Attractions and Places To See around Parikkala - Top 19

The most renowned cultural attraction is the Parikkala Sculpture Park (Parikkalan Patsaspuisto), featuring over 500 concrete statues created by artist Veijo Rönkkönen. It's a remarkable example of Finnish contemporary folk art, offering a unique blend of nature and human expression. You can find more information about the main settlement, which includes the park, at Parikkala.

Siikalahti Wetland is a significant bird wetland and one of Finland's best lakes for birdwatching. It's an internationally recognized site where nearly 300 bird species have been observed. It's also a popular hiking area for nature photographers and families.

Yes, Parikkala is home to several historical churches. The Parikkala Church, a wooden, double-cross shaped church built in the early 19th century, can accommodate 1,600 people and features an altarpiece by Russian artist Grevishevsky. The Saari Church, designed by Ilmari Launis, is a beautiful brick-built church with an altarpiece painted directly on the wall by Laila Järvinen, depicting the ascension of Christ.

You can visit Mykkiinkivet in Kesusmaa, which are massive glacial erratics forming the largest set of erratic boulders in the Nordic countries. Another interesting natural feature is Huttumalja in Uukuniemi, a kettle hole formed by the Ice Age, measuring 60 meters in diameter and 25 meters deep.

Explore the Archaeological Site in Papinniemi, near the Papinniemi camping site, which contains remains of an Orthodox church, a cemetery, and a village from the 15th-17th centuries. You can also find ancient Hole Traps in the Romanonkangas area, believed to have been used for hunting elk and deer, and a Cup-marked Stone, a large glacial erratic with cup-like dents thought to be sacrificial stones.

Yes, Parikkala offers several small museums showcasing local history. These include the Parikkala Local History Museum (Hauta-Olli's Cottage), the Parikkala Dairy Museum, and the Honkakylä Merchant's Museum, a shop museum displaying items from the 1940s and 1950s. There's also a Museum of Horse-Drawn Vehicles and Agricultural Implements.

The region offers various hiking routes suitable for different skill levels. Popular options include the easy Haukkavuori Nature Trail and Aate-Pekan Trail, or the moderate Kyynärpääjoki river hiking trail and Pörölampi loop from Pöröpeikonpolku. For more details and routes, visit the Hiking around Parikkala guide.

Absolutely. You can visit the Lakeside Shelter and Grill at Lake (Finland), which provides a place for relaxation by the water and the option to use a rowing boat. The area around Lake Simpelejärvi, where Parikkala is located, also offers idyllic village landscapes and opportunities for outdoor enjoyment.

Many attractions in Parikkala are suitable for families. The Parikkala Sculpture Park offers a unique and engaging experience for all ages. The Siikalahti Wetland is great for nature walks and birdwatching. The Lakeside Shelter and Grill at Lake (Finland) provides a relaxing spot by the water, and Café Pullaposki is a lovely place for a family treat.

For a delightful break, visit Café Pullaposki. This unassuming small bakery is known for its amazing cinnamon buns and provides a perfect spot to rest and enjoy local treats.

Parikkala offers outdoor activities year-round. Summer is ideal for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the lakes, with abundant opportunities for berry and mushroom picking. The Parikkala Sculpture Park is accessible year-round. Winter provides opportunities for snow-related activities, though specific trail conditions may vary.

Yes, Parikkala offers various cycling routes. You can explore options like the Birdland Cycling Route, or scenic loops such as the Punkaharju Ridge Scenic Road. Routes range from easy to difficult, catering to different preferences. Find more details in the Cycling around Parikkala guide or the Road Cycling Routes around Parikkala guide.

Beyond the Sculpture Park, Parikkala is home to Koitsanlahti Manor, which is Finland's only 'granted manor' of its kind. This site reflects a unique cultural heritage and history spanning from the 17th to the 19th centuries, offering a glimpse into a distinct historical period.