This European Hidden Treasure Boasts 120 Dazzling Blue Lakes and 14,000 Islands — A Local Favorite

Finland is famous for its sauna culture, Lapland, and the northern lights, but it also holds a world record for the longest lake coastline. Nestled in southeastern Finland is Lake Saimaa, the country's largest lake and the fourth-largest freshwater lake in Europe. The area is home to 120 blue lakes, about 14,000 islands, and over 9,000 miles of stunning shoreline.

Although it may be lesser-known to international travelers, locals adore this region. Every July, Finns escape to their lakeside cottages for a peaceful retreat in nature.

"The Lake Saimaa region is a beloved summer escape for Finns, with approximately 70,000 summer cottages (mökki in Finnish) dotting the area," said Maisa Häkkinen, tourism director for Visit Mikkeli, in an interview with Dinogo. (Mikkeli is located in the Lake Saimaa region.) "Most Finns head to their cottages on weekends and during the summer, enjoying sauna sessions, swimming, outdoor activities, and embracing local life, including festivals, markets, and great food. Saimaa stands as Finland's top destination for cottages."

For those traveling from Helsinki, the Lake Saimaa region is a few hours by car, depending on the exact destination. Savonlinna, a top spot in the area, is just under four hours away. (Locals from Helsinki can break the journey with a stop at Tertti Manor in Mikkeli, known for its beautiful grounds, overnight stays, an epic buffet, and a lovable hunting dog that might just steal the show.) Alternatively, there’s a 65-minute flight from Helsinki Airport (HEL) to Savonlinna Airport (SVL).

In summer, Savonlinna hosts an iconic opera festival at Olavinlinna, a stunning 15th-century castle. Nature enthusiasts can swim in Lake Saimaa, explore forests full of berries and mushrooms, join a tour to spot the endangered Saimaa ringed seal, or enjoy activities like canoeing, cycling, hiking, and fishing. Häkkinen also recommends visiting Linnansaari National Park, Kolovesi National Park, or Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark to fully experience the area's natural beauty.

"Although quieter, winter is still a special time to visit," said Häkkinen. "Winter cottage holidays are a favorite among Finns, filled with hearty meals, walks, skating, skiing on frozen lakes, stargazing, and even ice saunas." She highlighted popular cold-weather activities like cross-country skiing, ice swimming, winter hiking, fishing, and snow scooter rides in Puumala.

For a night’s stay, luxury options include Sahanlahti Resort in Puumala, Kuru Resort in Rantasalmi, and Pihlas Resort in Kaitainen. Additionally, there are numerous cozy cottages and campsites available throughout the region.

Lake Saimaa was awarded the prestigious European Region of Gastronomy title for 2024 by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts, and Tourism (IGCAT). "The region was honored for its dedication to sustainably preserving and promoting local food and cultural heritage," said Diane Dodd, president of IGCAT. She highlighted Lake Saimaa's "slow tourism, fresh and natural food, pristine lake water that’s drinkable, and exceptional food experiences."

For a refined dining experience, Restaurant Solitary under chef Remi Trémouille is a top choice. The restaurant prides itself on a six-course tasting menu that celebrates local, seasonal ingredients. "We focus on the surrounding nature — fresh fish from Lake Saimaa, game, wild berries, mushrooms, and herbs from nearby forests," Trémouille told T+L. Currently, he’s particularly excited about their elderflower cotton candy dessert.

Local favorites include fried muikku, a freshwater fish, found on many menus. Also popular is lörtsy, a crescent-shaped pastry stuffed with meat or vegetables. Chef Trémouille recommends trying muikkukukko, a rye pastry filled with vendace and bacon, calling it a delicious must-try.

Diane Dodd emphasized how Lake Saimaa’s culinary traditions set it apart. "Traditional methods like smoking, pickling, and salting are commonly used to enhance the natural taste of fish. Smoked vendace, for example, is a beloved local specialty," she explained. "The food here is deeply connected to Finnish culture, uniting people, as seen when women gather to make traditional Karelian pies."