Visit Lake Saimaa, the Mikkeli region

Lake Saimaa is also home to one of the world’s rarest mammals, the Saimaa ringed seal. Isolated from the sea thousands of years ago, it adapted uniquely to freshwater life and survives today only in this lake system. In summer, guided seal safaris offer a chance to observe these elusive animals resting on rocks or surfacing in quiet coves, accompanied by local guides who share stories of the lake’s natural heritage.

Don't miss the chance to spot this cuddly cutie – join a seal watching excursion!

Human presence around Lake Saimaa dates back thousands of years. Near Mikkeli, the Astuvansalmi Rock Paintings rise dramatically from the cliff face above the waterline. Created around 5,000 years ago, the ochre figures depict elk, boats and human forms, forming one of Northern Europe’s most significant prehistoric rock art sites.

Seen from the water, the rock formation itself resembles the profile of a sleeping face – a striking natural landmark often referred to as the “sleeping giant”. The site is best experienced by boat, which offers the best way to approach the cliffs and rock paintings from Lake Yövesi in their natural setting, revealing their full grandeur and atmosphere.

Food in the Mikkeli region follows the rhythm of nature. In late summer and autumn, the forests offer wild mushrooms, berries and herbs, while lakes provide fresh fish such as vendace – ingredients that have long shaped the local cuisine.

Throughout the region, chefs build their menus around seasonal ingredients, such as lake fish alongside wild herbs, forest harvests and local produce. Many restaurants are entitled to use the D.O. Saimaa designation label, a mark of origin that reflects purity, authenticity and quality of local food.

With around 50,000 cottages and lakeside saunas, the Mikkeli region is one of Finland’s most iconic cottage landscapes – a place where life naturally slows down. Here, days are shaped by time outdoors, and the essential Finnish ritual of sauna bathing is followed by a refreshing dip in the clear waters of Lake Saimaa.

Accommodation options range from modern lakeside villas and cosy cottages to boutique hotels and historic manor houses, many set directly on the shoreline where still waters, birdsong and morning mist define the start of the day.

Whether you’re looking for contemporary comfort, a traditional cottage escape or a secluded luxury retreat, Saimaa offers a wide choice of stays shaped by nature, space and tranquillity.

Culture also plays an important role in the Mikkeli region. Each summer, the internationlly renowned Mikkeli Music Festival brings word-class musicians and orchestras to the city. Concert evenings become part of the wider Saimaa experience, where world-class performances meet the calm rhythm of the lake landscape. The acoustics of Mikaeli concert hall and the intimacy of the setting create a unique connection between audience and orchestra.

Before and after the performances, the city’s harbour, market square, manor restaurants and lakeside evenings extend the cultural experience beyond the concert hall.