Top 13 Lakes around Mikkeli

The Mikkeli region is home to the critically endangered Saimaa ringed seal, a freshwater seal species found exclusively in Lake Saimaa. Visitors have a unique chance to spot this rare animal, especially in the labyrinthine waters of Saimaa. The lakes also support abundant birdlife.

Lake Puula is renowned as an excellent fishing destination, particularly for lake trout and lake salmon, and has yielded Finland's largest lake salmon in the 21st century. Lake Kyyvesi is also a popular spot for anglers, known for its large pike, zander, and perch, with relatively low fishing pressure.

Yes, Pistohiekka Beach is a notable spot, featuring ancient beaches and rock outcrops, and allows for camping according to public access rights. Many holiday cottages and villas along Lake Saimaa's shores also offer private access to clean waters for swimming and relaxation.

You can find various hiking trails, such as the Neitvuoren reitti, which offers breathtaking viewpoints of the Lake Saimaa archipelago from the View of Lake Saimaa Archipelago from Neitvuori. Near Lake Kyyvesi, the Häkkilän polku trail runs through an old-growth forest, and Keronvuori hill also offers hiking. For more options, explore the Hiking around Mikkeli guide.

Yes, boat trips on Lake Saimaa can lead to the Stone Age rock paintings of Astuvansalmi. Additionally, the municipality of Savitaipale features the Hakamäki open-air museum, showcasing historical rural buildings, and an observation tower with lake views.

The View of Lake Saimaa Archipelago from Neitvuori offers expansive panoramic views, especially from its summit and various rocky outcrops. Another excellent spot is Lake Views Along Scenic Route 62, which provides magical vistas during climbs and descents. Korppivuori hill on Lake Puula and Keronvuori hill near Lake Kyyvesi also offer scenic perspectives.

Absolutely. The vastness and intricate layout of Lake Saimaa make it ideal for exploring by paddling, chartering a boat, or taking a cruise. Lake Puula's clear waters and diverse island maze are perfect for boating and paddling. Lake Kyyvesi, despite its rocky nature, is well-suited for canoeing and kayaking, with marked routes available.

During winter, the frozen lakes around Mikkeli provide opportunities for skiing, skating, and snowshoeing, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts.

Many areas are family-friendly. Pistohiekka Beach is great for relaxing and camping. The Savitaipale open-air museum offers an educational experience. Additionally, Hiidenkota Shelter provides a comfortable spot for families to camp overnight with provided firewood.

Lake Saimaa is Finland's largest lake and the fourth largest natural freshwater lake in Europe. Its unique labyrinthine shape, with numerous straits and 13,710 islands, gives it the world's longest lake coastline. It is also the exclusive habitat of the Saimaa ringed seal and features ancient rock paintings.

Yes, the Mikkeli region offers various cycling opportunities. You can find challenging mountain biking trails in the MTB Trails around Mikkeli guide, and diverse routes for gravel biking in the Gravel biking around Mikkeli guide, many of which traverse the scenic lake landscapes.

The lakes around Mikkeli bear strong traces of the Ice Age. You can observe exposed bedrock, sandy esker ridges, and rugged cliff shores. Lake Puula is particularly known for dozens of unique mushroom-like cliff formations, such as the Altar Stone, which are notable natural attractions.

Visitors appreciate the diverse natural beauty, the clean waters, and the tranquility of the region. The stunning views, especially from spots like Lake Views Along Scenic Route 62 and View of Lake Saimaa Archipelago from Neitvuori, are frequently highlighted. The opportunity for various outdoor activities, from hiking to fishing, also contributes to a highly enjoyable experience.