Holiday Guide Leisure Services 24 Accommodation 36 Restaurants 40 Shopping 44 Attractions 47

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2 WELCOME TO LAKE SAIMAA 3 COTTAGES AND FISHING 4 CRUISES AND BOATING 6 HIKING IN SOUTH KARELIA 8 IMATRA AND IMATRANKOSKI 10 LAPPEENRANTA FORTRESS AND MUSEUMS 12 THE SANDCASTLE 14 LEISURE AND ACTIVITIES 16 CULTURE ALL YEAR ROUND 18 VISIT ST. PETERSBURG OR VYBORG 20 EVENTS IN SOUTH KARELIA 21 SERVICE Index Lappeenranta Region Leisure Services 24 Accommodation 36 Restaurants 40 Shopping 44 Attractions 47 Imatra Region Leisure Services 49 Accommodation 53 Restaurants 56 Shopping 57 Attractions 58 TOP 10 SUMMER & WINTER IN SOUTH KARELIA 29 MAPS 30 GOOD TO KNOW 32 Holiday Guide 2011 PRODUCTION: Mediakolmio Oy TeXTS: Mediakolmio Oy, Imatra Region Development Company Ltd, Lappeenranta Business Development Ltd, gosaimaa Ltd LAYOUT: Mediakolmio Oy PICTURES: Mediakolmio Oy, Mikko Nikkinen, Ari Nakari, Kehy, LSYP ADVERTISING SALES: Jorma Saarhelo PRINTED BY: AS Unipress PRINT RUN: FIN, ENG and RUS We don t take responsibility for potential changes in timetables, prices or other current information provided in this guide. Additional information about restaurants, accommodation, attractions and events is available online at gosaimaa.fi.

3 SAIMAA Welcome to SAIMAA! The blue, calm surface of Lake Saimaa and white nights, cuckooing in the distance. In winter, the same landscape dressed in white, a camp fire crackling by the lean-to and the aroma of coffee brewed over an open fire. Lake Saimaa the largest lake in Finland and the fourth largest in Europe is known for its picturesque landscape and peaceful nature. It is also the home of the rare Saimaa ringed seal. Today s Saimaa is a haven for visitors who enjoy nature and culture. South Karelia s rich history and unique cultural heritage between east and west is complemented by unspoilt nature. Saimaa provides a range of experiences throughout the year, from fishing and cultural activities to golf and tour skating. If you just want to relax, visit a spa or take a visa-free cruise to Vyborg. Lake Saimaa area is easily accessible by car, train, boat, or aeroplane from both Finland and Europe. Visit Saimaa and fall under its spell! SAIMAA IS EASY TO REACH Facts Helsinki to Lappeenranta 221 km Helsinki to Imatra 256 km St. Petersburg to Lappeenranta 213 km St. Petersburg to Imatra 210 km Train from Helsinki to Lappeenranta 2 h 8 min Train from Helsinki to Imatra 2 h 34 min International flights by Ryanair and airbaltic from over 60 European destinations New this year: a scheduled boat service on m/s Brahe from Helsinki via Kotka to Lappeenranta with connections to Puumala and Savonlinna

4 On an isle in Saimaa A SMALL SUMMER COTTAGE...or maybe an elegant villa More than islands and almost kilometres of shoreline. A small wooden sauna is being heated up in many capes and bays. Refreshing water running through your toes or a dip into a hole in the ice directly from the heat of the sauna what is Your way to relax? RENT A HOLIDAY HOME! Hundreds of traditional cottages, high-class villas and holiday apartments available for rent all year round. Lake Saimaa became a popular holiday region already at the end of the 19 th century. The attraction hasn t faded during the years; the aroma of birch leaves mixed with a slight smell of smoke from the lake-side saunas being heated, a view over a peaceful lake, the warmth of a fireplace in the wintertime, these are the elements hard to find anywhere else. Lake Saimaa offers a lot to choose from. Here you can find your very own getaway, if you like to stroll through the forest picking mushrooms and berries. Others are attracted by a well-equipped rental villa with its carefree atmosphere. When the cottage shore is located at Saimaa, you can get all the way to the ocean by boat, if you like. In winter you make a trip on the frozen lake to an island nearby. Services in Lappeenranta and Imatra are close to you, often a short boat ride away and cottages are easy to reach. By the shores of Lake Saimaa in South Karelia, everyone can find a place and an opportunity to spend a holiday like a dream. TOUR SKATING Rent skates and go on a trip on a frozen lake! The traditional Savitaipale Tour Skating event will take place from 25 th to 26 th February 2011.

5 SAIMAA COTTAGE ACCOMMODATION & FISHING Catch from DEEP WATERS In summer you can fish from the shore by spinning or using a rod and line. The powerful streams of the Vuoksi river don t freeze completely in winter. The Saimaa region offers an experienced fisherman an opportunity to catch sometimes vendace, sometimes pike-perch. Beginners can easily get started on a guided fishing trip. Get proper fishing licences! In Finland, all kind of fishing, except for angling and ice fishing, requires a licence or a fee. The required licences depend on the type of fishing, the equipment used, the age of the fisher and the water area where the fishing takes place. You can easily pay the State fishery fee and provincial lure fishing fees online at or at every R-kioski in Finland. Fishing licences for the Vuoksi river and Lake Saimaa are available at the sports store Urheilu- Koskimies in Lappeenranta and at the Vuoksi Fishing Park in Imatra. i» gosaimaa.fi/activities Recreational fishing has long traditions at the Saimaa region: the first fishing society, The Wuoksi Fishing Club, was founded back in The interest for fishing faded for a while, but regular plantings have strengthened the fish population in Vuoksi, which has regained its position as a significant fishing water. Nowadays, fly and lure fishermen as well as the smallest fishing enthusiasts of the family may catch fish from the waters and fishing parks of the region all year round. A special kind of winter attraction is to wrap oneself up in a warm quilted overall and head to a frozen lake to enjoy the sun and the wonders of ice fishing. Fishing is an attraction in itself, but a nice catch makes it even more appealing. An experienced fisherman finds good fishing waters of his own, but a beginner will be happy of the local fishing services and guides; a catch is guaranteed at the Vuoksi Fishing Park, Korpikeidas in Joutseno or Kuokkalammen Lohi in Ruokolahti. The region is rich in fish species: rainbow trout, pikeperch and lake trout, you may also catch arctic char and crayfish. There are even sturgeons that have been planted in a fish pool of the Vuoksi Fishing Park. After a nice catch, the fish can be smoked or grilled on the spot. Nothing tastes as good as self-caught fish!

6 Saimaa AT ITS BEST OFF THE COAST The shores with rough cliffs and scenic islands of Lake Saimaa look different when admired from the lake. Feel the wind in your hair as the ship passes through the rocky, narrow passages and over the open waters of the Greater Saimaa. NATURE, HISTORY OR PROGRAMME FOR CHILDREN? Visa-free cruises to Vyborg and St. Petersburg in Russia are an excellent alternative among cruises being offered in the lake district of South Saimaa. There are more than kilometres of navigation fairways, along which you will find unforgettable landscapes. A cruise on an inland-water ship is an impressive experience and there are many alternatives, suitable for everyone s holiday plans, ranging from island cruises and guided river cruises that carry you through the town of Imatra on the swift River Vuoksi current to canal cruises where you get to visit the historic Saimaa Canal and pass through the Mälkiä lock. Food is served on some boats. Themed children s cruises are a sure hit among youngsters. Midsummer Eve s bonfires can be admired on the ship, while dancing until late at night! Most cruises depart from Lappeenranta or Imatra, but you can also reach Saimaa on m/s Brahe from Helsinki via Kotka. You can also continue your journey on the same ship all the way to Savonlinna via Puumala. HIRE A SAILING BOAT and take a guided sailing trip under an experienced skipper!

7 SAIMAA CRUISES & BOATING How about a cultural journey along the historical Saimaa Canal to the old Vyborg? Why not visit St. Petersburg on the same trip? Step on board of m/s Carelia and set out on a journey! If you are with a smaller group, it is easy to depart on a chartered cruiser. On the other hand many people prefer to be independent and set out with their own boat or a rental one to meet the waves of Saimaa. Lake Saimaa offers an independent boater several attractive recreation areas equipped with campfire sheds and moorings nearby. For a change of scenery, moor your vessel in the Imatra, Lappeenranta, or any other nearby visitors marina and enjoy the urban atmosphere! LAKE SAIMAA Facts The fourth largest lake in Europe Altitude 76 m Area km 2 Maximum length 194 km Maximum width 138 km Average depth 17 m Maximum depth 82 m Length of the shoreline km Number of islands Number of protected Saimaa ringed seals approx. 270

8 A variety of opportunities on land and WATER In Finland Everyman s right gives you free access to the land and waterways. You will find well-equiped campfire sites at recreation areas and along hiking trails. Boating or hiking explore the shores of Saimaa Saimaa, and other smaller lakes offer an endless number of routes for boating and canoeing enthusiasts. Municipal visitors marinas and excursion harbours of the South Karelian Foundation for Recreation Areas, serve as a base for your boating holiday. You can freely use the recreation areas with their sheltered campfire sites. It is also nice to enjoy the beautiful lake scenery from the shore. There are beaches near to the communities and a bit further away you will find recreation areas with wonderful beaches. Spend a summer day by open waters of Saimaa, for instance in Päihänniemi, Rastinniemi or Huuhanranta. Paddlers, boaters and fishermen! South Karelia water way excursions map can be bought from Lappeenranta and Imatra region's tourist information offices, as well as a number of tourism enterprises. Humming trees along hiking and nature trails It s easy to walk on the ridges of Salpausselkä. You can climb to the top and enjoy the forest landscape and the open Lakeland. The European long-distance hiking route E10 passes through South Karelia lengthwise: the best route runs from Imatra through Ruokolahti and Rautjärvi to Parikkala and is over 100 km long. For a longer day trip of kms, join the route for instance in Joutseno, Ruokolahti or Parikkala.

9 Saimaa by bike Saimaa reveals its beauty in many places for bikers in South Karelia. A cycling trip is recommended to people interested in the history of the border region, as visits to various museums and memorials can be fitted into a day. Urban areas have good cycle paths, and maps of the towns and surrounding areas provide useful information for cyclists. You can hire a bicycle in Lappeenranta and Imatra. For details on the businesses providing bicycle hire see the Service Index pages 28 and 51, or visit gosaimaa.fi. Favourite destination for birds Migratory birds rest in South Karelia during spring and autumn. Visit the Siikalahti observation tower in Parikkala with an expert guide and enjoy watching the birds in the best wetland area of the country. Pien-Rautjärvi in Parikkala and Konnunsuo in Lappeenranta also feature great bird watching sites. How to find destinations and routes? Description of places and driving instructions: A nautical chart of Lake Saimaa (series L) for boaters, available at bookstores and Mapshops (Karttakeskus). The South Karelia Lake and River Excursion Map designed especially for canoeists, covering also area of the lakes Kivijärvi, Kuolimo and Simpelejärvi. Route map for hikers, available at tourist information and at municipality offices. Bikers GT maps 1 and 4 You can download all hiking destinations and trails in South Karelia to your GPS navigator as GPX files from Before downloading, please check your navigator s user guide that your navigator supports these files. EXCURSIONS 10 TIPS FOR A HIKER IN SOUTH KARELIA Karhusaari: close to the Lappeenranta harbour accessible on a canoe Haikkaanlahti: a 5 20 km route in Taipalsaari with lean-to shelters Lammassaari Island: an about 3 kms hike starting from Imatra Spa along the shore of the island, a lean-to and a Lappish shelter. Hiking trail E10 from Rauha/Imatra to Parikkala: 110 km of marked trail with lean-tos (part of the Holy Trails route) Hiitolanjoki River: a 1,5 km scenery trail by Lake Rautjärvi Siikalahti Wetland: one of the country s best wetlands for bird watching in Parikkala Rastinniemi: a recreation area in the middle of the Greater Saimaa Orrainpolku nature trail: a 10 km hike in the wild nature of Savitaipale Irja Hannonen trail: an old forest trail in Suomenniemi Pärsäniemi: hike to the lean-to by Lake Kivijärvi in Luumäki EveryMan s Rights and Obligations You may freely walk or cycle temporarily stay on shores and land pick wild berries, mushrooms, and flowers fish with a rod and line and go ice fishing swim, row, sail or use a motorboat on waterways; walk and ski on frozen lakes, rivers and the sea You may not leave litter or disturb animals light open fires on other people s property disturb the privacy of people s homes or cottage shores by camping too near enter private yards, fields or other plantations cut down or damage living trees drive motor vehicles off-road without the landowner s permission fish (with nets or spinning) or hunt without the relevant licenses

10 Lake Saimaa rushes into the RIVER VUOKSI Standing at the Imatrankoski rapids you feel yourself small and helpless, watching the water pouring down to the river bed at a speed of 500 cubic metres in a second. Imagine what it would feel like to cross the raging stream on a steel cable! THE PHENOMENAL RAPIDS-SHOW The most daring cross the raging river by gliding on a steel cable. The Rapids-show begins at 6 pm every day 27 th June 14 th August 2011 and in winter on December 25 th and 31 st It was the tremendous force of the river Vuoksi that brought the first tourists to Finland; the history of tourism began from the banks of Imatrankoski rapids, which have attracted travellers from foreign countries since the 18 th century. Many famous people have visited the rapids, among them the Russian Empress Catherine II, Alexandre Dumas the Elder and Richard Wagner. Later on, many distinguished guests have stayed overnight at the historical Castle hotel Valtionhotelli next to the rapids. Even today, Lake Saimaa and River Vuoksi are featuring the townscape. Afterwards Imatra by the River Vuoksi has developed into a modern garden town. Feel its charming atmosphere in the pedestrian town centre or in the Kruununpuisto nature park, surrounding the rapids; take a walk along park trails admiring rock carvings and giants kettles, then have a relaxing picnic at the Imperial panoramic Pavilion.

11 IMATRA IMATRANKOSKI RAPIDS YEAR-ROUND ACTIVITIES The Imatra region offers a diverse range of exciting activities throughout the year for everyone just choose your favourite from the weekly programme. In the summer, you can enjoy an ATV safari, go on a thrilling banana boat ride, zip slide across the foaming river, or take a leisurely cruise. Winter activities include tour skating on natural ice, floating on the freezing lake in a survival suit, and parasailing on Saimaa. Exciting group activities are also available (by prior arrangement). You can download the weekly programmes from the Internet or get them from the local Tourist Information Centre. Fancy a guided Imatra sightseeing tour or a walking tour in the historical Kruununpuisto Park? Expert guides bring the history of the Imatra region to life, prices starting from 80 /hour. For more information, please contact the local Tourist Information Centre.

12 RAMPARTS OF THE FORTRESS Overlook Lake Saimaa The fortress cape, split by a cobble stone street, pushes its way from the city of Lappeenranta to Lake Saimaa. The busy Market Place of The Middle Ages is still the pride of the inhabitants in Lappeenranta. HISTORY Finland s oldest Orthodox Church in the Fortress of Lappeenranta was inaugurated in Open to the public during the summer. Open for groups by prior arrangement during the winter. If you wish to go on a guided Fortress or City tour, please contact the Tourist Information office: guide services starting from 75 /hour. The charming old buildings and the banks overlooking the scenic Lake Saimaa are the elements that create the fascinating atmosphere of the Fortress. Today this nationally significant cultural attraction offers a versatile variety of museums and guided tours. In the captivating old-time atmosphere in Majurska House, you can enjoy a freshly brewed coffee and a slice of the famous berry cake after the tour and also learn about the art and work of the local artisans. The city that grew later on next to the Fortress, welcomes all its visitors with a smile. Lappeenranta is the capital of the province and the centre of Lake Saimaa tourism. In Lappeenranta, famous for its social and easy-going people, the beauty of nature is combined with cheerful Karelian character. You can best experience Lappeenranta by visiting the market place or the lively harbour why not taste a local speciality, the delicious meat pies known as Vety and Atomi! In the famous Säräpirtti or Särätupa gourmet lovers can try Särä, the traditional Finnish mutton stew, made of potatoes and mutton.

13 LAPPEENRANTA THE FORTRESS & MUSEums ARTS AND CRAFTS IN THE FORTRESS Museums in the historical buildings of the Fortress South Karelia Museum, South Karelia Art Museum and the Cavalry Museum open a window into the past and present works of Finnish art, from the 19 th century to the present day. The fortress shops in the Majurska House and old storehouses provide unique shopping opportunities for local handcrafted items. When you want a break from shopping, relax and treat yourself in the Linnoituksen Krouvi Restaurant or Cafe Majurska. Most of the services are open throughout the year. A map of the fortress is available from the local Tourist Information Centre. You can also download it from

14 DESIGNED BY CHILDREN In summer, laughter can be heard from the far end of the Fortress cape. Small feet running around the largest sandcastle in Finland, popping from one small house to another in the Playhouse Village. STREET TRAIN! Jump on board the street train at the Sandcastle and go for a sightseeing tour in Lappeenranta. The street train rides from 12 th June to 28 th August 2011 every day at 10 am 5 pm (Mon 12 noon 5 pm). The train is also available for private hire. Finland s largest sandcastle in Lappeenranta will be built for the eight time. For the second year running it will be designed by children. This year s theme will be circus! Miniature models designed by children will be displayed next to the sandcastle. The castle has been built of some 3 million kilos of sand and there is more at the gigantic sand pit, so try your hand and craft your own piece of art! The Fortress cape offers a lot of exciting activities for children: storytelling and theater, a bouncy castle and a climbing wall. And of course the Playhouse Village Williranta with small houses fully furnished for children to play. The Village, with its beautiful garden area and flower plantings, is carefully designed and built for children.

15 LAPPEENRANTA THE sandcastle Welcome to the Sandcastle! The opening of the Sandcastle will be celebrated in a jolly atmosphere on 12 th June 2011 from 3 pm to 5 pm. The Sandcastle area is open from 12 th June to 28 th August from 10 am to 9 pm. Services at the area are available every day from 12 th June to 14 th August, and during weekends from 15 th to 28 th August. Free admission. Welcome!

16 Saimaa invites you TO ACTIVITIES... A kayak slowly flows towards a rocky island. On the opposite side, a group of golfers is preparing for a tour at the most beautiful golf course in Finland. Saimaa keeps you active all year round. The ICE AND SNOW SAILING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP will be held at Saimaa Gardens from 26 th February to 5th March Subject to weather. The forest, waterways and frozen lakes in the Saimaa area offer various opportunities for spending your free time. You can choose from hiking and skiing - why not to set out to a trip with snowshoes. Jump on board a boat or a snowmobile. Adventurous people are attracted to husky safaris and rock climbing, while friends of more traditional sports are fascinated by excellent jogging trails and several skiing routes. In Imatra, the beginning of the skiing season will be ensured by preparing the first tracks using stored snow from the year before. There is going to be a skiing track, that s for sure, from November to March. Slopes for enthusiasts of downhill skiing are available for instance at the Myllymäki Ski Centre, Simpele KonkaSki or at Ruokolahti FreeSki. Friends of golf are pampered in South Karelia. In Imatra you can play golf by the scenic Immalanjärvi, at the 18-hole golf course designed by the architect Kosti Kuronen. In Lappeenranta golf is played at Kahilanniemi, which is a 9-hole golf course with good practicing areas for close range games and a water range. The unique 18-hole golf court of Etelä-Saimaa Golf on the isle of Tuosa in Lappeenranta is praised as the most beautiful court in Finland. The nature outside the fairways, including the historical Salpalinja fortifications, has been kept as untouched as possible. During winter, golfers can practise at two winter training centres, Inside Golf in Imatra and Swingmakers in Lappeenranta.

17 OPTIONS FOR LEISURE TIME...AND RELAX in warm pools Allow your body and to soul enjoy some treatments, massages and to feel the warm water of almost 30 degrees. Dive into the outdoor pool to admire the starry sky, or ride the water slide. The first spa in South Karelia emerged in 1824, when the Lappeenranta Spa was founded on the shore of Lake Saimaa. This original and charming Spa in the middle of the city centre provides its visitors a chance to give themselves a special day with treatments. The location of the Spa next to the services of the city centre, between downtown and the lake shore is magnificent. Visitors of Imatra looking for a spa have two choices: The Spa Hotel Rantasipi Imatran Valtionhotelli and the Magic Forest of the Imatran Kylpylä Spa invite you to pamper yourself all year round. Do you prefer refreshing and relaxing treatments in a peaceful atmosphere, or would you like to enjoy the pool section with heated outdoor pools and waterfalls allowing the entire family to have fun together? Holidays in South Karelia for every taste all year round. SAIMAA GARDENS & HOLIDAY CLUB SAIMAA Saimaa Gardens is a family holiday centre on Saimaa in Lappeenranta. The area has a number of holiday homes for hire, and more are currently being built. The area has a marina and provides various adventure activities for visitors. Holiday Club Saimaa, the largest holiday resort in the Nordic countries, will open its doors to visitors on 1 st October The circus-influenced spa, year-round ice area, wellness world, bowling arena, restaurants, conference facilities, and the hotel with over 600 beds invite and welcome visitors from all over the world. The area will stage a range of events throughout the year, including Winter Action Park at the beginning of the year and an open air music festival in the summer. An 18-hole golf course will also be built in the area.

18 HIGH-CLASS CULTURE with international twist Drama or musical experiences? While the most famous stars of the performing arts give their best on the stage, the audience holds its breath. ENJOY THE CULTURE! Attractive cultural events all year round. BALLET! Enjoy prize-winning choreographies and performances of star dancers at the Lappeenranta Ballet Gala from 26 th to 27 th August The most significant cultural events in South Karelia are internationally well known. The Imatra Big Band Festival is the absolute highlight of the cultural year, attracting up to visitors to enjoy the rhythms of jazz, blues, funk and soul. The only Big Band Music Festival in the world presents top bands and musicians from both Finland and abroad. The local festival has turned into an international phenomenon labelled by an extraordinary, warm and intensive atmosphere. Come and experience the Imatra Spirit! Culture lovers are attracted to Lappeenranta mainly because of two singing events that take turns. The national Lappeenranta Song Contest concentrates on solo singing; many famous Finnish artists have started their international career after winning this contest, including Karita Mattila, Johanna Rusanen and Jorma Hynninen. The Laulava Lappeenranta singing event, offering versatile programme for singing enthusiasts, is arranged every other year.

19 CULTURE ALL YEAR ROUND Classical music is going strong in South Karelia. The Lappeenranta City Orchestra has worked on a professional basis for a hundred years by now. Today it s nationally respected as an important performer of orchestra music. High quality chamber music is one of Imatra s specialities. Together with brass bands, accordionists and famous rock bands, the province offers alternatives for everyone s music taste. Cultural Jewels of the Year Singing Lappeenranta 5 th and 9 th January 2011 Imatra Big Band Festival 1 st 9 th July 2011 Lemi Music Festival 28 th 31 st July 2011 Lappeenranta Ballet Gala 26 th 27 th August 2011

20 St. Petersburg Tourist Information Centre Vyborg Tourist Information Centre Information about St. Petersburg and Vyborg is also available at the tourist information centers in Lappeenranta and Imatra. In order to book a trip to Vyborg or St. Petersburg, please contact Saimaa Travel Net in Lappeenranta ( you can travel on your own or together with a group. The new Allegro train offers a fast connection from Lappeenranta (Vainikkala) to Vyborg and St. Petersburg! CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR YOUR HOLIDAY In St. Petersburg Art history treasures in the Hermitage Opera and ballet at the Mariinsky Theatre Royal palaces In Vyborg Medieval events in the summer The Vyborg Sails Marine Festival The Vyborg Castle Jazz Festival The Window to Europe Russian Film Festival Visit ST. PETERSBURG AND VYBORG The city of many faces, St. Petersburg, is just around the corner from South Karelia. The diverse metropolis provides visitors with endless choices and options. Why not make a weekend of it and visit charming Vyborg, too! The splendour of the old royal palaces, unforgettable cultural experiences from the finest ballet to concerts and opera, the world-famous Hermitage with its spectacular collections, and a vibrant, pulsating city St. Petersburg will not let you down. St Petersburg has numerous rivers and waterways and is, therefore, often called the Venice of the North. In the old and charming Vyborg you can feel the history as you walk around the slow-paced city. Admire the view from the Vyborg Castle tower, take an afternoon stroll in the romantic Monrepos Park, visit the small shops, or take a break in one of the idyllic cafes and sample some of the Russian delicacies on offer. Vyborg becomes alive in the summer with its jazz and rock festivals, operas in the Vyborg Castle, and a medieval tournament. Vyborg is within easy access from South Karelia by train and car. You can also get there by water from Lappeenranta on m/s Carelia through the Saimaa Canal. Visiting Russia usually requires a visa, but some visa-free cruises are available. The trip from Vyborg to St Petersburg can be made on a coach. Visit Russia and enjoy a memorable holiday!

21 Saimaa events 29 th Jan 26 th Mar The musical Nine, Imatra The Finnish premiere of the highly successful musical, starring Satu Silvo, Sinikka Sokka, and Leena Rousti. 25 th 26 th Feb Savitaipale Tour Skating The event, arranged for the 12th time this year, attracts hundreds of skaters to the tracks on Lake Kuolimo, associated daytime events, and the firelighted evening track. (Subject to weather.) 8 th May 2011 The Spirit of Stone, South Karelia Museum, Lappeenranta 8 th Jan 2012 Stone in pre-history, the best of international stone art, and Why this stone is important to me stories by the public. In cooperation with the Saimaa University of Applied Sciences and Kalevala Koru. 15 th May Visual Art by the Lake Saimaa, South Karelia Art Museum, 18 th Sept Lappeenranta The Vuoksi lake system that runs from Lakes Pielinen and Kallavesi into Lake Suur-Saimaa has inspired artists down through the years. Works include Eero Järnefelt s Koli, Tapani Raittila s Kyläniemi, and Kristiina Uusitalo s Saimaa. In cooperation with the Mikkeli and Kuopio Art Museums. 21 st 22 nd May Vuoksi Fish Market, Imatra Fish and fish products in various forms in the Vuoksi Fishing Park. 24 th 28 th May 8 th Black and White Theatre Festival, Imatra This international theatre festival brings drama and puppet shows to the stages and streets of Imatra. 28 th 29 th May Lappeenranta Summer Market Fish in various forms, gardening, canned food, and entertainment for children and families at the Harbour Square. 12 th June Lappeenranta Sandcastle 28 th Aug Finland s largest sandcastle will be built for the eight time to the fortress cape. The theme of the year is circus. 27 th June Imatrankoski Rapids Show daily at 6 pm 14 th Aug Accompanying music: Sibelius on Mondays, Thursdays and Sundays, Nightwish on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and Darude on Tuesdays and Fridays. 1 st 3 rd July Ylämaa Gem and Mineral Show The oldest and largest fair of its kind in Finland showcases thousands of gems from around the world. 1 st 3 rd July Nordic Veterans Athletics Championships, Lappeenranta The Nordic Championships of over 35-year old athletes bring a colour to Lappenranta. 1 st 9 th July Imatra Big Band Festival Nine days and nights of international rhythms. 23 rd 24 th July Antique and Collectors' Summer Fair, Rautjärvi National trade fair, lectures, events, and antique evaluation. 6 th 7 th Aug Cavalry Festival, Lappeenranta Cavalry band performances, riding and battle shows. Main event on Sunday at the Adolf Ehrnrooth Square. 5 6 th Aug Night of the Fortress, Lappeenranta The traditional city festival takes place in the historical Fortress for the 20 th time. 13 th Aug Lappeenranta Games The international Vattenfall Elite Games for top athletics. Watch the athletes do their final preparations for the World Championships in South Korea. 26 th 27 th Aug Ballet Gala, Lappeenranta The Lappeenranta 2010 Ballet Gala was "best of the best, cream of the cream" (Helsingin Sanomat newspaper, 24 th August 2010). Summer 2011 offers classical and modern ballet from Finland and abroad as solo and group performances. Prize winning choreographies and ballet stars an exciting combination. 27 th Aug Lights of Harbour, Lappeenranta An evening event for the whole family with exciting torches, colourful lights, theatre and music. 10 th 11 th Sept Fish Market, Lappeenranta The largest public event in the region. Fish and fish products, organic and country delicacies, and entertainment for the whole family at the Harbour Square. More events online at gosaimaa.fi/en