The Saimaa region has a unique culture and vibrant gastronomy scene. Photo: Visit Saimaa
Tent and Lake Saimaa. Photo: goSaimaa
Destination of the Month, Finland
Exploring the natural wonders and culinary delights of the Saimaa region The Saimaa region in southeast Finland has been awarded the status of European Region of Gastronomy 2024. With its rich culture, locally sourced food, beautiful landscape, and unique accommodation options, it is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and food connoisseurs alike.
ways. One of them is the Uhkua wild food excursion, where visitors travel to an island by boat to enjoy a three-course meal, crafted from local ingredients by local Patron of D.O. Saimaa, chef Ilkka Arvola.
By Ndéla Faye
Lake Saimaa is Finland’s largest lake, and with its 15,000 islands, its archipelago offers a host of activities for visitors. Moreover, the region has a unique culture and vibrant gastronomy scene - and thanks to the Saimaa Designation of Origin (D.O) accreditation you are assured that products or ingredients have been produced in the Saimaa region following high-quality criteria.
Pie workshop in her home. Karjalanpiirakka, or Karelian pastry, is a local delicacy, made from rye flour and filled with rice or potatoes, and best enjoyed warm alongside some egg butter.
In Mikkeli, Tertti Manor is a unique destination that serves food made from organically farmed produce on their own fields based on a ‘farm to plate’ principle. Inside, guests get to enjoy some of the finest culinary delights in the manor’s atmospheric and historic milieu.
The Saimaa region attracts visitors from all over the world, and guests can indulge in Saimaa’s culinary offerings in many
A nature-lover’s dream
A foodie’s paradise In Saimaa, the locals are known for their friendliness, cheerfulness and exceptional hospitality. “There’s always room for guests at the table and food is a matter of pride for eastern Finnish hosts,” says Paula Okkola from Okkola Holiday Cottages where you can join a Karelian 60
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Issue 163
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February 2024
The endangered Saimaa ringed seal is found exclusively in Lake Saimaa. Photo: Visit Saimaa
For nature enthusiasts, there are plenty of summer adventures too. Some of the most popular include kayaking in Linnansaari National Park, cycling in the Saimaa archipelago, and seal safaris to catch a glimpse of the endangered Saimaa ringed seal, found exclusively in Lake Saimaa. Excursion company Lakeland GTE’s noiseless and electricity-run ecoboat or travel company Oravi provide seal-safe ways to spot the ringed seals – although if lucky, some