A nature lover’s paradise or the most important destination for culture lovers? We say it all together! Savonlinna is located near the Kolovesi and Linnansaari National Parks in the center of Finland’s largest lake system and is home to the protected Saimaa seals, white-backed woodpecker and corncrake. It is one of the most interesting cities for nature lovers and outdoor recreation. One of the world’s most famous opera festivals takes place in Savonlinna every year: performances are held in an incredible medieval castle. Music lovers from all over the world have been coming here for almost 100 years.
Savonlinna sights
Savonlinna is a beautiful city situated on four islands between the lakes Haapavesi and Pihlajavesi. For many years it has been one of the most visited cities in Finland. Steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, Savonlinna has a lot to offer, whether you’re looking for a quiet escape from the bustle of the city – spend time and rejuvenate in the spa, enrich yourself with cultural and historical experiences – or do something more energetic, like cycling, hiking, kayaking, canoeing or even diving. In fact, there is so much to see and do here that many tourists return again and again!
Olavinlinna Castle is one of the best preserved medieval castles in Scandinavia. It houses two museums that present its history and a rich collection of traditional exhibits. Next to the museums are anchored three beautiful historic ships, Mikko, Salama and Savonlinna, each with their own exhibitions. The inner courtyard of the castle each year becomes the site of the world-famous Opera Festival, where throughout July each year, opera performances attract thousands of spectators and are among the best in the world.
Construction of Olavinlinna Castle began in 1475 on the then frontier between the Swedish and Russian territories of Finland. By 1639, Savonlinna was incorporated as a town by the grace of Earl Per Brahe the Younger. The town began to flourish in 1856 with the construction of the Saimaa Canal.
Savonlinna is ideal for cruises that depart from its busy harbor. You can choose a short tour around the castle or a much longer boat trip around the archipelago. The Lake Saimaa archipelago is also home to the rare Saimaa Seal, one of the endangered seal species. Less than 300 individuals of this beautiful animal have survived, most of them inhabiting lakes Pihlavesi, Haukivesi and Joutenvesi. The Savonlinna region is also home to two other protected species: the white-backed woodpecker and corncrake.
Fans of outdoor activities will be pleasantly surprised by the variety of choices. There are two national parks, Kolovesi and Linnansaari, which are great for hiking and biking in the heart of Finland’s largest lake system.
