{"id":81213,"date":"2026-03-25T10:16:39","date_gmt":"2026-03-25T09:16:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/travander.nl\/?p=81213"},"modified":"2026-09-14T16:43:34","modified_gmt":"2026-09-14T14:43:34","slug":"tips-what-to-do-saimaa-lake-finland","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/travander.nl\/en\/tips-wat-doen-saimaameer-finland\/","title":{"rendered":"Lake Saimaa in Winter: 7 Amazing Experiences and Activities in Southern Finland"},"content":{"rendered":"
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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\u2019s 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\u2019m sharing my 7 favorite winter experiences around Lake Saimaa, from peaceful nature adventures to cozy local treats, to inspire your own trip.<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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When the sun shines through the trees....<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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A vast and frozen winter landscape<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t
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Lake Saimaa in Finland: what exactly is it?<\/h2>

Lake Saimaa isn\u2019t just a single lake, it\u2019s a vast network of interconnected lakes in southern Finland, covering around 4,400 km\u00b2 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\u2019re exploring by foot, boat, or e-bike, the scenery never fails to impress, making Lake Saimaa a truly magical winter destination.<\/p>

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\u2019t just a backdrop here, i\u2019s 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.\u00a0<\/p>

What makes Lake Saimaa such an interesting winter destination is that it remains relatively undiscovered, yet offers incredible variety for exploration. You won\u2019t find yourself near the Arctic Circle or spotting reindeer here, but instead, you\u2019ll encounter charming small villages, cozy local caf\u00e9s, 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!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Enjoying a winter trip to Finland<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Punkaharju Scenic Ridge Road<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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A beautiful winter landscape<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t
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What to do around Lake Saimaa?<\/h2>

Planning a scenic winter trip around Lake Saimaa? Here are my favorite activities and experiences to enjoy in this stunning Finnish lake region.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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1. Skating on natural ice at Lake Saimaa<\/h3>

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.<\/p>

Around Lake Saimaa, the ice skating experience is unique. Instead of the ice hockey skates I\u2019m used to, you can rent Nordic skates, loose blades that attach to cross-country ski boots. You\u2019ll 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.<\/p>

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.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Skating on natural ice<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Part of the skating rink at the Punkaharju Torch Skating Event<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t
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2. Experience winter yoga on the frozen Lake Saimaa<\/h3>

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\u2019t 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\u2019s a peaceful, magical way to connect with Finnish winter nature.<\/p>

Surprisingly, winter yoga on Lake Saimaa isn\u2019t 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.<\/p>

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\u2019s 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.\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Yoga mats in the snow<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Warm up with a cup of hot honey tea<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t
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3. Warm up in a Finnish sauna at Lake Saimaa<\/h3>

There\u2019s truly nothing like a Finnish sauna after a day in the snow. In Finland, a sauna isn\u2019t just a way to warm up, it\u2019s almost sacred, a cherished ritual woven into daily life. Many Finns even have a sauna at home, which I must admit, I\u2019m a little envious of. Experiencing this tradition firsthand around Lake Saimaa gives you a real taste of Finnish winter culture.\u00a0<\/p>

During my trip around Lake Saimaa, I stayed at several resorts where most rooms had their own private sauna, and I can\u2019t 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.<\/p>

Tip<\/strong>: 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.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Cooling off in the fresh air after the sauna<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Private sauna in your cottage at Kanava Resort<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t
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4. Take a refreshing ice bath in Lake Saimaa<\/h3>

If you\u2019re 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.<\/p>

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\u2019t forget a warm hat, since a lot of heat escapes through your head!<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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The frozen ice lake at Kanava Resort<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Dipping into an ice-cold lake at Lake Saimaa<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t
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5. Ride a snowmobile-drawn sled to Linnansaari Island<\/h3>

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<\/a><\/strong> in Oravi. You\u2019ll find beautiful cottages located right on the lake, and from this special spot, you can enjoy a really exciting activity.<\/p>

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.\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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The snowmobile-drawn sled<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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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.<\/p>

After returning from the hike, it\u2019s 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\u2019s such a fun and authentic Finnish winter experience!\u00a0<\/p>

No trip to Linnansaari Island is complete without stopping for fresh waffles at a small, cozy caf\u00e9. After enjoying this sweet treat, it\u2019s time to hop back into the snowmobile sled and glide across the frozen lake on the return journey to Oravi.\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Grilling a makarra over the fire<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Snowshoeing across Linnansaari<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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6. Visit the Finnish Forest Museum Lusto<\/h3>

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.\u00a0<\/p>

Near the museum, you\u2019ll find the Kuhankeitt\u00e4j\u00e4 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\u2019s cozy dining area.<\/p>

Tip<\/strong>: Not far from the museum, you\u2019ll 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.\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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The Finnish Forest Museum Lusto<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Lunch overlooking Lake Saimaa<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Finnish lunch buffet at Kuhankeitt\u00e4j\u00e4<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t
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7. E-biking through the snow to an Alpaca Farm\u00a0<\/h3>

From J\u00e4rvisyd\u00e4n 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, \u201cThis will be easy,\u201d but navigating snowy trails requires focus and a slightly different technique. That challenge is exactly what makes it so fun and memorable!\u00a0<\/p>

Along the way, you\u2019ll cycle through a stunning winter landscape to Mets\u00e4kahvilan 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\u2019s all about soaking up the charm of these special animals. Inside the small caf\u00e9, you can warm up with a snack or drink. My recommendation is a hot glass of kuusenkerkk\u00e4-mustikka-inkiv\u00e4\u00e4ri or, simply called, a cup of gl\u00f6gi (Finnish mulled wine).<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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E-biking through the snow<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Mets\u00e4kahvilan Alpakat<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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One of the cute alpacas in the snow<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t
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The best places to stay near Lake Saimaa<\/h2>

Around the frozen Lake Saima you will find the most beautiful resorts, all with their very own atmosphere. So you sleep at Harjun Portti<\/a><\/strong> in typical Finnish red wooden waterfront cottages, while Kanava Resort<\/strong><\/a> precisely excels in luxurious, modern cottages with lake views from both your bedroom and sauna. Pihlas Resort <\/a><\/strong>located in the middle of nature is perfect if you are looking for peace, design and a private sauna, and at J\u00e4rvisyd\u00e4n<\/strong><\/a> 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<\/a><\/strong> I explain these resorts in more detail so you can easily discover which one best suits your trip.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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