Saimaa, Freshwater lake in Northern Savonia, Finland
Description
Saimaa is a large freshwater lake that spreads across southeastern Finland, with countless islands and waterways creating a complex network of bays and passages. The water is surrounded by forests and dotted with small towns and villages along its shores.
History
The water body formed thousands of years ago as glacial ice retreated at the end of the last Ice Age, leaving behind massive amounts of meltwater. This geological process created the complex landscape of islands and channels that exists today.
Culture
Towns around the lake, such as Lappeenranta and Savonlinna, show how fishing and boat life remain part of local identity. You can see traditional wooden buildings and harbors that reflect how water shaped the way people here have lived for centuries.
Practical
The lake can be reached from several shore towns, and there are various ways to explore the water, from driving to taking boat trips. Summer is the best season to visit when the water is ice-free and the weather is mild.
Did you know?
These waters are home to a rare seal species found nowhere else in the world in freshwater form. The animals are highly adapted to this specific environment and remind visitors of the lake's ecological importance.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (North Savo).
Europe contains numerous lakes distinguished by their natural beauty and relative seclusion. From the turquoise waters of the Dolomites to the clear lakes of the Scottish Highlands, these locations span various geological formations. These lakes lie within alpine regions, volcanic areas, or historic...
Olavinlinna Castle
76.5 km
New Valamo
148.9 km
Kerimäki Church
91.9 km
Kummakivi
28.7 km
Imatrankoski
29.4 km
Lintula Holy Trinity Convent
148.2 km
Astuvansalmi rock paintings
43.4 km
Yastrebinoye Lake
78.3 km
Visulahti
69.6 km
Varkaus Paper Mills
120.3 km
Hotel Punkaharju
83.1 km
Vekaransalmi bridge
56 km
Parikkala Sculpture Park
70.7 km
Fortress of Lappeenranta
20.8 km
Rauhalinna
80.1 km
Pihlajavesi
68.1 km
Kärnäkoski Fortress
28.9 km
Mikkeli Cathedral
71.6 km
Punkaharju
82.9 km
Joensuu Church
169.1 km
Kotalahti Mine
151.8 km
Suvorov military canals
10 km
Taipale canal
118.6 km
Puumalansalmi Bridge
30.2 km
Svetogorsk Hydroelectric power plant
35.5 km
Ruokolahti Church
31.3 km
Brahelinna
59 km
Kolovesi National Park
116.1 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes