You can cycle the section between Ruokolahti and Utula via Äitsaari, the largest island in South Karelia, and take a boat ride across the water. You can also cycle through the mainland and visit the Salpalinja at the same time. The simplest way to start cycling is to go on a day trip by bike instead of by car. The Saimaa Archipelago Route is a great place to do this.
Best cycling destinations in Saimaa
Saimaa Cycling/Saimaa Archipelago Route offers cycling tourists the best routes and tips for active holidays on beautiful Lake Saimaa. There are many delightful cycle routes along which you can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Saimaa. The approximately 156-kilometre-long Saimaa island route runs along the Salpausselks, large marginal formations shaped by the continental ice sheet, offering, in addition to the sights of the cities of Lappeenranta and Imatra, three charming church villages in Taipalsaari, Ruokolahti and Joutseno. It is worth setting aside several days for the route, as there is plenty to see. The area’s hiking destinations invite you to relax in nature, and the restaurants and cafés invite you to enjoy local delicacies.
Combine the route with, for example, a tour of Savitaipale and you will see idyllic countryside, Partakoski and Kärnäkoski Fortress. Along the route you can stay in personalised hotels, bed and breakfasts or camp on the shores of Lake Saimaa. Make the most of your trip and stop for a moment to relax in the bosom of pure nature, see the historical sights of the area and enjoy local delicacies. Along the routes you can stay in personalised hotels, bed and breakfasts or camping on the shores of Lake Saimaa.
Experience the joy of cycling along the beautiful Lake Saimaa!
The website has been implemented as a measure of the Rural Tourism Internationalisation and Network Development (MAKE) project funded by goSaimaa Oy.
