people think of winter in Finland, Lapland comes to mind. But during my trip, I discovered that southern Finland holds a hidden gem: Lake Saimaa, a vast frozen lake region that feels like a winter dream. Wrapped in snow and surrounded by forests and islands, it’s the perfect place to skate on natural ice, snowshoe across quiet islands, or e-bike through snowy trails. And after a day outdoors, nothing beats warming up in a traditional Finnish sauna. In this guide, I’m sharing my 7 favorite winter experiences around Lake Saimaa, from peaceful nature adventures to cozy local treats, to inspire your own trip.
Lake Saimaa in Finland: what exactly is it?
Lake Saimaa isn’t just a single lake, it’s a vast network of interconnected lakes in southern Finland, covering around 4,400 km² and boasting over 13,700 islands. During my time here, I was constantly surrounded by sparkling water, snow-covered forests, and tiny peninsulas, each offering a new, breathtaking view. Whether you’re exploring by foot, boat, or e-bike, the scenery never fails to impress, making Lake Saimaa a truly magical winter destination.
Finland is often called the land of a thousand lakes, but after a few days around Lake Saimaa, I quickly realized it could just as easily be called the land of a thousand forests. Nature isn’t just a backdrop here, i’s a central part of Finnish life and culture, especially in winter, when the snow-covered forests and frozen lakes invite you to slow down, explore, and truly connect with the outdoors.
What makes Lake Saimaa such an interesting winter destination is that it remains relatively undiscovered, yet offers incredible variety for exploration. You won’t find yourself near the Arctic Circle or spotting reindeer here, but instead, you’ll encounter charming small villages, cozy local cafés, and an authentic Finnish lifestyle that feels truly genuine. For me, this balance of calm, culture, and winter adventure is what makes a trip around Lake Saimaa surprisingly fun!
What to do around Lake Saimaa?
Planning a scenic winter trip around Lake Saimaa? Here are my favorite activities and experiences to enjoy in this stunning Finnish lake region.
1. Skating on natural ice at Lake Saimaa
When Lake Saimaa freezes in winter, it transforms into a true winter paradise. One of the most iconic Finnish winter activities here is ice skating on natural lakes. What surprised me most was how different it feels compared to back home. Wide, open, and incredibly serene. Even more special was watching the locals glide across the ice, elegantly wrapped in layers, fully embracing the cold and the joy of being outdoors.
Around Lake Saimaa, the ice skating experience is unique. Instead of the ice hockey skates I’m used to, you can rent Nordic skates, loose blades that attach to cross-country ski boots. You’ll also get special sticks to help you glide across the natural ice. It can take a little getting used to at first, but once you find your balance, skating on Lake Saimaa feels effortless and incredibly peaceful.
One of my favorite winter experiences around Lake Saimaa is the Punkaharju Torch Skating Event, held annually at Harjun Portti. In the late afternoon, you can skate a scenic 6-kilometer route through the snowy countryside, with the ice beautifully illuminated by candles and large wooden torches. At Harjun Portti, you can rent Nordic skates, e-bikes, and traditional Finnish kicksleds, making it easy to enjoy this unique Finnish winter activity.
2. Experience winter yoga on the frozen Lake Saimaa
Whenever I travel, I like to take a moment to reflect, and yoga is the perfect way to do that. Practicing yoga in the snow on frozen Lake Saimaa is, however, something you won’t easily find elsewhere. The quiet surroundings are incredibly soothing, and when the first rays of sunlight filter through the trees, the cold becomes almost manageable. It’s a peaceful, magical way to connect with Finnish winter nature.
Surprisingly, winter yoga on Lake Saimaa isn’t as cold as you might expect. Bundled up in ski pants, a windproof jacket, thermals, and a thick sweater, plus a scarf and gloves, you stay warm while practicing in the snow. Dressing in layers makes it easy to enjoy this unique Finnish winter experience without shivering.
Tanja from Yoga Saimaa leads yoga sessions in the heart of Finnish nature, including winter yoga on frozen Lake Saimaa. After a short walk through the snow-covered forest, we arrived at the lake’s edge, where she had her knitted wool socks ready, essential since you take off your moonboots. The yoga mat was set in a small snowbank, layered with two extra-thick rugs, creating a cozy spot to begin. Dropping onto the mat, it sank slightly into the snow, making the start of the class feel extra special. By the end, fully relaxed and refreshed, we finished with a warm cup of honey tea, the perfect way to warm up after this serene winter yoga experience.
3. Warm up in a Finnish sauna at Lake Saimaa
There’s truly nothing like a Finnish sauna after a day in the snow. In Finland, a sauna isn’t just a way to warm up, it’s almost sacred, a cherished ritual woven into daily life. Many Finns even have a sauna at home, which I must admit, I’m a little envious of. Experiencing this tradition firsthand around Lake Saimaa gives you a real taste of Finnish winter culture.
During my trip around Lake Saimaa, I stayed at several resorts where most rooms had their own private sauna, and I can’t recommend it enough. After a day in the crisp winter air, stepping into the warmth, pouring water over the hot stones, and letting the steam envelop you is pure bliss. Cooling off in the fresh air before returning to the sauna is a classic Finnish sauna ritual, and experiencing this heat-and-cold cycle firsthand makes the Finnish winter feel even more special.
Tip: choose accommodation with a private sauna, or at least a place with wellness facilities, because it truly completes your Lake Saimaa experience in my opinion.
4. Take a refreshing ice bath in Lake Saimaa
If you’re already impressed by Finnish sauna culture, you might be amazed to know that many locals also take a dip in icy water as part of the experience. Alternating between the heat of the sauna and the ice-cold lake is a traditional practice in Finland, celebrated for its invigorating effects on both body and mind.
For Finns, stepping into an ice-cold lake or even swimming laps in it seems completely natural, but for me, it was anything but. It was incredible to watch the locals embrace this winter ritual. The moment I stepped into the icy water, my whole body jolted, and I had to focus completely on my breathing. I probably lasted no more than 30 seconds, but the feeling afterward was indescribable. Euphoric, refreshing, and strangely empowering, as if I could take on the world. If you want to try it yourself, don’t forget a warm hat, since a lot of heat escapes through your head!
5. Ride a snowmobile-drawn sled to Linnansaari Island
The great thing about taking a trip around Lake Saimaa is that you get to visit many different places. One of the places I stayed at is Kanava Resort in Oravi. You’ll find beautiful cottages located right on the lake, and from this special spot, you can enjoy a really exciting activity.
In Oravi, you can hop into a sled pulled by a snowmobile for an unforgettable ride across the frozen Lake Saimaa. Braving wind and snow (in my case, a full snow shower!), you glide over the vast icy expanse toward Linnansaari Island, with breathtaking views of the frozen lake dotted with small islands. Once you arrive, you can warm up by an outdoor fireplace, soaking in the serene winter landscape.
Next, we strapped on our snowshoes for a hike around Linnansaari Island. You can follow forest trails, explore pristine snow-covered woods, and even cross parts of the frozen lake. The snowshoes provide extra grip, making each step more stable and lighter. My favorite part? Plowing through thick snowdrifts and feeling completely surrounded by the peaceful winter landscape.
After returning from the hike, it’s time to enjoy a traditional Finnish sausage, or makkara. The fun part is grilling it yourself, just skewer the sausage on a stick and hold it over the open fire. Locals rarely venture out into the snowy meadows without a pack of sausages in their backpack, ready to grill along the way. It’s such a fun and authentic Finnish winter experience!
No trip to Linnansaari Island is complete without stopping for fresh waffles at a small, cozy café. After enjoying this sweet treat, it’s time to hop back into the snowmobile sled and glide across the frozen lake on the return journey to Oravi.
6. Visit the Finnish Forest Museum Lusto
If you want to understand why nature is such an important part of Finnish life, a visit to the Finnish Forest Museum Lusto is a must. During my trip, I was struck by how deeply Finns are connected to their forests. Nature influences everything from relaxation and work to cultural identity. At Lusto, you can explore the history of Finnish forests and see how they have shaped the country and its people for generations, from traditional forestry and wood processing to the old ways of living in harmony with the forest.
Near the museum, you’ll find the Kuhankeittäjä Restaurant, a great spot to enjoy local Finnish cuisine. The buffet offers a variety of dishes, so you can fill your plate with as many delicious options as you like, all while taking in the stunning winter landscape from the restaurant’s cozy dining area.
Tip: Not far from the museum, you’ll discover what I consider one of the most beautiful parts of Lake Saimaa: the Punkaharju Scenic Ridge Road, a stunning winter landscape perfect for a scenic drive or peaceful walk.
7. E-biking through the snow to an Alpaca Farm
From Järvisydän Resort, I took one of the most surprising trips of my stay: e-biking through the snow to an alpaca farm. The resort, located in Rantasalmi on Lake Saimaa, is surrounded by rugged, hilly terrain, perfect for exploring by bike. Not just any bike, though: we used e-bikes with wide tires to maintain grip on the snow. I initially thought, “This will be easy,” but navigating snowy trails requires focus and a slightly different technique. That challenge is exactly what makes it so fun and memorable!
Along the way, you’ll cycle through a stunning winter landscape to Metsäkahvilan Alpakat, a cozy little spot where you can watch six irresistibly cute alpacas enjoying the snow. In summer, the farm offers a variety of outdoor activities, but in winter, it’s all about soaking up the charm of these special animals. Inside the small café, you can warm up with a snack or drink. My recommendation is a hot glass of kuusenkerkkä-mustikka-inkivääri or, simply called, a cup of glögi (Finnish mulled wine).
The best places to stay near Lake Saimaa
Around the frozen Lake Saima you will find the most beautiful resorts, all with their very own atmosphere. So you sleep at Harjun Portti in typical Finnish red wooden waterfront cottages, while Kanava Resort precisely excels in luxurious, modern cottages with lake views from both your bedroom and sauna. Pihlas Resort located in the middle of nature is perfect if you are looking for peace, design and a private sauna, and at Järvisydän you can spend the night in a wooden cabin with a panoramic roof, where you can look at the stars from your bed. These are all special places that will make your trip around Lake Saimaa extra special. In the article the most beautiful resorts around Lake Saima I explain these resorts in more detail so you can easily discover which one best suits your trip.
Top local restaurants around Lake Saimaa
Around Lake Saimaa, it’s not just about nature and winter activities. Good food is a big part of the experience too. If you want to truly get to know the region, it’s worth dining at places where local flavors and Finnish hospitality come together. From enjoying a warm waffle in a cozy café to indulging in a sumptuous dinner with views over the snow-covered winter landscape, these are some of my top restaurant recommendations around Lake Saimaa.
1. Enjoy waffles at Kruunupuisto
One of my favorite spots to warm up was Kruunupuisto, especially after skating several kilometers during the Punkaharju Torch Skating Event. With temperatures well below zero outside, stepping inside to enjoy a hot chocolate and freshly made waffles was pure comfort. Despite the cold outside, I still opted for a table with strawberry jam and ice cream, perhaps not what you first expect on a freezing winter day, but still delicious!
Nice winter tip: when the ice is well frozen, you can even skate here, just like many locals do. Be sure to reserve a table in advance, as this is clearly a popular spot.
2. Have a tea moment at TeaHouse of Wehmais, Lake Saimaa
When traveling around Lake Saimaa, you’ll sometimes need to cover a bit of distance to reach your next stop, but along the way, you’ll come across special places like TeaHouse of Wehmais. The teahouse is set on an old farm in Juva, an idyllic spot that comes even more to life in summer with sheep roaming the grounds, but is now mainly known as a charming and atmospheric teahouse. Inside, everything revolves around tea. You can choose from over a hundred varieties, sample different flavors, and of course take some home from the little shop. It’s also a well-known stop among locals when traveling through their own country, a place many Finns return to year after year. If you have the time, go for the afternoon tea, where many of the dishes are infused with tea flavors. Everything was incredibly delicious, but the cheese scones in particular really stood out to me. Honestly, I’d happily make a detour just for those!
3. Fine dining at Restaurant Siimes
Restaurant Siimes is the restaurant of Pihlas Resort, beautifully set in the heart of nature along Lake Saimaa. Thanks to its remote location, the atmosphere here is incredibly peaceful from the moment you arrive. The restaurant is mainly visited by guests staying at the resort, which creates a calm and intimate setting that I personally really appreciated. The kitchen focuses on local ingredients and fresh herbs from the surrounding area, and you can truly taste that in every dish. Everything feels pure, carefully prepared and well-balanced, with flavors that genuinely surprised me in a positive way. You can opt for wine pairings to complement your meal, which makes the experience even more special. Another great thing is that you don’t necessarily have to stay overnight to dine here, as Restaurant Siimes is also open to non-resident guests.
4. A culinary evening at Restaurant Solitary
The best restaurant I dined at during this trip was without a doubt Restaurant Solitary in Rantasalmi. An evening here doesn’t feel like just going out for dinner, it truly feels like a culinary experience you’ll want to take your time for. Don’t expect a quick meal, but rather a relaxed evening where everything revolves around flavor, attention to detail and a sense of surprise. You can opt for a five-course surprise menu, preferably paired with matching wines. Just like in many places around Lake Saimaa, local ingredients and fresh products take center stage here, but the dishes are presented in a refined and creative way. Everything simply comes together perfectly: the atmosphere, the pacing of the evening and the quality of each dish. If you’re looking for a special place around Lake Saimaa for a memorable night out, Restaurant Solitary is one you’ll definitely want to add to your list.
Practical tips for a trip to Southern Finland
A trip to Southern Finland requires a slightly different kind of preparation than your typical winter sports holiday. Since you come here for the peaceful nature, frozen lakes, sauna culture and unique winter activities, it’s good to keep a few things in mind before you go.
1. Dress in layers and don’t underestimate the cold
Even if you’re used to cold winter weather, the temperatures in Finland can feel very different. Especially when you spend a lot of time outdoors doing activities like ice skating, e-biking or even ice swimming, proper layering is essential. Make sure to pack thermal clothing, a warm hat, gloves and sturdy shoes with good grip. Staying warm and comfortable will make your experience around Lake Saimaa so much more enjoyable.
2. Choose accommodations in Southern Finland with a sauna or wellness facilities
I’ve already shared some of my favorite places to stay, but I can’t stress this enough: there’s truly nothing better than returning to your accommodation with a sauna after a day outdoors in the cold. In Finland, this is very much part of the culture, so finding a place with a private sauna or wellness facilities is usually not difficult. And trust me, it will make your winter trip around Lake Saimaa even more special.
3. Don’t overpack your itinerary in Southern Finland
One of the greatest things about Southern Finland is its peace and tranquility. My advice? Don’t try to cram too many destinations into a short trip. Give yourself the time to linger in one place, enjoy a leisurely winter walk, savor a long meal, or spontaneously relax in the sauna. This is what truly allows you to experience the charm of Lake Saimaa in winter.
4. Get inspired and choose a trip that suits you
I took this trip with Voigt Travel to get a closer look at their winter travel options in Finland, and it gave me a great insight into just how versatile Southern Finland in winter can be. If you’re looking for inspiration, it’s definitely worth checking out Voigt Travel’s winter trips. At the same time, this is exactly the kind of trip where you notice how much personalized advice can make a difference. If you want a winter trip to Finland that truly matches your wishes, we can, of course, organize such a trip for you in collaboration with Voigt Travel.
More Finland travel inspiration
If you’re still exploring ideas for Finland, it’s worth checking out our other articles as well. For example, we previously wrote aboutWinter in Levi & Ylläs: the ultimate Lapland experience full of wellness, snow and unique activities‘ and also discover the magical region of Lakeland in Finland. Together, these articles provide a comprehensive view of Finland’s versatility, showcasing the country’s charm in both winter and autumn.
Take a winter trip to Southern Finland
Want to experience Lake Saimaa and Southern Finland in winter for yourself but feel overwhelmed by all the possibilities? We completely understand. In this region, having a well-planned itinerary really makes all the difference. We can help you create a personalized winter trip tailored to your wishes, pace, and budget. Think unique accommodations, cozy saunas, local restaurants, and unforgettable winter activities, all the elements that make your Lake Saimaa adventure truly special.
Lois Weeterings
A dreamer and adventure seeker, always on the lookout for new experiences. But also a hard worker with a thousand ideas racing through my mind. As a personal travel consultant and travel blogger, I share my passion for faraway destinations, thrilling adventures, and winter sports. With deep knowledge of places like Namibia, Colombia, the ABC Islands, and the Middle East, I’m here to help you craft a trip you’ll never forget. Through my personal stories and expert tips, I aim to inspire you to explore the world your way. Always with my camera in hand, I’m determined to capture every magical moment and share it with you.
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