Located in the heart of the Finnish Lakeland, Taipalsaari is a sprawling municipality in the South Karelia region. It encompasses around 700 islands dotted across Lake Saimaa and is a hub for recreational pursuits, located on the doorstep of Lappeenranta’s cultural attractions.
Things to do in Taipalsaari
Taipalsaari is an ideal base for exploring the Finnish Lakeland, a glacial-shaped landscape that was heavily eroded during the Quaternary ice ages. You can soak up the breathtaking scenery along the Route 62 scenic drive or hike to the balancing rock of Kummakivi, then kayak along the waters of Lake Saimaa. It provides habitat for the Saimaa Ringed Seal and an endangered species of local salmon.
Another way to explore the region’s natural landscapes is while cruising the Saimaa Canal, which was constructed between 1845 and 1856 to connect Lake Saimaa with the Gulf of Finland. Learn about its role in the industrialisation of Eastern Finland as you cruise through its historic locks or visit the Saimaa Canal Museum on the outskirts of Lappeenranta.
Also nearby is the Lappeenrannan Linnoitus, an 18th-century fortress complex that’s been transformed into a cultural and dining destination. Many of its historic buildings house museums, restaurants and shops, such as the craft store of Tyyki. You can delve into the past at the South Karelia Museum or visit the Cavalry Museum where old uniforms and weapons are on display. Stunning waterfront views are on offer at Majurska Café.
Getting around Taipalsaari
Taipalsaari is around 15 minutes’ drive from Lappeenranta and Lappeenranta Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Helsinki is just under three hours away. Buses connect to Taipalsaari from towns and cities across Southern Finland while the centre of Taipalsaari is compact enough to explore on foot.