Breathe fresh air, walk in our pure nature, feel the serenity of our ancient forests, swim in our thousands of lakes, find out the secret of our sacred sauna.
See the cycle of the year, discover every season. Find your own piece of lake and peace of mind.
Download Salmi AR app and search this Manual for Salmi logos!
Download the free Salmi AR app from your app store. Salmi AR can be operated with newest mobile devices.
When the download is complete, tap ”Scan” and point the camera towards the page to scan it.
Open the Salmi AR app and type ”Lakeland Product Manual” in the search field. Tap to open the package.
Scan far enough from the page so you can see the whole page on the phone’s screen.
Download the package by tapping ”Download”.
When scan is complete, enjoy the content!
Note!
• The pages with AR content are: pages 2, 10, 18, 28 and 34.
• The video is located at the top part of the page in pages 2,10, 28 and 34. Except in page 18 it’s located at the lower part of the page.
• All pages with AR content are marked with the Salmi logo.
Fly fishing in the footsteps of national author Juhani Aho............................................ Hunting wild vegetables and horta at Sahala Estate..................................................... Self-guided kayaking tour in Southern Konnevesi National Park.................................. Discover the magnificent Puijo Tower............................................................................ Enjoy special experiences by fishing and bathing at Lumberjack’s Lodge................... Tasting Kuopio – sightseeing tour................................................................................. Distillery tour and dinner at Merchant’s Manor.............................................................
In a merchant’s footsteps: guided tour with lunch at Koivumäki Manor........................ Scenic mountain bike tour at Tahko.............................................................................. Stories about the life of a Finnish President - A Self-guided AR-tour............................ 11 11 12 13 14 15 15 16 17 17
JOY 19 19 20 20 21 22 23 24 24 25 25 26
Lignell & Piispanen Distillery tour and tasting............................................................... Gin-tasting & Distillery tour in Hophaus Tahko.............................................................. Guided E-fatbike safari winter, 2 hours........................................................................ Savonian afterski at legendary Pehku........................................................................... Wilderness adventures in the middle of the Finnish lakeland...................................... Three-course Kabiini dinner menu with panoramic views on top of Tahko.................. Sawohouse Underground´s show & dinner party.......................................................... Guided stand up paddling trip for beginners, 1 hour................................................... Easy snowmobile safari, 2 hours................................................................................... Playful bowling competition at Tahko Bowling............................................................. Row, row, row your church boat!................................................................................... Tahko Mountain ski resort & ski school.........................................................................
The charm of the summer night, a 3-hour paddling trip in Southern Konnevesi National Park........................................ Decorate your own memento with local artist............................................................... Karelian pie workshop................................................................................................... Bake your own traditional Savonian bread.................................................................... Hop-On Hop-Off tours in Kuopio.................................................................................. The world’s one and only Moomin Ice Cave................................................................. The city walk of Kuopio tastes....................................................................................... Smoke sauna of Hankaniemi elf and manor house dinner menu.................................. 29 30 30 31 31 32 32 33
Unique dining in the Byzantine hall and a visit to the Orthodox church...................... Kuopion Saana – Finnish sauna paradise..................................................................... Hiking trip to Tahko’s secret gem “gorge of Mäkiautio”.............................................. Boat trip........................................................................................................................ Public sauna evenings in a traditional Finnish smoke sauna at Jätkänkämppä in Rauhalahti................................................................................................................. Lake activities at Sahala Estate..................................................................................... Have a break in the nature with a hike and lunch......................................................... Lakeland Lines lake cruises m/s Queen R..................................................................... 35 36 37 37 38 38 39 39
ACCOMMODATION.....................................................................................................
GUIDED ACTIVE SUMMER PACKAGE by Wild Nordic................................................. DELIGHT YOURSELF AT FINNISH LAKELAND AREA by Wild Nordic.......................... COOPERATION.............................................................................................................
OUTDOOR FISHING PERMITS......................................................................................................... 40 52 54 57 58 59
Sari Hyttinen
Project Manager
+358 207 464 652 sari.hyttinen@savogrow.fi
Teija Neuvonen
Senior Advisor
+358 207 464 653 teija.neuvonen@savogrow.fi
Sofia Tenhunen
Travel Contet Creator +358 207 464 654 sofia.tenhunen@savogrow.fi
GreenEscape Oy
Dr. Parvathy Venugopal
CEO, Product Development +358 407 508 009 parvathy@greenescape.fi info@greenescape.fi greenescape.fi
Wild Nordic Finland / Villi Pohjola Oy
Ms. Anu Kärnä
International Sales & Marketing/Lakeland
+358 40 565 8371 lakeland@wildnordic.fi wildnordic.fi/lakeland
Elina Välkky
Project worker +358 207 464 615 elina.valkky@savogrow.fi
Tiina Kuosmanen
Project Coordinator, Savonia +358 44 785 6097 tiina.kuosmanen@savonia.fi
Bailey Lähdesmäki
Communications Specialist, Savonia +358 44 785 6236 bailey.lahdesmaki@savonia.fi
Commission for tour operators: Kindly contact the provider with regards to commission. The prices are valid in 2022-2023. For bigger groups and for more information, please contact the providers. We reserve the right to all changes.
”Northern Savo Lakeland is located in the central of Finland, where east meets west. With approximately 250 000 inhabitants, this is Finlands’s sixth largest region. The landscape is dominated simultaneously by pristine nature and urban cityscapes, forests and lakes. Our region has over 3600 lakes. The inland water area is more than the total area of Luxembourg. Here you can experience nature and city life - all spiced with Savonian humour and a lively attitude.
• 1-hour flight. Seven daily flights.
• 4 hours by train
• 4.5 hours by car
• Kuopio: 4,100 beds
• Tahko: 8,600 beds
• North Savo Region (Pohjois-Savo): 15,000 beds
KUOPIO TAHKO
In the late 19th century, the first professional Finnish author and local son Juhani Aho used to fish in the magnificent surroundings of Jyrkkä in Sonkajärvi – when he had time to spare from courting the daughter of the ironworks’ director. The powerful Jyrkänkoski rapids flow through the historic milieu of Jyrkkä ironworks.
Today, the members of Juhani Ahon Perhokerho (“Juhani Aho fly fishing club”) continue to be engaged in the author’s dear hobby. They are set out to ensure that you will remember more of your day here than just the fishing and the terrace of Ruukin Tupa.
The guides will introduce you to the art of fly fishing with the mighty roar of the rapids in the background. Hopefully we will catch some of Jyrkkä’s famous trout or some delicious perch.
Duration: Approx. 4–6 hours.
Location/Starting point: Ruukin Tupa, Jyrkäntie 1881, 74380 Jyrkkä.
Group size: 4–8 persons.
Availability: 1 April–30 August upon request.
Guiding languages: Finnish, English.
Price: €99/person + fishing license.
What’s included?
• Fishing guide service.
• Use of the equipment.
• Picnic lunch.
How to get there: Arrival by own car or a pick-up service available on order. The nearest railway stations are in Sukeva (about 20 km away) and Kuopio (about 120 km away). The taxi connection from Sukeva to Jyrkkä takes about half an hour. The nearest airport is less than a one-hour drive away and is easy to reach by taxi or pre-ordered flat-rate airport transfers.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No.
Supplements:
• Fly tying course €50/person.
• Fish soup with rye bread €16/person.
• Wood heated sauna and hot tub by the lakeside €200/group of 5-15 persons, incl. use of towels.
• Accommodation available in our log cabins. Cabin prices €100€250/night, sheets €15/person, final cleaning €100 (optionally, the guests can bring their own bedlinen and do the final cleaning themselves).
Bookings and enquiries: Ruukin Tupa
• E-mail: henkka@ruukintupa.fi
• Tel. +358 50 353 1897
Wild vegetables are very healthy, delicious when properly cooked and free for everyone. Horta is local food, basically wild herbs that one only has to travel very short distances from nature to the plate, and with just a modest effort.
We all have a huge treasure trove of natural food available in nearby fo rests, meadows, beaches, swamps, fields, field boundaries and our own backyards. Horticulture helps us become part of nature, expands our awareness of the many beneficial effects of freely grown plants, revita lises our minds, cares for our brains and helps us maintain our energy and health.
During this programme, we collect horta to take home with us, guided by an instructor from a carbon-positive environmentally sustainable farm who tells us about the plants and their uses as we go along.
After the walk we are served a super healthy and tasty seed- wild berry -fruit – herb smoothie, which would be warranty for good gut health if eaten every day. We also supply a recipe and teach how to make it prac tical, cheap, and well-functioning in every way.
Duration: Approx. 4 hours.
Location/Starting point: Sahala Estate, Sahalantie 41, 77700 Rautalampi.
Group size: Min. 2 persons.
Availability: May–September.
Guiding languages: Finnish, English, Russian.
Price: €80/person.
What’s included?
• A guided tour to the wild nature and horta hunting.
• Organic lunch and herbal sauna at Sahala Estate.
Supplements: A night’s stay and health lecture can be arranged on request. How to get there: The nearest railway station is in Suonenjoki (about 23 km away). A taxi ride from Suonenjoki to Rautalampi takes 20 minutes. A drive from Kuopio and Jyväskylä airports takes about 1 hour.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings and enquiries: Sahala Herbs
• E-mail: info@sahalaherbs.fi
• Tel. +358 40 838 5599
Enjoy the peacefulness of the national park, admire the lichen-covered rocky shores and rugged cliffs while experiencing the waterways with your group and advancing at your own pace. This perfect independent tour includes everything you need for a memorable nature experience on the beautiful waters of Southern Konnevesi National Park.
The route follows narrow straits and small bays around the island of Saukkosaari, in the south-eastern corner of the national park. During the trip, you get to paddle under the hanging cliff of Saukkosaari and go greet the rugged faces on the cliffside, Käpynä-Ukko and Käpynä-Akka, who watch over the peace of the national park.
Duration: 3–4 hours / With a visit to Kaituri lean-to, 5–6 hours.
Location/Starting point: Hanhitaipale Harbour, Satamatie 143, 77700 Rautalampi.
Group size: 1–4 persons.
Availability: Available upon agreement, 15 May–31 September 2023.
Guiding languages: Finnish, English.
Price: All prices include VAT 24%
• €49/day/single kayak (1 participant).
• €69/day/double kayak (2 participants).
• €59-65/day/canoe (2-4 participants).
• €45/day/rowing boat (1-4 participants).
What’s included?
• Use of a kayak, canoe or rowing boat and related equipment.
• Use of paddling vests for paddlers or life jackets for rowers.
• Route information, stories about places along the route and instructions for paddlers (delivered as an online link).
• Weatherproof map, with the route marked. Link to the electronic map (retkikartta.fi/mobile).
• Use of a waterproof pouch for mobile phone/car keys, dry bags for gear.
• Safety gear packed in a dry bag (safety plan, first aid kit, hypothermia bag, backup compass and backup map, drinks and energy bars, matches and a knife).
Safety: The route is planned to suite even less experienced paddlers, with consideration to safety. The gear used is suitable for beginners and more experienced paddlers alike. If the weather conditions (wind speed over 8 m/s) do not allow safe execution of the trip, you can change the time of the trip without extra charge.
The trip is well-suited for less experienced paddlers, because the route takes you on peaceful waterways, staying close to shore, but offers enough to see and experience even for a seasoned paddler. The route does not feature rivers to navigate or extensive water bodies to cross. It can be travelled in single or double kayaks or canoes. A rowing boat can be used as well, only with a slight route modification.
The basic route features approximately 5 km of paddling and takes 3–4 hours depending on your paddling speed and duration of breaks. There is no campsite along the route, and when getting ashore, you should adhere to “Everyman’s Rights” that are in effect in Finland (for more information about these rights, see www.nationalparks.fi/en/everymansright).
The route can be extended to include a visit to Kaituri lean-to, which increases the length to approximately 14 km and the paddling time to 5–6 hours.
Requirements: The participants must be at least 18 years old. Children under 18 can participate in the company of a guardian. Renters of kayaks or canoes have to know how to swim; those who cannot swim can take the trip with the rowing boat.
How to get there: The distance from Jyväskylä city centre is 112 km and travelling time 1 h 30 min, from Jyväskylä airport 92 km and travelling time 1 h 15 min, from Kuopio city centre 85 km and travelling time 1 h 10 min and from Kuopio airport 100 km and travelling time 1 h 20 min.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No.
Bookings and enquiries: KalajaRetkeily - Outdoor Adventures Finland
• E-mail: info@kalajaretkeily.fi
• Tel. +358 40 526 8562
Bookings must be made at least 24 hours before the start of the trip.
Additional info: KalajaRetkeily - Outdoor Adventures Finland
• E-mail: info@kalajaretkeily.fi
• Tel. +358 40 526 8562
• Web: www.kalajaretkeily.fi/en
Greet the rugged faces on the cliffside, Käpynä-Ukko and Käpynä-Akka, who watch over the peace of the national park ”
The peak of Puijo Tower pierces the sky at 224 meters above Lake Kallavesi and 306 meters above sea level. Perched on top of the Puijo hill, Puijo Tower stands 75 meters tall and overlooks the surrounding forests, central Kuopio and other city districts and Lake Kallavesi with simply outstanding 360-degree views.
Puijo Tower is one of the most popular landmarks in Finland. It stands within Puijo Peak – a nature activity park where the forest, fun and local food come together for unforgettable experien ces. Come and try out exciting activities in different seasons, en joy the world-class cuisine and marvel at the stunning panoramic Lakeland views extending as far as the eye can see from atop the tower in the heart of Kuopio, the culturally rich North Savonian city. Welcome to explore the staggering views to a beautiful landscape with grand forests and blue lakes!
In honor of its 60th anniversary, Puijon Tower has been renovated both inside and out. Welcome to urban landscapes, in the middle of beautiful nature!
• Adult €8
• Child 4-15 years €5
(no commission)
• Family ticket (2 adults+2 children 4-16 yrs) €20
• Student, pensioner €6
• Entrance fee for groups €6/person. Min. group size 15 persons; tour leader and bus driver have free entry
Open all year round.
Check the opening hours online at www.puijopeak.fi/en
This tour is organised by an experienced professional city guide who tells the guests about the history, nature and tower (including the previous edifices) of the Puijo area and about what Puijo has to offer today.
Duration: 1–1.5 hours.
Location/Starting point: Puijontie 135, 70300 Kuopio. Group size: Min. 15 persons.
Availability: All year round upon request. Guiding languages: Finnish, English.
Price: €16/person, minimum amount of invoice €225. The tour leader and bus driver have free access. What’s included?
• Entrance fees to Puijo Tower.
• Services of a professional guide. How to get there: The nearest railway station is in Kuopio (about 2 km away). The taxi connection from the railway station to Puijo takes about 5 minutes. A Kuopio city bus serves Puijo in the summer. The nearest airport is about a 30-minute drive away and is easy to reach with taxi or pre-ordered flat-rate airport transfers.
Accessible for people with disabilities: Yes.
Bookings and enquiries: Puijo Peak Oy Ltd
• E-mail: sales@puijopeak.fi,
• Tel. +358 41 317 9719
• Web: www.puijopeak.fi/en
GUIDED TOUR ON PUIJO HILL AND VISIT TO PUIJO TOWER ENTRANCE FEESFishing guru Janne Parviainen takes you on the rich fishing grounds of Lake Kallavesi to enjoy the glistening lake and the beauty of the natural scenery. Lake Kallavesi abounds with fish, so why not try your luck at outwitting a perch or zander, for example? After the exciting fishing trip, you can relax in the gentle heat of a smoke sauna, reminiscing about the day’s catch. The day is rounded off by a delicious dinner at Spa Hotel Rauhalahti, prepared out of your catch by professional chefs.
Kallavesi is the tenth-biggest lake in Finland. Located in Northern Savo, it embraces the region’s capital city of Kuopio from different directions. The surface area of Kallavesi measures about 480 km², and the lake is dotted with almost 2,000 islands. At the widest stretch, it extends to over 70 km in length. Kallavesi is a significant lake for recreational fishing, and the most common fish species found in it are pike, zander and perch. Its fish selection also includes burbot, bream, roach, ide, whitefish, vendace and lake trout.
The lakeside smoke sauna at Rauhalahti provides a fabulous experience that combines Finnish tradition with sauna bathing and well-being. The sauna seats 60 persons at a time, and in between sessions in the heat you can have an invigorating dip in the lake. Come onboard and head out for new experiences!
Guiding languages: Finnish, English.
Price:
• Fishing trips are available from May to November on request for the price of €970 per boating party incl. VAT.
• Lumberjack’s Lodge is available on Tuesdays all year round and also on Thursdays in summer.
• On days other than Tuesdays and summer Thursdays, the price of a fishing trip is €1,345 per boating party incl. VAT.
What’s included?
• Use of a boat equipped for both trolling and spinning.
• Lifejackets.
• Fishing gear (10 trolling sets, 5 pike fishing sets and 5 jig sets; note that the lures have been made by your fishing guide).
• Fishing licences.
• Services of your expert fishing guide.
• Rainwear for five persons.
• Insurance.
• Snacks for the boat trip (a filled bread roll prepared out of the best local produce, coffee, tea, water and lingonberry juice).
• Sauna bathing (towels included).
• Dinner at Spa Hotel Rauhalahti prepared out of the day’s catch. For extra charge:
Lunch around a campfire at a lean-to shelter, including the firewood and services of a chef:
• Creamy salmon soup, warm rye bread with butter €22 per person.
Duration: Approx. 10 hours.
Location/Starting point: Jätkänkämppä Lumberjack Lodge, Spa Hotel Rauhalahti, Katiskaniementie 8, 70700 Kuopio.
Group size: Guide + 1–5 persons.
For bigger groups, please ask for a quote.
Availability: During the ice-free period between 15 May and 30 November 2022 from early morning to late evening.
Lumberjack’s Lodge is available on Tuesdays all year round and also on Thursdays in the summer.
Note! On Tuesdays and in summer time also on Thursdays the smoke sauna is open to the public too; on other days it is reserved for the group only.
Clothing: Outdoor clothing and footwear appropriate for the weather; rubber boots on rainy days. A swimsuit/swim trunks for the sauna.
• Sautéed game, mashed potatoes, lingonberries, pickled cucumber €26 per person.
• Fire-roasted salmon, lingonberry sauce, campfire potatoes with herb filling €28 per person.
• Coffee brewed over a fire + sweet bun + campfire sausage €9 per person.
• Coffee brewed over a fire €4 per person.
Extra options:
• Accommodation: Hotel, apartment hotel or studio hotel. Ask for a quote.
• Farewell souvenir: You can buy a lure made by fishing guide
Janne Parviainen as a souvenir for €15.
Bookings and enquiries: Spa Hotel Rauhalahti
• E-mail: myynti@rauhalahti.fi
• Tel: +358 306 0830
Join us on the ”Tasting Kuopio” sightseeing tour, where we’ll enjoy delicious local tastes at restaurants outside the city centre, such as the revolving Puijo Tower Restaurant and the Holiday Resort Kuopion Saana on the shore of Lake Kallavesi. You can follow the footsteps of the legendary merchant Gustav Ranin on a tour of the Lignell & Piispanen distillery and hear more of his story at the historic Koivumäki Manor.
On the bus tour, you’ll hear about Kuopio ’s past and present, plus its notable attractions such as Puijo, Lake Kallavesi and Saaristokaupunki –the town of islands – as well as about the restaurants and their owners and a lot more!
Duration: The bus tour takes about 4,5 hours.
Location/Starting point: The tour starts at 11.30 am from Kuopio City Hall, Tulliportinkatu 31, 70110 Kuopio.
Group size: Minimum 10 persons.
Availability: On request a year-round on weekdays.
Guiding languages: Finnish, English, German, Swedish.
Price (NET):
• 10-20 persons €98/person (VAT 0%), if the group has own bus.
• 10-20 persons €125/person (VAT 0%), if the bus is provided by Kuopion Oppaat ry (The Kuopio Guides Association).
• 21 persons or more €89/person (VAT 0%), if the group has own bus.
• 21 persons or more €103/person (VAT 0%),if the bus is provided by Kuopion Oppaat ry (The Kuopio Guides Association).
What’s included?
• A Three course meal which all are prepared of local ingredients.
• I.e. Welcome drink and starter plate at Puijo Tower restaurant.
• Main course at the Koivumäki Manor.
• Dessert and coffee at the Holiday Resort Kuopion Saana. Non-alcoholic drinks.
• Tour of the Lignell & Piispanen Distillery.
• At the end of the tour the customers are taken to the Kuopio Market Hall.
• The Group is accompanied by an authorized local guide.
For an extra charge:
Customers can purchase alcoholic and soft drinks in the restaurants. Bookings and enquiries: Kuopion Oppaat ry (The Kuopio Guides Association)
• E-mail: guideskuopio@gmail.com
• Web: www.kuopionoppaat.com
Gustav Emanuel Ranin (1825–1896) was one of the first wholesalers in Kuopio and also a shipowner. He started his business by buying products from the countryside, such as butter, tallow and tar, and exported them to Vyborg and St. Petersburg where they were exchanged for salt, sugar and coffee. As a shipowner, he had a fleet of several vessels, one of which is still in traffic.
In 1852, he founded a distillery in Kuopio to produce liquor, and he also imported quality whiskeys and cognac. The distillery was named Lignell & Piispanen, and it is still in business today. We get an opportunity to visit one of Finland’s oldest family businesses. On this distillery tour, we will hear how berry liqueur and other high-quality Finnish alcoholic drinks are made. Additionally, we learn about the history of Kuopio’s oldest commercial house. The story continues with a seasonal three-course dinner at Koivumäki Manor.
Duration: The tour takes about 45 minutes, the transfer to the manor about 30 minutes and the dinner about 2½ hours.
Location/Starting point:
• Distillery tour: Gust. Ranin / Lignell & Piispanen, Siikaranta 20, 70620 Kuopio.
• Dinner: Koivumäki Manor, Koivumäenkuja 18, 70800 Kuopio.
Group size: 10-50 people.
Availability: Tours are available for groups all year round on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
Not available on public holidays. Advance booking required.
Guiding languages: Finnish, English.
Price: €120/person incl. VAT.
What’s included?
• Guided tour of the distillery and a small tasting.
• Bus transport from Lignell & Piispanen to Koivumäki Manor and back.
• Three-course dinner prepared out of seasonal local ingredients at Koivumäki Manor, including drinks (aperitif, 2 x 12 cl of wine and dessert drink) and table service.
For an extra charge: You can buy the distillery’s products to take with you at the distillery shop. Bus transport from Kuopio city centre to the distillery and/or back. Additional drinks with dinner.
Bookings and enquiries: Koivumäen Kartano Oy
• E-mail: kartano@koivumaenkartano.com
• Tel. +358 17 361 4291
• Web: www.koivumaenkartano.com
Gustav Emanuel Ranin (1825–1896) was one of the first wholesalers and also a shipowner in Kuopio. He started his business by buying products from the countryside, such as butter, tallow and tar, and exported them to Vyborg and St. Petersburg where they were exchanged for salt, sugar and coffee. As he was also a shipowner, he had a fleet of several vessels, one of which is still in traffic.
Come and learn about the merchant Gustav Ranin and his magnificent family manor at Hiltulanlahti in Kuopio. The history of the Björkbacka estate dates back to 1792 when the estate was founded by the Swedish Crown. Mr. Ranin bought the estate at a forced sale in 1869.
After learning about the history of the man and the estate, you can enjoy a delicious lunch all year around in an exquisite manor setting.
Duration: The guided tour takes about 45 min with an additional 15 min for questions/discussion; lunch 1-1½ hours.
Location/Starting point: Koivumäki Manor, Koivumäenkuja 18, 70800 Kuopio.
Group size: A minimum of 6 people is required for the guided tour; the maximum is 50.
Availability: All year around by arrangement for groups. Guiding languages: Finnish, English, German.
Price: €36,90/person incl. VAT. Payment on arrival by cash or card. What’s included?
• Guided tour of Koivumäki Manor with historical background on Gustav Ranin.
• Summer lunch at the manor with starters.
• Your choice of hot dish (meat/fish/vegetarian).
• Non-alcoholic drinks.
• Dessert and coffee/tea.
For an extra charge: Alcoholic drinks. How to get there: Participants should make their own way to the manor. No. 31 city bus from Tulliportinkatu in Kuopio city centre: departure 9.15 am, arrival 9.59 am. Return departure 1.02 pm, arrival 1.43 pm.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings and enquiries: Koivumäen Kartano Oy. Bookings in advance by 3 pm on the previous day (Monday).
• Email: kartano@koivumaenkartano.com
• Tel. +358 17 361 4291,
• Web: www.koivumaenkartano.com
Fun e-bike tour exploring the Tahko Mountain Resort. Tahko offers many great and peaceful nature trails for bikers of all skill levels, not to men tion the cleanest air in Europe. With the electric bike you will be smiling throughout your entire ride, even on the uphills while enjoying specta cular vistas on Tahko mountain. Tours available also during winter and evening or day. You may explore the trails on your own, please contact us for accommodation and rental packages.
Starting point in Sääskiniementie 560 in the center of Tahko village. Re member to dress appropriately for the weather.
Duration: 2 hours.
Location/Starting point: Start from Tahko Safarit rental shop.
Group size: 3-9 persons (larger groups on request).
Availability: Year round, weather permitting.
Guiding language: Finnish, English.
Price:
• E-bike tour €90.
• Accommodation at Hotel Ukko for two nights
• From €180 in a room for two persons.
• From €290 in a room for four persons.
What’s included?
• Cosy accommodation in the centre of the Tahko area.
Hotel Ukko features a total of 15 unique rooms: eight quadruple rooms with sauna and balcony, six terraced twin rooms and one terraced family room for five. Price is inclusive of accommodation in Ukko, bedlinen, towels, final cleaning, 2-hour guided e-bike tour, bike and helmet).
How to get there: A 1-hour drive from Kuopio city centre and from Kuopio airport. (Address: Hotel Ukko, Ukontie 7, FIN-73310 Tahkovuori) Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings and enquiries: Tahko Chalet
• E-mail: sales office:sales@tahkochalet.fi,
• Tel. +358 17 483 200
• Web: www.tahkochalet.fi
AR tour at Pielavesi, the birth town of Urho Kekkonen, brings the legendary Urho Kekkonen to life by using augmented reality.
Urho Kekkonen was a Finnish politician who served as the eighth and longest-serving President of the Republic of Finland from 1956 until 1982. As head of state for over 25 years, he dominated Finnish politics being a very powerful, sometimes controversial but still a respected figu re. Today he remains a Finnish legend. Join in to hear stories about the life of Kekkonen: from his childhood at Pielavesi to presidency and to the loss of his beloved wife.
AR tour starts from Lepikon Torppa, the home place of Kekkonen, and continues to the Pielavesi church village. Five framed pictures represent five different time periods or themes in the life of Kekkonen. They can be explored in order or separately. AR technology brings the pictures to life: when you point the camera of your mobile device towards the framed picture while the Salmi AR app is running, Kekkonen comes alive in the picture!
The app guides you from one story to another around Pielavesi town. The framed pictures at the Pielavesi town hall can be experienced during opening hours. The staff at Lepikon torppa will help with the use of the tour in summer time (June-August).
Duration: about 1 hour.
Location/Starting point: Lepikon Torppa, Urho Kekkosentie 121, 72400 Pielavesi.
Availability: Around the year, self guided tour.
Guiding languages: Spoken language Finnish, Subtitles in English.
Price: Free of charge.
What’s included?
• Five stories about the life of President Urho Kekkonen. What is needed?
• A smart phone and the Salmi AR app (download from Google Play Store or iOS Apple Store).
How to get there: 1 hour drive from the Kuopio Airport and from Kuopio City centre.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings and enquiries:
• June to August enquiries from Lepikon Torppa:
• E-mail: kahvio@lepikontorppa.fi
• Tel. +358 40 489 4827
• September to May enquiries from Pielavesi:
• E-mail: jani.alakangas@pielavesi.fi
Lignell & Piispanen is an alcohol producer founded in 1852, second ol dest family business in Finland still owned by the same family. L&P Visitor Center is located by Lake Kallavesi in Siikaranta, Kuopio, Finland. Visitor Center offers customers Factory Tours, Tastings, and also factory store Kauppahuone and Arctic Bar, where you can enjoy our products and signature cocktails. Our Visitor Center offers experiences to all senses.
The Factory Tour allows you to get to know us and our impressive 170year history with the stories from the past and present. It introduces different types of production methods of alcohol beverages and pure, natural incredients (eg. wild berries, nordic botanicals) which are used to produce our internationally awarded products such as Gustav Metsä Gin, Vodkas and Liqueurs by using our filosophy: ”From Forest to Glass”.
During the Tasting, you are introduced to five different L&P products. Products are not only tasted but you are told the inside stories behind the products and manufacturing methods, as well as recommendations for use. You will also learn in more depth about the pure, natural incredients used to make the products in question.
Welcome to visit the one and only organic distillery in the heart of Tah ko resort. This unique distillery operates with restaurant Hophaus from where you have a straight view to the distillery. The distillery together with Hophaus invest to quality being full of feelings, aromas and tastes. The distillery produces many kind of distillates but the main products are organic gin and rye whiskey. Herbs, berries, and pure local water – this is what Tahko Gin is made of!
During the distillery tour and tasting our Head Stillman tells about the history and production of local gin. After the tour we will taste different kinds of gin mixtures. Wonderful experiences for friends of gin!
Duration: 1,5-2 hours.
Location/Starting point: Lignell & Piispanen Visitor Center, Siikaranta 20, 70620 Kuopio.
Group size: 6-30 persons (60 if group devided into two groups). Age limit is 18 years.
Availability for groups: All year around on request basis. Open tours/tastings: Check schedules online: lignellpiispanen.com/en/visitor-center
Guiding languages: Finnish, English (German and Japanese in paper).
Price: €40 per person incl. VAT.
What’s included?
• Guided factory tour
• Tasting of 5 different products.
How to get there: Distance to Kuopio city centre about 3 km (5 minutes by car or bus).
Accessible for people with disabilities: Yes.
Bookings and enquiries:
• E-mail: visit@lignellpiispanen.fi
• Tel. +358 44 301 9325.
• Web: www.lignellpiispanen.com/en
Duration: 1,5 h.
Location/Starting point: Break Sokos Hotel Tahko/Restaurant Hophaus, Sääskiniementie 560, 73310 Tahkovuori.
Group size: Minimum 12 persons – bigger groups can be divided into several smaller groups.
Availability: All year round on request basis.
Guiding languages: Finnish, English.
Price: €42/person incl. VAT
What’s included:
• Guided tour
• Tasting of three different gin
Requirements for participants: Minimum age limit 18 years.
How to get there: A 1-hour drive from Kuopio city centre and from Kuopio airport.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings and commissions: Break Sokos Hotel Tahko,
• E-mail: sales.peeassa@sok.fi
• Tel. +358107629550
E-bikes are suitable for everyone, also for beginners as they are very easy to use. By adjusting the electric assistance you can choose how challen ging your ride will be. For more of a challenge, you can also bike without the electric assistance.
We will guide you in using the bike and set it ready for you at our safari house before we head to the Tahko area by bike. Our guides will choose the best routes for you at the beautiful Lakeland area.
Pehku is a unique slopeside restaurant on the top of Tahko, one of the most popular holiday resorts in Finland. It boasts a breath-taking scenery 300 meters above sea level and a relaxed atmosphere with walls full of history.
Pehku is a truly beautiful place all round the year, but it is mostly famous for its after-ski parties. In late evenings, Pehku is taken over by music, rhythms and dancing, as skiers come in to dance, the most daring ones even on the log tables, having the time of their lives.
You can customise your after-ski experience to also include a visit to a wood-heated sauna with a view, and after relaxing in the sauna, you can enjoy a delicious Savonian fondue dinner at Pehku. These services are available on request at separate prices.
Duration: 2 hours (including driving instructions and ride).
Location/Starting point: Wild Nordic Finland Tahko safarihouse, Sääskiniementie 560, 73310 Tahkovuori.
Group size: Minimum: 6 pax.
Availability: Full year round upon request.
Guiding languages: English, Finnish.
Price: €70/pax.
What is included:
• Guiding service
• Bike and helmet
Please note:
The size of the bike is suitable for drivers from 150 cm to 195 cm. How to get there: A 1-hour drive from Kuopio city centre and from Kuopio airport.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings and enquiries: Wild Nordic Finland / Tahko
• Web: www.wildnordic.fi
• E-mail: tahko@villipohjola.fi
• Tel: +358 50 058 8888
Duration: 3 hours.
Location/Starting point: On top of the Tahko hill. Pehkuntie 457, 73310 Nilsiä.
Group size: Sauna max. 20 persons, bar about 120 persons. Availability: 31.12.2021–15.4.2022 on Fridays and Saturdays.
Service languages: Finnish, English.
Price: No entrance fee to the restaurant, other services charged separately.
How to get there: A 1-hour drive from Kuopio city centre. Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings and enquiries: Pehku Bar;
• E-mail: pehku@tahko.com,
• Tel. +358 44 048 1488
” Best routes for you at the beautiful Lakeland area
Come and join an adventure in the deep shadows of the forest at Metsä kartano Youth and Nature Centre, where the air is as clean as it gets and where you really can hear the sound of silence. Go on a guided nature expedition snowshoeing or hiking on forest trails and have a rest by a campfire after a relaxing visit to the sauna. Feel energy running through your veins after dipping in the lake, or let the gentle waves carry your canoe on a warm summer day.
Adventures for friends and families are available all year round at Metsä kartano. Cosy high-quality accommodation, tasty local delicacies, friendly service and an assortment of outdoor and indoor activities guarantee unforgettable experiences for you. Metsäkartano is the perfect place to have an active holiday! Small wonders of nature are present right at the doorstep. Explore Finnish wildlife with snowshoes or try out real off-track skis. Take a kick sled and go for a meditative session of ice-hole fishing. Summer days are perfect for mountain biking, hiking and swimming in the clean lake.
After a good dose of fresh air and outdoor exercise, go and relax in the sauna and enjoy hearty local delicacies. Metsäkartano is located only a 1.5-hour drive from Kuopio airport and is suitable for groups (10–80 persons) and FITs.
SERVICES: Accommodation, restaurant, cafeteria, snack & souvenir shop, equipment rental, guided activities. Accommodation is available in five holiday apartments for families, with sleeping facilities for up to 11 people each (altogether 39 beds). The apartments include 1–3 bed rooms, a sleeping loft (with 4–5 beds and a toilet), kitchen, living room, bathroom/sauna and balcony. Additionally, there are two guesthouses (with altogether 29 wilderness hotel rooms) available.
WINTER ACTIVITIES: Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, altai skiing (sliding showshoeing), ice fishing, kicksledding, alpine curling, snow fun.
SUMMER ACTIVITIES: Mountain biking, hiking, swimming, canoeing, archery, listening to the silence.
INDOOR ACTIVITIES: Sports hall, gym, climbing wall, yoga, archery, handicrafts (bone / stone jewellery workshop), water rocket workshop.
Duration: 3 nights.
Location/Starting point: Metsäkartanontie 700, 73900 Rautavaara.
Group size: 4–35 persons.
Availability: Around the year in 2022. Guiding languages: Finnish, English.
Price: €424/person.
What’s included? Accommodation, full board (breakfast, lunch, din ner), three activities with guide services (approx. 5 hours divided over 3 days, for example).
Duration: 5 nights.
Location/Starting point: Metsäkartanontie 700, 73900 Rautavaara. Group size: 4–35 persons.
Availability: Around the year in 2022. Guiding languages: Finnish, English. Price: €582/person.
What’s included? Accommodation, full board (breakfast, lunch, din ner), three activities with guide services (approx. 5 hours divided over 3 days, for example).
How to get there:
The nearest railway stations are in Siilinjärvi (about 100 km away) and in Kuopio (about 127 km away). The taxi connection from Siilinjärvi to Metsäkartano takes about 1.5 hours. The nearest airport is 1 hour 30 minutes away by car and is easy to reach by taxi or pre-ordered flat-rate airport transfers.
Accessible for people with disabilities: Yes.
Clothing: For the outdoor activities, dress up according to the weather and season.
Bookings and enquiries: Metsäkartano
• E-mail: myynti@metsakartano.com
• Tel. +358 40 839 6352
• Web: www.metsakartano.com/en
Panorama Bar is situated at the Tahko ski resort, on top of the Tahko hill. The restaurant is open all year round, during the days for the skiers and during the evenings based on prior table reservations.
Panorama is a restaurant built of logs and has seating for 90 persons inside and for a further 110 persons in the warm pavilion. Panorama also has a scenic terrace, sauna and spring-water hot tub. The water comes straight from a spring situated at the top of the hill.
Dine in the fabulous scenic surroundings on top of the Tahko hill, over looking Lake Syväri. You do not have to climb the hill yourself – just enjoy the ride on board the big red snow groomer, the king of the slopes. The tasty dinner menus take you on a delicious food journey based on Finnish culinary traditions, and the gorgeous scenic restaurant is an ideal place for those who love great views. The dishes available on the menu are made of Finnish ingredients.
You can come to Panorama by car, by climbing the formidable Tahko stairs, by riding the chairlift and during wintertime by riding Panorama’s own snow groomer. The snow groomer seats 16 people and reaches the top of the hill in about 15 minutes.
Appetizer:
Cured whitefish tartare, whitefish roe and Scandinavian malt and rye bread, sour cream, red onion, dill and lemon
OR Wild mushroom soup with bacon, churned butter and rye bread OR Antipasto à la Savonia: smoked cold cuts, perch tart, smoked vendace, pickles, venison tartelette, cheese and carrot compote
Main course:
Robber’s roast (in Finnish “rosvopaisti”; pork that has been cooked for at least 8 hours in the earth oven), thyme and red wine sauce and oven-roasted vegetables
OR Blazed salmon (i.e. cooked on a plank at an open fire) with ovenroasted vegetables and chanterelle sauce
Dessert:
Finnish blueberry pie with rye crust and vanilla ice cream OR Cloudberry tiramisu
Duration: 3–4 hours.
Location/Starting point: The station at the foot of the Tahko hill.
Group size: Min. 4 persons.
Availability: All year round, during the winter the availability of snow groomer transportation depends on the weather.
Guiding languages: Finnish, English, Italian, German.
Price:
• €69/adult
• €39/child of 10–15 years
• €25/child under 10 years
What’s included? A served three-course menu, transportation to Kabiini from the foot of the hill and back down. The prices do not include alcoholic drinks.
How to get there: During the winter by the snow groomer or by an 8-seater minibus, in the summer you can also climb up the Tahko stairs or come by car.
Accessible for people with disabilities: Yes.
Other options:
• Scenic sauna and spring-water hot tub.
Duration: 2 hours.
Max. 12 people.
Price: €390 (plus a towel for €10/person and swimsuit or swim trunks for €7/person).
• Scenic sauna and spring-water hot tub + Kabiini dinner
Price: €99/person.
Min. 4 people.
Bookings and enquiries: Harri Jokela
• E-mail: info@panoramabar.fi
• Tel. +358 440 493 462
The gorgeous scenic restaurant is an ideal place for those who love great views ”
Are you ready for entertaining evening? Come with your friends, fami ly or work colleagues to spend the most entertaining dinner party in town. Enjoy good music or fantastic show full of laughter, excitement, music and surprises. Sawohouse Underground offers a delicious dinner combined with an entertaining show. Evenings can include music gigs, theater evenings or stand up comics with a delicious 4 course high-end dinner. You choose what kind of evening you would like to have!
Event packages are the easiest way to arrange a party; you choose the event and menu and we handle the rest.
Duration: 4-6h.
Location/Starting point: Boutique Hotel Sawohouse, Sawohouse Underground, Tarhakuja 1, 70780 Kuopio.
Group size: 15 - 300 persons.
Availability: year round. Guiding languages: Finnish, English.
Price: €95/ person.
What’s included:
• A 4-hour show with varied artists
• A delicious 4-course Sawohouse´s show & dinner menu (or vegan)
• Reserved tables for your group in a dining area of the Nightclub
• Tickets for the show
• Coat check
Note: Show&Dinner event packages are available only event /gig nights. You can find the list of coming events from our web pages www.sawohouse.fi/underground/ Supplements: Accommodation possibilities in Hotel SawoHouse. How to get there: 10 minutes drive from Kuopio centre, also free bus connection is arranged by Sawohouse during gig nights. Accessible for people with disabilities: Yes. Bookings and commissions: from SawoHouse.
• E-mail: sales(at)sawohouse.fi
• Web: sawohouse.fi/kauppa
During this SUP beginner tour, you will learn all the basics of Stand Up Paddling in a safe environment. The skills will include getting on the board and standing up, how to use the board and paddle, and basic paddling techniques.
The tour will start at our SUP center where we dress into wetsuits and have a safety brief. The only way to learn paddling is in the water, so after the short safety brief on dry land we will start the paddling tour.
Our guide helps you throughout the tour and gives you enough challenges on the board regardless of whether you are a first timer or have done Stand Up Paddling before.
This tour is also suitable for children starting from 10 years.
Please note:
• Personal belongings will be kept at our SUP center
• We recommend you bring a bottle of water for the trip
• Please wear clothes depending on the weather. We recommend you bring dry clothes in case you get wet.
Duration: 1 hour (including instructions).
Location/Starting point: Wild Nordic Finland Tahko safarihouse, Sääskiniementie 560, 73310 Tahkovuori.
Group size: minimum: 6 pax.
Availability: on request 1.5. - 30.9.
Guiding languages: English, Finnish.
Price: €45/pax
What is included?
• Guiding
• SUP-board with leash
• Paddle and life vest
How to get there: A 1-hour drive from Kuopio city centre and from Kuopio airport.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings and enquiries: Wild Nordic Finland / Tahko
• Web: www.wildnordic.fi
• E-mail: tahko@villipohjola.fi
• Tel: +358 50 058 8888
White snow and a taste of freedom - with this easy snowmobile safari you will have a first touch to the world of snowmobiling.
Our guides will take care of you and choose the safe route and give you driving instructions. You will take it easy and have time and a possibility to admire the beautiful nature around you.
Duration: 2 hours (including driving instructions and ride).
Location/Starting point: Wild Nordic Finland Tahko safarihouse, Sääskiniementie 560, 73310 Tahkovuori.
Group size: minimum: 2 pax.
Availability: 3.1. - 31.3. daily at 14h00 (according to the prevailing weather conditions).
Guiding languages: English, Finnish.
Price: €115/adult (2 pax/snowmobile)
Optional service:
Single driving supplement with snowmobile + €55/pax
What is included?
• Guiding
• Snowmobile (2 pax/snowmobile)
• Winter equipment
How to get there: A 1-hour drive from Kuopio city centre and from Kuopio airport.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings and enquiries: Wild Nordic Finland/Tahko
• Web: www.wildnordic.fi
• E-mail: tahko@villipohjola.fi
• Tel: +358 50 058 8888
White snow and a taste of freedom – a first touch to the world of snowmobiling
Who is the bowling champion of your team?
Bowling is great fun and even more so when you can compete with each other. We can promise cheerful shouting, in-game and winning celebra tions and laughter.
How about a few drinks during the competition? Afterwards, enjoy tasty food at Restaurant Riemu.
Törmälä has a long history, going back to the 18th century, when it served as the local vicarage, known in Finnish as Kosken pappila. The vicarage was home to chaplains for 250 years. In those days, most of the travelling and cargo transportation in Finnish Lakeland took place on waterways. Big boats with up to twenty oars carried families and village people to church on Sundays.
Nowadays, the Törmälä Holiday and Course Centre is privately owned, and the long history of the place is treasured in the peaceful ambiance that invites you to relax amidst the daily grind.
At Törmälä, you have a unique chance to try out the legendary church boat on the clear waters of Lake Hankavesi.
The traditional church boat, baptised Alfrid, has seven pairs of oars and carries 14 people plus the steersman. On a 30-minute boat trip to Raja saari Island, you can admire the magnificent nature of Finnish Lakeland while learning to row the church boat together with your teammates. On the island, we will have coffee made on a campfire and freshly baked traditional Finnish sweet buns. After learning the secrets of rowing, you will have time to enjoy the tranquillity of nature while making your way back.
Duration: 1.5–2 hours.
Location/Starting point: Tahko Spa, Keitaankatu 1, 73310 Tahko.
Group size: 6–12 persons.
Availability: All year round.
Guiding language: Finnish, English.
Price: €30/person.
What’s included?
• Guided playful bowling competition
• Competition host/hostess services
• Use of bowling shoes
• Competition planning
• Prizes and a ceremonial announcement of the winner
Supplements:
Drinks during the competition at extra cost at Bowling Bar. How to get there: The nearest railway stations are in Siilinjärvi (about 40 km away) and in Kuopio (about 67 km away). The taxi connection from Siilinjärvi to Tahko takes about half an hour. The nearest airport is less than a one-hour drive away and is easy to reach by taxi or pre-ordered flat-rate airport transfers.
Accessible for people with disabilities: Yes.
Bookings and enquiries: Tahko Spa Hotel/Sales Department,
• E-mail: sales@tahkospa.fi
• Tel. +358 20 747 9910
Duration: 2 hours.
Location/Starting point: Konnekoskentie 552, 77700 Rautalampi.
Group size: 8–14 persons.
Availability: June–October.
Guiding languages: English, Finnish, German, Swedish.
Price: From €30/person.
What’s included?
• Use of the church boat
• Life jackets (must be worn at all times on the water)
• Rowing and steersman service
• Coffee with sweet bun
Option: Sauna by the lake €10/person, lunch €10/person, a night’s stay from €40/person.
How to get there: A 15-minute drive from Rautalampi town centre (10 km away), a 1-hour-drive from Kuopio (92 km away) and Jyväskylä (88 km away), the two cities where the nearest airports are located. A halfan-hour drive from Suonenjoki railway station (30 km away).
Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Also suitable for families with children.
Bookings and enquiries: Bookings to be made at least two days in advance.
• Web: www.tormala.fi
• E-mail: info@tormala.fi
• Tel. +358 40 558 2439
Bowling is great fun and even more so when you can compete with each other ”
The Tahko ski resort is famous for its perfectly groomed slopes. The downhill skiing season starts here in December and lasts until April. Tahko has different slopes ranging from easy ones suitable for beginners to those used for international competitions.
There are 15 lifts available to conveniently take you up to the top. The longest slope is over 1 km long, and the biggest vertical drop is 200 m.
If you prefer freestyle skiing, Tahko Freestyle Park and Tahko Park have rails and boxes where you can put your skills to the test. For beginners, Tahko offers many safe and fun snow activities available at Tahko Kids Slopestyle.
• 24 slopes, 11 illuminated
• 15 lifts: 8 T-bar lifts, 4 button lifts, 2 chairlifts, 1 carpet lift
• Lift capacity 18,500 skiers / hour
• Elevation difference 200 m
• Longest slope 1,200 m
• 6 campfire places
• 6 slopeside restaurants
Guided skiing courses and private lessons are arranged daily for people of all ages, so don´t hesitate to contact Tahko Mountain Ski School for your own instruction that is guaranteed to be fun.
The ski school is about learning new skills and experiencing unforgettable moments on the snow. Let’s improve your technique – and most of all, have a great time on the snow together with our skilled instructors. We give lessons in alpine skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, tele mark and adaptive skiing at all skill levels.
Our friendly and supportive instructors will be happy to help you achieve your goals. What would you like to learn next?
Duration: 50/100/150 minutes.
Location/Starting point: Ski school meeting point, Tahko Mountain. Tahkolaaksontie 1, 73310 Tahkovuori.
Group size: Private lessons 1–3 persons, group lessons min. 4 persons.
Availability: Winter season, December–April.
Guiding languages: English and Finnish, during the holiday seasons also Russian, German, Estonian and Swedish.
Price:
• Private lessons 50 min/€55+€20 for each extra person
• 100 min/€100+€40 for each extra person
• Group lessons 100 min/€50 per person and 150 min/€70 per person
What’s included?
• Instruction
• Ski pass during the lesson
Additional fees: Rental equipment at SkiMac Tirol or Hill Ski rent. Accessible for people with disabilities: Yes, adaptive alpine skiing on request.
Bookings and enquiries: Tahko Mountain Ski School
• E-mail: skischool@tahkomountain.fi
• Tel. +358 400 681 792
Additional information: www.tahkomountain.fi/tahko-ski-school
Join us on a paddling trip into the dusk to enjoy the twilight. The peace of the national park, waves splashing on the sides of the kayak, red hues of the setting sun and the delicious snack consisting of local products enjoyed on a small island. These elements create their own unique atmosphere, which is sure to be remembered for many years to come.
The first people to move to Southern Konnevesi came right after the Ice Age. Ever since, the lake has been both a fairway and a source of food for distant travellers and locals alike. On this trip, we get to look at the same lakeside cliffs by this ancient waterway as those travellers of the past and paddle in their wake.
Duration: 3 hours, length 5 km.
Location/Starting point: Hanhitaipale harbour, Satamatie 143, 77700 Rautalampi.
Group size: 5–8 persons.
Availability: The trip is available during the paddling season between 1 May and 30 September. Guiding languages: Finnish, English.
Price:
€79/person, minimum price €237, which includes 1–3 paddlers. For groups over 8 persons, the price is €55/person. The price includes VAT. What’s included?
• The use of the kayaks or canoes
• The services of the guide
• Coffee/tea/juice.
For extra fee: For an extra €20/person, the trip can be extended to 5 hours, during which we paddle approximately 14 km and return around midnight.
After a short initial instruction, we will paddle under the cliff of Saukko saari, look for signs of beavers and greet the old man, Käpynän Ukko, whose face can be seen on the cliff as he watches over the peace of the park.
During the trip, we will stop at a small rocky island called Varpusenlinna, where we will enjoy some coffee, tea and a snack consisting of local pro ducts. During this break, we will have time to settle down for a moment and listen to the story of iron, about how local people collected iron ore from the lake and produced it into iron over many centuries. The trip is suitable also for less experienced paddlers and for those who want to enjoy the peace of the national park, because we will paddle slowly in the calm waters.
How to get there: The closest airports are in Jyväskylä 90 km away (travel time by car 1 h 15 min) and in Kuopio 98 km away (travel time 1 h 25 min). There is no public transportation from the airports to the Kalaja parking lot. In Jyväskylä or Kuopio, you can rent a car or get a taxi. The closest railway station is in Suonenjoki 35 km away (travel time 35 min). You can also take a taxi from the railway station.
Requirements for participants: All participants must know how to swim, and children under 18 years can only participate together with their guardian or by their guardian’s written permission.
Weather appropriate clothing is required.
Bookings and enquiries: KalajaRetkeily - Outdoor Adventures Finland
• E-mail: info@kalajaretkeily.fi.
• Tel. +358 40 526 8562
• Web: www.kalajaretkeily.fi/en
The first people to move to Southern Konnevesi came right after the Ice Age
On arrival at the Lassila farm, the participants will be given a short presentation on the farm and Jenni Linnove Ceramics Studio. In the workshop, each participant will decorate a mug from the studio’s collection by hand. The participants design their own decorations while Jenni (ceramic artist) provides help and guidance.
The decorated mugs will be glazed and fired after the workshop. The finished mugs can be collected from the studio or delivered by arrangement. The mugs withstand normal use and are dishwasher proof.
Duration: The workshop itself lasts just under 2 hours. With lunch or coffee at the farmhouse approx. 3 hours.
Location/Starting point: Ceramics Studio Jenni Linnove, Kaatrontie 13, 71820 Pöljä.
Group size: 4–12 persons, but can be adjusted to some extent as necessary.
Availability: Bookable all year round on request. Guiding languages: Finnish, English (some help can also be provided in Swedish and German).
Price:
• Mug decorating €30/person (incl. VAT).
• For groups, mug decorating and a light lunch at the farmhouse €50/person.
• For groups, Mug decorating with coffee at the farmhouse €45/person.
What’s included?
• A half-finished mug from the Ceramics Studio collection.
• Guidance, required colours, use of tools and aprons.
• Glazing and firing of the mug after the course.
• For groups with an advance booking, a presentation on making mugs and light refreshments at the workshop.
For an extra charge: Additional ceramic articles, mugs and plates for decorating €8/item. By arrangement, lunch or coffee at the farmhouse with a presentation on the history of the house.
Supplements: The Ceramics Studio shop sells the studio’s own products and those of local design/craft businesses. In July and early August, a Summer Exhibition in the studio loft. In December, Lassila’s Christmas events. The studio’s other workshops, such as raku firing. How to get there: Jenni Linnove Ceramics Studio is located a 30-mi nute drive from Kuopio (30 km north of Kuopio) and 7 km north of Siilinjärvi
Accessible for people with disabilities: Yes
Bookings and enquiries: Jenni Linnove Ceramics Studio
• E-mail: info@jennilinnove.com
North Savo is one of the places where plenty of Karelian evacuees sett led down in 1945, bringing along their Karelian and Orthodox culture. In Iisalmi region, there is a vibrant Karelian community and baking is still one the ways to keep socializing.
One of the most famous delicacy is Karelian pie. The pie is made of rye dough with rice porridge inside and traditionally it’s enjoyed with spread made of eggs and butter.
The most tricky part is the crimping technique of the pie and that’s why it’s important that the art of baking is moved from the one generation to another. Now you have a possibility to see and learn how to bake these traditional pies and enjoy them in real Orthodox atmosphere.
Duration: 2,5 hours.
Location/Starting point: Hotel Golden Dome, Kyllikinkatu 8, 74100 Iisalmi.
Group size: 6 to 20 persons.
Availability: All year round.
Guiding languages: Finnish, English.
Price:(NET): €45 /person.
What’s included?
• You will learn to make a pie crust and pie crimping technique under the guidance of a professional pie maker.
• You will hear some stories about the history of the area and culture.
• After baking you can enjoy the atmosphere of the Byzantine Hall while eating self-made pies with several toppings and drinking tea or coffee.
• Participants will receive a rolling pin and the recipe of the Karelian pies to take home.
Good to know:
• Aprons and protective caps are available at the hotel.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No.
Supplements: Vegetable soup + 10 € / person.
Bookings and enquiries:
• E-mail: sales@goldendome.fi
• Tel. +358 (0)44 752 9196
KARELIAN PIE WORKSHOPTörmälä has a long history, going all the way back to the 18th century, when it served as the local vicarage, known in Finnish as Kosken pappila. The vicarage was home to chaplains for 250 years. The original Savonian barley bread has been – and still is – one of the most beloved freshly baked goods on the table. It is round, chubby, luscious and slightly sour.
At Törmälä, you have a unique chance to bake your own Savonian barley bread – naturally you get to taste it yourself, too!
First we start with a cup of coffee together with the matron’s freshly baked Finnish sweet buns while listening to the eventful history of the old vicarage. Baking Savonian barley bread takes a bit of time and patience. The matron will guide you through the whole baking process and teach you the importance of shaping the bread profile in your own personal style. That way you can make it perfect!
While the bread rises in its due time, you can enjoy lunch or dinner. You can also bake a loaf of braided sweet bread to take home as a surprise. The best part is when the breads are baked in the big wood-heated oven and you get to enjoy the lovely aroma. Let’s see if you can wait until you get home before you taste it!
Duration: 3 hours.
Location/Starting point: Konnekoskentie 552, 77700 Rautalampi.
Group size: 5–40 persons.
Availability: All year round.
Guiding languages: English, Finnish, German, Swedish.
Price: From €40/person.
What’s included?
• Guided baking, your warm bread to take home with you.
• Coffee with traditional Finnish sweet delicacy.
• Home-cooked lunch or dinner.
Option: A night’s stay from €40/person, sauna by the lake €10/person How to get there: A 15-minute drive from Rautalampi town centre (10 km away), a 1-hour drive from Kuopio (92 km away) and Jyväskylä (88 km away), the two cities where the nearest airports are located. A half-an-hour drive from Suonenjoki railway station (30 km away).
Accessible for people with disabilities: Yes.
Also suitable for families with children.
Bookings & enquiries: Holiday and Course Center Törmälä Bookings to be made at least two days in advance.
• E-mail: info@tormala.fi
• Tel.+358 40 558 2439
• Web: www.tormala.fi
In the summer, new opportunities are available for tourists in Kuopio to get acquainted with the city and the surrounding lake Kallavesi by Hop-On Hop-Off bus and boat.
The bus runs between Kuopio’s most important tourist destinations se veral times a day, and the boat takes you to the magnificent sauna pa radise Saana. The tour continues twice a day to the versatile Rauhalahti resort, where you can find the spa and even enjoy the traditional lumber jack evening program.
Hop-on Hop-off Tour gives a great opportunity for tourists to get to know Kuopio and its wonderful destinations such as e.g., Orthodox Church Museum Riisa, the city harbor and Puijo Tower. The bus leaves for the tour from Kuopio Market Square and you can hop on from several tourist attractions.
Duration: 1,5 - 2 hours.
Location/Starting point: Kuopio Market Place, Tulliportinkatu 31, 70110 Kuopio.
Group size: Bus capacity is 50 persons.
Availability: June-August.
Price: A day ticket.
Check prices and schedules at www.kuopiotahko.fi/en/hop-on-hop-off
Guiding languages: Finnish, English.
Tickets:
• At the Market Place; Tourist Information Office
• Reception of Original Sokos Hotel Puijonsarvi
• Reception of Spa Hotel Rauhalahti
• Reception of Holiday Center Rauhalahti
Mobile tickets:
• Vilkku-app
• Original Sokos Hotel Puijonsarvi’s online store
What’s included?
• A day ticket
How to get there: 20 minutes car drive from Kuopio Airport. Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings & enquiries:
• Tel. +358 44 785 6081
• Web: www.kuopiotahko.fi/en/hop-on-hop-off
(located 30 meters below the Vesileppis hotel)
Take a trip to the ice cave 30 meters underground to see all your beloved Moomin Valley characters as beautiful ice sculptures glittering with life!
Harvested all the way from a tiny lake in Finnish Lapland, the world’s clearest carving ice is used to showcase the Moomin Ice Cave’s won derful Moomin figures including a life-sized Moomintroll and Little My. Enjoy the additional winter playground by jumping on a snow tube to ride down an ice slide and hopping on the sleigh-go-round.
Get cozy in the Vesileppis Coffee Corner with a warm beverage, like hot chocolate or warm berry juice. Check out the Moomin Minishop with a wide selection of genuine Moomin products to collect your favorite items and souvenirs.
Every year there is a new Moomin story and exhibition on offer, so be sure to come back often to see how the new exhibition brings that year’s story to life!
Duration: 1–1.5 hours.
Location/Starting point: Vokkolantie 1, 70900 Leppävirta.
Group size: For self-guided tours, there is no limit to group size. Guided tours are required to have a minimum of 10 participants. Availability: 1.4.-28.8.2023.
Guiding languages: English (Russian on request).
Price:
• €15/adult and child of 4-17 years.
• €8/child of 1-3 years.
• €48/family ticket (2 adults + 2 children).
• €14/groups of 10 adults or more.
What’s included?
• Entrance to Moomin Ice Cave.
• Guided tour for groups (min. 10 persons).
Available at separate cost: Purchases at Moomin Minishop, Bistro Restaurant, Spa services, Coffee Corner, lunch. How to get there: We recommend a pre-arranged charter transfer from Kuopio or arrival by own car (driving time from Kuopio about 35 minutes).
Accessible for people with disabilities: Yes.
Bookings and enquiries: Sport & Spa Hotel Vesileppis
• E-mail: sales@vesileppis.fi
• Tel. +358 29 170 0170
Are you ready for a delightfull local tastes from Kuopio? Join us for a city walk and get acquainted with local Savonian delicacies and drinks.
We visit the Kuopio Market Hall, which was chosen as the most beautiful market hall in Finland in 2020, stalls at the Market Square and hear sto ries about the food culture and city of Kuopio.
Duration: 1,5 hours.
Location/Starting point: The Statue of Sister Girl, at the western end of the Market Hall of the Kuopio Market Square.
Kauppakatu 45, 70110 Kuopio.
Group size: 2-15 persons.
Availability: May - September 2022.
Price:
• €64/person, if 2-4 participants
• €47/person, if min 5 participants What’s included?
• Visit the Kuopio Market Hall
• Willimaku non-alcoholic sparkling drink
• Local delicacy Kalakukko
• Tour around the Kuopio Market Square
• Local berries or berry product of the season
• Coffee or tea served with a cake of season
• Guiding and stories by the Kuopio’s authorised guides
How to get there: 25 minutes drive from the Kuopio Airport.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings & enquiries: Kuopion Oppaat ry (The Kuopio Guides Association)
• E-mail: guideskuopio@gmail.com
• Web: www.kuopionoppaat.com
Visit the Kuopio Market Hall, which was chosen as the most beautiful market hall in Finland in 2020 ”
In 1877, Kalle Peter Lappalainen built the Hankaniemi manor house in a beautiful scenery by Lake Kiurujärvi and has proudly governed his estate ever since. Even though several generations have passed, it is believed that Kalle still keeps an eye on the estate in the figure of the Hankaniemi elf. Hankaniemi is currently managed by a new generation alongside with the elf.
Experience the soothing warmth of the smoke sauna while surrounded by a scenic lake view and enjoy the local delicacies of the manor house menu in the atmospheric log room!
When a group of guests arrives at the almost 150-year-old Hankaniemi manor, the “resident elf” greets them there and toasts them welcome. The welcome toast is Willimaku, a non-alcoholic sparkling drink that tastes like meadowsweet and is made locally in Kiuruvesi. Once the guests have enjoyed their drinks, the elf guides the group to the saunas waiting for them with their warmth. An important part of the Finnish sauna experience is to intermittently cool oneself down outside; in the winter, you can have a dip in the ice hole in the lake or roll in the snow, and in the summer, you can swim in the refreshingly cool lake. During the bathing, you can enjoy lingonberry juice and a small snack prepared by the Hankaniemi elf.
• Old Wife’s mushroom soup
• Manor house’s rye bread and Early bird’s oat bread
The Old Wife of the manor house collects the mushrooms herself in autumn and prepares them from start to finish during the full moon. The recipe is secret and is kept locked in Tähkälä barn.
Drinks:
• Hankaniemi elf’s home-made beer (non-alcoholic).
• Manor house’s lingonberry juice and water.
Main course:
• Local zander, caught by the head of the house.
• Local potatoes.
• Oven-roasted root vegetables.
• Horseradish sauce.
• Fresh vegetables and Kalle Peter’s cheese.
Dessert:
• Coffee, tea.
• Blueberries from Hankaniemi forest, baked in rye crust and served with vanilla sauce.
Duration: 4 hours.
Location/Starting point: Hankaniementie 110, 74700 Kiuruvesi.
Group size: 4–10 people.
Availability: All year round.
Guiding languages: Finnish, English. Price: €100/person.
What’s included?
• Welcome toast.
• Use of lakeside and smoke saunas.
• Use of a towel, a seat cover for the sauna.
To cap off the evening, the elf guides the group into the manor hou se, where dinner is waiting for them in the atmospheric log room. The Hankaniemi elf’s sauna menu contains locally produced foods and pure and tasty delicacies. After the dinner, the Hankaniemi elf tells stories about the manor house’s history, present day and future.
According to the legend, the Hankaniemi elf himself collects the forest berries needed in the house. It is believed that he goes around in the forest at night time collecting the berries, along with the Old Wife and her mushroom buckets. If the people of the house have behaved well during the year, then plenty of berry buckets will appear at the front door of the manor in the autumn – but if the people have behaved badly, there will be fewer berries.
• The dinner.
Additional services (for an extra charge): Alcoholic drinks at the saunas and the manor house.Transportation is available and can be booked from Blue Pearl. Transportation can be arranged to the bus stations or railway stations in Iisalmi or Kiuruvesi, for example. The drive time from Iisalmi to Blue Pearl is 30 minutes, price €120/round trip. The drive time from Kiuruvesi to Blue Pearl is 10 minutes, price €30/round trip. Accessible for people with disabilities: For more information, contact the provider Bookings and enquiries: Blue Pearl
• E-mail: sales@sininenhelmi.fi
• Tel. (+358) 0103407745
HANKANIEMI ELF’S MANOR HOUSE DINNER MENUAccording to the legend, the Hankaniemi elf himself collects the forest berries needed in the house ”SMOKE SAUNA OF HANKANIEMI ELF AND MANOR HOUSE DINNER MENU
A little more than one hundred years ago, Finland was a part of Russia. After gaining independence, the country had to fight the famous Winter War, as a result of which Finland ceded a large part of the area of Karelia to its eastern neighbour, and the Finns who had formerly lived there had to be evacuated. The city of Iisalmi in Upper Savo is one of the places where plenty of those evacuees settled down, bringing along their Ka relian and Orthodox culture. This culture is still strongly present in the Iisalmi region, and one of its greatest monuments is the Golden Dome. Enjoy peaceful moments with cultural history and local food at a unique venue under the Golden Dome!
Duration: 2.5 hours.
Location/Starting point: Hotel Golden Dome Iisalmi, Kyllikinkatu 8, 74100 Iisalmi.
Group size: 15–60 persons.
Availability: All year round, to be pre-booked. Guiding languages: English, Finnish.
Price:
• Buffet 35€/adult.
• Á la Carte 45€/ adult.
• Child of 4–12 years -50%.
Minimum booking 10 adults.
What’s included?
• Traditional local lunch/dinner of the season (menu of the day including starter, main course, dessert and coffee/tea, still water and hand-baked bread of the house).
Dinner example:
• Forest mushroom soup and hand-baked bread roll.
• Oven-baked pike-perch in creamy sauce with local potatoes.
• Berry pie.
• Coffee or tea.
• In addition to the meal, an introduction to the Byzantine restaurant hall and wall murals, an introduction to the religious history of the hotel building and a guided visit to the Orthodox church next door.
Hotel Golden Dome is a beautifully decorated unique boutique hotel in the city of Iisalmi, built by the local Orthodox parish with the rich roots of Karelian culture as its foundation. The dinner is served in the Byzantine-style hall that has a strongly spiritual atmosphere with its elegant murals. The guide will tell you the story of the hotel building and the murals. After dinner, the group will visit the stunning Orthodox church next door with an expert local guide.
Supplements: Accommodation at the hotel can be booked separately. How to get there: You can reach Hotel Golden Dome by car/charter bus from Kuopio in one hour or by train from Helsinki in 5.5 hours.
Bookings and enquiries: Hotel Golden Dome
• E-mail sales@goldendome.fi
• Tel. +358 (0)44 752 9196
Enjoy peaceful moments with cultural history and local food at a unique venue under the Golden Dome ”
Kuopion Saana combines a Finnish sauna experience, excellent restaurant services and a multitude of events and activities in one location These services together with the exceptional architecture and unique location right by Lake Kallavesi make Saana one of the most fascinating places to visit in the Lakeland area. Saana can easily be reached even by bike, or you can take a boat trip there.
In the summer, you can enjoy sunbathing and grilling on our huge terrace and cool yourself down by swimming in our outdoor pool or in the lake. You can relax in our spa that has a 30-seater mixed-gender sauna, an indoor hot tub, an experience shower and heated loungers. The spa’s outdoor area has a smoke sauna and two heated pools. After a 2-hour sauna experience it is time to taste great dishes in the Saana restaurant. The tasty food is prepared out of high-quality ingredients, always provided by local producers when possible. Beside the local food, Saana offers a wide range of local drinks. The RPS Brewery and the Lignell & Piispanen distillery are situated less than 1 km from Saana.
Lunch:
• Three-course lunch
• €11.30/person
• €7/ child under 10 years (incl. VAT):
Salad buffet, bread and soup from the buffet trolley, main course is served to table (always two options), water, coffee, tea, small dessert (buffet trolley).
Dinner menu:
• €36/person (incl. VAT):
Starter: Vegetable soup out of local vegetables
Main course: Fish of the day or beef with Saana´s special sauce and grilled seasonal vegetables, with a side dish of noodles or potatoes
Dessert: Fresh local berries with caramel sauce
• €18 for children under 10 years (incl. VAT):
Starter: Vegetable soup out of local vegetables
Main course: Kids’ burger with fries
Dessert: Ice cream with sauce.
Duration: 2 hours.
Location/Starting point: Siikaranta 12, 70620 Kuopio.
Group size: Min. 8 persons. (max. 28 women and 28 men in the group)
Availability: All year round.
Guiding languages: Finnish, English.
Price: €14/person.
What’s included?
• Use of towels.
• Entrance to Kuopion Saana Sauna and Spa: two mixed saunas (smoke sauna and electric sauna), two outdoor pools, jacuzzi, experience shower, heated loungers.
Note: All of our saunas are mixed-gender saunas which means that you must wear a swimsuit or swim trunks outside the changing rooms. For extra fee: We have a separate sauna also with a small private lounge and terrace which can be used exclusively for ladies or gentlemen (this sauna is called VIP-Saana, and more information about it is available on our website. The maximum capacity is 15 people, and the price is €350/15 people for three hours.
How to get there: Distance to Kuopio city centre about 3 km (5 minutes by car or bus), in the summertime a boat connection from Kuopio harbour.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings and enquiries:
• E-mail: info@kuopionsaana.fi
• Tel. +358 44 724 0940
• Web: www.kuopionsaana.fi
A Finnish sauna experience, excellent restaurant services and a multitude of events and activities ”PHOTO: KUOPIO-TAHKO MARKKINOINTI
During this trip you will experience the landscape and terrains of Tahko by hiking. Trip starts from Wild Nordic safarihouse and continues to this beautiful gorge. The place has been challenging to reach and almost a hidden destination, but it has now been refurbished for everyone to experience. About 150 meters of stairs and duckboards have been built into the gorge and it is easy to visit with the guide. During the trip we also stop for a coffee by the campfire, from where you see the beautiful scenery of lakes and islands of Tahko area.
Our route offers us great views to the lake Kallavesi. s/y Sälen, a historical ship was built in 1929 and offers a wonderful boat to relax!
Duration: 2 - 2,5 hours (including instructions).
Location/Starting point: Wild Nordic Finland Tahko safarihouse, Sääskiniementie 560, 73310 Tahkovuori.
Group size: minimum: 6 pax.
Availability: on request 1.5. - 30.9.
Guiding languages: English, Finnish.
Price: €39/pax (suitable only for adults).
What is included? guiding, coffee by campfire. How to get there: A 1-hour drive from Kuopio city centre and from Kuopio airport.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings and enquiries: Wild Nordic Finland/Tahko
• Web: www.wildnordic.fi
• E-mail: tahko@villipohjola.fi
• Tel: +358 50 058 8888
Duration: Approx 2 hours.
Location/Starting point: Kuopio Harbour, Makasiininkatu 1, 70100 Kuopio.
Group size: Max. 12 persons.
Availability: May to September. Bookings for the year 2023 can be made from 1 September 2022 onwards.
Guiding languages: Finnish, English.
Price: € 60/person, min. € 590.
What is included? A boat tour on Lake Kallavesi.
For extra fee:
• Catering available for an additional fee.
How to get there: Kuopio Harbour is in central Kuopio, a few minutes’ city bus ride or taxi ride away from the railway station and bus station. 25 minutes car drive from Kuopio Airport.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings and enquiries:
• E-mail: info@minnanpuoti.fi
• Tel. +358 40 5383823
• Web: www.minnanpuoti.fi
BOAT TRIPOur cruise vessel is s/y Sälen, a historical ship built in Gothenburg
”
The place has been challenging to reach and almost a hidden destination
Jätkänkämppä (Lumberjack’s Lodge) offers you an opportunity to experience a traditional lumberjack atmosphere of the 1950s in an authentic setting. Bathing in the gentle heat of the large smoke sauna combined with refreshing dips in the lake offers total relaxation. In winter you can try a truly invigorating dip in a pre-cut hole in lake ice.
Jätkänkämppä has its own traditional dinner buffet menus that also feature provincial specialities. Live accordion & violin music, light-heart ed humour and fantastic lumberjack shows in the summertime – all reflecting lumberjack heritage, representing a blast from the past.
Duration: 3–6 hours.
Location/Starting point: Jätkänkämppä Lumberjack Lodge, Spa Hotel Rauhalahti, Katiskaniementie 8, 70700 Kuopio.
Group size: 1–130 persons.
Availability: Tuesdays all year round and in June–August also Thursdays.
Guiding language: Self-guided.
Price:
• €39,50/adult.
• €19/child of 4–14 years.
• Ask us for group discounts.
What’s included?
• Smoke sauna visit (sauna towel).
• Traditional dinner buffet.
• Live accordion music in Jätkänkämppä.
• In June–August a spectacular lumberjack show at 6:30 pm and 8:30 pm.
Supplements:
Sauna drinks, alcoholic drinks with dinner buffet, extra towels. How to get there: The neareast railway and bus stations are in Kuopio city centre. Kuopio airport is 14 kilometres away from the city centre.
Spa Hotel Rauhalahti is located 5 km south of Kuopio city centre and Jätkänkämppä with the smoke sauna 600 metres behind the hotel. In the summer, Jätkänkämppä can also be reached by passenger boat from Kuopio harbour.
Accessible for people with disabilities: Yes Bookings and enquiries: Spa Hotel Rauhalahti
• E-mail: myynti@rauhalahti.fi
• Tel. +358 306 0830
Have a therapeutic boating or canoeing experience on the lake!
Our activities take place on clear waters that are clean enough to drink and where there are no mosquitos. The trip involves cooperation between the participants, which serves to build a spirit of togetherness. During the trip, the guide will tell us about therapeutic healing, preventive health care and an anti-aging lifestyle.
After this 4 h trip we offer freely to have a Finnish sauna experience and then a written sauna health guide about all the health, social and relaxa tion benefits we can get from sauna alone, and even more enforced with cold dipping in the lake.
Duration: About 4 hours.
Location/Starting point: Sahala Estate, Sahalantie 41, 77700 Rautalampi.
Group size: Min. 2 persons.
Availability: June–August.
Guiding languages: Finnish, English, Russian.
Price: €80/person. What’s included?
• Guided boat/canoe tour on Lake Äijävesi in Rautalampi.
• Break on the lake’s shore with organic tea and pancakes.
Supplements: A night’s stay at Sahala Estate, lakeside sauna, health lunch and health lecture are available on request.
How to get there: The nearest railway station is in Suonenjoki (23 km away). A taxi connection from Suonenjoki to Rautalampi takes 20 minutes. A drive from Kuopio and Jyväskylä airports takes about 1 hour.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings and enquiries: Sahala Herbs
• E-mail: info@sahalaherbs.fi
• Tel. +358 40 838 5599
LAKE ACTIVITIES AT SAHALA ESTATETake in the peacefulness of nature and enjoy picnic lunch by open fire in the gorgeous Tahko views. There are several lean-to’s around Tahko area to choose with different hiking distances. From very easy and short ones to long and challenging ones. The staff of Break Sokos Hotel Tahko will help you choose the suitable trail for you.
For groups Break Sokos Hotel Tahko will organize a guide who prepares lunch by the open fire. Individual travelers get packed lunch from the hotel to prepare by themselves.
You can enjoy the hiking grounds of Tahko all year round only landscape and the views are changing. Get your hiking gear on and head for the trails!
Examples of trails: 1 kilometer by the roads to Nallelaavu or Rantakota. 2 kilometers along hiking trails to Mäkiautio gorge.
Duration: 2-3 hours.
Location/Starting point: Break Sokos Hotel Tahko.
Group size: min. 25 persons.
Availability: All year round.
Guiding languages: Finnish, English.
Price: 65€/person.
What’s included?
• Hike
• Dinner at lean-to & cook preparing foods
Menu
• Seasonal green salad
• Rye bread with a cold-smoked salmon-crayfish topping
• Sausages grilled on a campfire
• Crepes with strawberry jam
• Coffee made on a campfire
• Refreshments (mineral water, soft drink, juice)
How to get there: The nearest railway stations are in Siilinjärvi (about 40 km away) and in Kuopio (about 67 km away). The taxi connection from Siilinjärvi to Tahko takes about half an hour.
Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Bookings and commissions: Break Sokos Hotel Tahko,
• E-mail: sales.peeassa@sok.fi
• Tel. +358107629550
Lake cruises are an excellent way to admire the views of Kuopio and the spectacular scenery of the Finnish Lakeland. Quench your thirst and quell your hunger with the delicious range of snacks, meals and drinks available onboard.
You can book ahead or simply walk to the Kuopio passenger port on a sunny day (or why not a rainy day too?) and choose your departure from various choices.
Duration: 1,5 – 2 hours.
Location/Starting point: Kuopio passenger port, Minna Canthinkatu 2, 70100 Kuopio.
Group size: 10-100
Availability: 1.6.-31.8. daily.
Timetable: 12.00 – 13.30 14.30 - 16.00 16.30 – 18.00 18.30 – 20.00
Guiding languages: Finnish, English. Price: €18/person.
What’s included? City & Islands cruise tour.
For extra fee:
• Lunch €13
• Dinner €20
Accessible for people with disabilities: No. Booking and enquiries: Kuopio Roll Cruises/ Lakeland Lines Ltd,
• E-mail: info@roll.fi
• Tel. +358 440 266330
Admire the views of Kuopio and the spectacular scenery of the Finnish Lakeland ”
Sleep well on a lakeshore in the middle of the woods or in the heart of the city centre. In North Savo Lakeland you’ll find various accommodation opportunities from small cottages and villas to luxury hotel rooms and apartments.
LOCATION: The hotel is located a 10-minute drive from Kuopio city centre, near Matkus shopping centre.
DESCRIPTION: A small and idyllic family-run boutique hotel with beautiful wooden houses is a unique environment for our individually decorated hotel rooms. Our peaceful yet central location gives you an opportunity to explore nature as well as the city. Our restaurant offers you traditional Finnish dishes prepared using local and seasonal ingre dients, with a Spanish twist.
CAPACITY: A total of 18 rooms / 35 beds.
ROOM TYPES: Standard single, standard double, superior double, standard family, superior family.
SERVICES: Restaurant, bar, café, summer terrace, sauna, wellness centre (run by Satumaiset Hyvinvointipalvelut), meeting rooms and event centre for up to 600 people.
WEBSITE: www.sawohouse.fi
LOCATION: Iisalmi city centre.
DESCRIPTION: An international boutique hotel providing high-quality accommodation. The hotel sits in a tranquil spot next to a beautiful church.
CAPACITY: Total 36 rooms / 65 beds.
ROOM TYPES: Classic, Comfort, ComfortPlus (with private sauna), Superior Class, Family Room Superior. Check the descriptions of the room types on our website at www.goldendome.fi
SERVICES: The hotel restaurants include the à la carte restaurant that skilfully prepares traditional Savonian-Karelian delicacies with an inter national twist, a private charter restaurant, a lobby bar and a catering service. Our à la carte restaurant menus change according to the sea sons. We always use the best seasonal ingredients for our dishes. The sauna is open for guests from Monday to Thursday between 18.45 and 21.00. Meeting rooms: Great Byzantine max. 80 persons (50 with class room-style seating), White Hall max. 40 (25 with classroom-style seating), Basement classroom max. 30, Sauna Cabinet max. 10. The meeting rooms can be adapted flexibly.
WEBSITE: www.goldendome.fi
LOCATION: A short distance from the small town of Kiuruvesi by Lake Kiurujärvi.
DESCRIPTION: Stop the time and feel the nature, let your mind be free. Allow your soul to be purified by sauna vapours, have an invigorating swim and get a good night’s sleep.
CAPACITY: 10 twin rooms for 20–25 guests.
ROOM TYPES: Twin rooms + extra beds.
SERVICES: Restaurant, wood-heated traditional sauna and smoke sauna, seasonal nature activities.
WEBSITE: www.sininenhelmi.fi
LOCATION: Kuopio city centre.
DESCRIPTION: Lapland Hotels Kuopio draws its strength from the crisp clear northern winters and the summer’s warmth on the fells. Ea sy-going nature and a modern feel of Lapland in Kuopio. The ambiance of our rooms is a tribute to the cosy atmosphere and top-notch quality that are characteristic of the North. Everything is built around dreamlike northern moments that you can enjoy in the unique, custom-made beds of our hotel.
CAPACITY: 139 rooms.
ROOM TYPES: Northern Comfort single, double and twin. Northern de Luxe. Lapland Junior Suite. Lapland Suite with Sauna.
SERVICES: Breakfast, à la carte restaurant, meeting rooms, saunas, pri vate sauna, gym, private parking indoors and outdoors.
WEBSITE: www.laplandhotels.com and www.kitchengalla.fi
LOCATION: A peaceful location by Lake Onkivesi, a 45-minute drive from the city of Kuopio. A private, safe and lovely area on a 1-km-long cape featuring only our guesthouse and cottages.
DESCRIPTION: Comfortable rooms with a great lake view at a peaceful location on the countryside. A great opportunity for small groups, who appreciate being close to the nature, far from the hustle and bustle!
CAPACITY: Total 6 rooms / 11 beds. For youth groups, the possibility of 1-2 extra beds in each room --> max. 20 persons total.
ROOM TYPES: 5 x Twin, 1 x Single (shower/toilet, TV, Wi-Fi, balcony in each room).
SERVICES: Sauna, jacuzzi, 2 kitchens, conference room. Rowing boat available free of charge. Equipment and facilities for self-guided acti vities for rent: two bicycles, outboard engines, tennis court, surfboard, cross-country skis. Meals for groups min. 10 persons by order. A small family-owned business, the hostess lives in the area and is ready to help you 24/7.
WEBSITE: jokiniemenmatkailu.fi/en/haavi-building
LOCATION: A peaceful location by Lake Onkivesi, a 45-minute drive from the city of Kuopio. A private area on a 1-km-long cape featuring only our cottages and guesthouse.
DESCRIPTION: Have a safe and relaxing holiday far from the hustle and bustle, close to the nature! A small family-owned business, the hostess li ves in the area and is ready to help you with every question or issue 24/7.
COTTAGES: Several alternatives for different needs – from a modern, well-equipped cottage to a traditional Finnish cottage for summertime use only. All the cottages have a nice and cosy feeling and feature at least the following amenities: electricity, hot and cold running water, shower/toilet, fridge, cooking and eating utensils and stove, coffeemaker, microwave oven, grill, fireplace. Private beach, rowing boat.
CAPACITY: Total 7 cottages (2 all year round + 5 from May to October, for 2–8 persons). The cottages Koukku (all year round), Ankkuri (all year round) and Merta each have three bedrooms, the cottages Onki and Katiska each have two bedrooms and the cottages Nuotta and Turo each have 1 bedroom.
SERVICES: Equipment and facilities for self-guided activities for rent: two bicycles, outboard engines, tennis court, surfboard, cross-country skis. Breakfast available daily (buffet/take away), other meals for groups min. 10 persons by order. Access to Wi-Fi at the reception area.
WEBSITE: www.jokiniemenmatkailu.fi/en
Jokiniemen MatkailuLOCATION: By the national highway no. 5 and Lake Isovalkeinen, by car 10 minutes from Kuopio city centre
DESCRIPTION: Hotel IsoValkeinen is a comfortable and peaceful re sort only 10 minutes from the city centre. All our 100 hotel rooms are situated in four row houses. Every room has its own parking place and electrical plug for car engine heater in front of the room. All the rooms have free Wi-Fi. Our rooms are spacious, non-smoking and wellequipped. We have one room equipped for disabled people. Hotel`s environment and its nature offer great opportunities for inde pendent outdoor activities (all year round). Good hiking and nature trails start just few steps from the hotel. Summertime there are good cycling routes with beautiful landscapes. There is also fishing possibility on lake Isovalkeinen (summer/winter).
CAPACITY: Total 100 rooms / 230 beds.
ROOM TYPES: Standard, Standard PLUS, Economy.
SERVICES: Lobbybar Kirjasto (Library), food restaurant Tori, dance res taurant IsoVaalee. 12 different conference rooms for 10–400 people. La keside sauna, swimming beach. Fishing in summer and winter.
WEBSITE: www.isovalkeinen.com/en
LOCATION: Located by Lake Yläkeyritty in wilderness surroundings. The nearest railway stations are in Siilinjärvi (about 100 km away) and in Kuopio (about 127 km away). The nearest airport is 1 hour 45 minutes away by car and is easy to reach by taxi or pre-ordered flat-rate airport transfers.
DESCRIPTION: The main interest of the Metsäkartano wilderness resort is to make unspoilt wilderness effortlessly available to an ordinary per son in a safe way with nature activity programmes. In pure wilderness surroundings you can experience the soothing power of nature and have a break from hectic life and the fast-paced work environment.
CAPACITY: A total of 29 wilderness hotel rooms / 86 beds in two wooden wilderness hotel buildings. The total capacity of Metsäkartano is 175 beds, the other forms of accommodation being holiday apartments (with 41 beds) and group accommodation in two big cabins (with 22+26 beds).
ROOM TYPES: Single room, double room, triple room, quadruple room SERVICES: Restaurant, café, meeting rooms, saunas, different activities, equipment rental, guided services
COTTAGES: Five holiday apartments in three different sizes. Two small cottages that accommodate 2–6 persons with one bedroom and extra beds upstairs. Two medium size cottages that accommodate 4–8 persons with two bedrooms and extra beds upstairs. One big cottage that ac commodates 6–11 persons with three bedrooms and extra beds. All cot tages include a living room, kitchen, bathroom/sauna, terrace and toilet. COTTAGE CAPACITY: A total of five holiday apartments / for 2–11 per sons each / 39 persons in total WEBSITE: www.metsakartano.com/en
LOCATION: By Lake Unnukka, a 20-minute drive from Varkaus city cent re and a 1-hour drive from Kuopio.
DESCRIPTION: Niemilomat is situated in the middle of beautiful and clean nature. Your host takes good care of you to make your holiday perfect.
COTTAGES: Ullan Pirtti (47 m²), Riitan Parsi (143 m²), Telakan Kammari (30m²). All accommodations have Wi-Fi. More information available online at www.niemilomat.fi/en
BED & BREAKFAST ROOMS: The main building at Niemilomat is a log house built in 1915 and fully renovated in 1997. The upper floor comprises four double rooms. In the lobby there is one bathroom with shower per two rooms. The price includes breakfast, which is ser ved downstairs in the atmospheric living room-kitchen combo. In the summertime, the guests may also use the lakeside sauna as well as row a boat on the lake. Wi-Fi is available in the main building.
CAPACITY: Total capacity 25 persons. Cottages 3–10 persons, main building 8 persons.
SERVICES: Rowing boats available free of charge, a nature trail with shed, a small island with shed. For extra charge: Disc golf, nature tour, Icelandic horse riding, restaurant for groups of 10–42 persons, smoke sauna for groups of 8–30 persons, outdoor games, snowshoes.
WEBSITE: www.niemilomat.fi/en
LOCATION: The small and idyllic village of Jyrkkä, suitably far away from everything for a relaxing holiday. Situated by Lake Kiltua, a one-hour drive from central Iisalmi and one and half hour drive from Kuopio.
DESCRIPTION: You can sense the atmosphere of the 19th century when the old ironworks operated in the village of Jyrkkä for almost one hund red years. The area has been restored and it introduces Finland’s oldest industry to tourists with its magnificent rapids in the middle of pure wil derness.
COTTAGES: Our two spacious, brand new and modern Scandinavianstyle log cabins were built in 2019. They offer a wonderful setting for an active, invigorating holiday with an amazing view to the lake. In addi tion to the excellently equipped accommodation, we offer a wide range of different kinds of services. We support and encourage sustainable travelling. Our high-quality tap water originates from a local natural well.
CAPACITY: Total 2 cottages / 1–10 persons per cottage.
SERVICES: Rowing boat, fire wood, gas grill and gas are included in the cottage price.
All year round: catering and food service, activities, wood-heated sauna by the lake, hot tub rental
1.5.–30.10.: Equipment rental (e.g. fishing, fly fishing, fish traps, canoeing equipment).
1.5.–30.9. Café, pub and terrace, grocery and souvenir kiosk, museum. 1.6.-30.8. Art exhibition.
WEBSITE: www.ruukintupa.fi
PHOTO: IISALMI JA TIENOOTLOCATION: In the centre of the Tahko resort.
DESCRIPTION: A cosy hotel in the centre of Tahko, and close to all the services available there. Our hotel is committed to operating in a sus tainable manner with consideration for the environment. In recognition of this hotel has earned Green Key –sertificate and Sustainable Travel Finland mark for long-term job for sustainable traveling.
CAPACITY: 120 rooms / 462 beds including extra beds.
ROOM TYPES: Standard Twin x 53, Superior Twin x 38, SuperiorX Twin with balcony x 14, SuperiorX Twin with loft x 14.
SERVICES: WiFi, two private saunas for ten people each, à la carte res taurant Hillside, pizzeria Pizza Breikki, fast food restaurant Hesburger and lobby bar Warsteiner Bar.
WEBSITE: www.sokoshotels.fi/en/tahko
LOCATION: Puustila Golf & Ski holiday homes are located right in the heart of Tahko with amazing scenery close to the nature. You can find both Tahko services and different kind of activities only a few minutes walk away.
DESCRIPTION: You can choose from 13 different holiday homes which are high-class, easy and diverse. Spacious, modern and well-equipped holiday homes are perfect for spending quality time inside or coming home after an exciting active day outside. All holiday homes have their own sauna and free wifi. Four of the holiday homes also have their own private child-friendly safe beach.
CAPACITY: 13 different holiday homes, total accommodation capacity is 130 persons.
SERVICES: In the summer, the guests have access to Puustila’s own pri vate child-friendly beach and rowing boats. We can also book tee times in advance to Tahko Golf Club, and we sell affordable green fees. In the wintertime, 1–2 unlimited ski tickets are included in cottage prices (not in apartment prices).
WEBSITE: www.puustila.com
LOCATION: Iisalmi city centre.
DESCRIPTION: Original Sokos Hotel Koljonvirta is a warm-spirited and cosy hotel right in the centre of Iisalmi, in the heart of Upper Savo. We take such good care of our guests that they feel right at home. Our services, including the conference facilities, restaurants and evening entertainment, are conveniently accessible, all within the same building. Also, city services, shopping opportunities and cultural attractions are within an effortless walking distance.
CAPACITY: 88 rooms.
ROOM TYPES: Standard twin, superior rooms and Junior Suites.
SERVICES: Restaurant, bar, meeting rooms and saunas.
WEBSITE: www.sokoshotels.fi
LOCATION: In central Kuopio, between the main marketplace and the passenger harbour at Lake Kallavesi, within easy walking distance of both.
DESCRIPTION: The beauty of Kuopio’s life glows in nature, at the mar ketplace and in Savonian people. Puijonsarvi is the largest hotel in Eas tern Finland, with a warm, cosy and relaxed atmosphere.
The comfort of our guests is a passion for us, and we want you to feel like home by offering you the best hospitality.
CAPACITY: 300 rooms / 600 beds.
ROOM TYPES: Standard, Superior, SuperiorX, Junior Suite, Suite.
SERVICES: Two dinner restaurants, Ehta and Frans & Sophie, breakfast restaurant Utu, lobby bar; several conference rooms; gym; separate sau nas for men and women.
WEBSITE: www.sokoshotels.fi/en/kuopio/sokos-hotel-puijonsarvi
LOCATION: The best location in the heart of Kuopio by the legendary market square.
DESCRIPTION: The stylishly elegant and cosy hotel offers guest rooms decorated in different colour themes featuring all that you need for a good night’s sleep. Some of the rooms have their own sauna, bathtub or balcony, and many of them offer beautiful views over the buzzing market square.
CAPACITY: 131 rooms, 247 beds + extra beds.
ROOM TYPES: Standard, Superior, Family Superior and Junior Suite.
SERVICES: Grillsson steakhouse restaurant, buffet breakfast, Atlas ball room, five meeting rooms for up to 100 persons.
WEBSITE: www.scandichotels.com/hotels/finland/kuopio/scandic-atlas
LOCATION: By Lake Kallavesi next to the Kuopio harbour and only a 10-minute walk from the city centre.
DESCRIPTION: Our hotel is located in the centre of Kuopio and by Lake Kallavesi, making it an excellent starting point for seeing the sights of the city or just having a few days to relax. The hotel is ideal for both busi ness and leisure travellers who value beautiful lake views, modern guest rooms and great conference and banqueting facilities.
CAPACITY: 137 rooms and 274 beds + extra beds
ROOM TYPES: Standard, Family, Superior and Junior Suite
SERVICES: Scandinavian restaurant, buffet breakfast, saunas, swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym, great C&B facilities including ballroom for up to 400 persons.
WEBSITE: www.scandichotels.com/hotels/finland/kuopio/scandic-kuopio
LOCATION: By Southern Konnevesi National Park – situated right next to the national park in Rautalampi.
DESCRIPTION: Törmälä is a place for peace and quiet, right near nature. It is an ideal destination for hikers, campers and fishing enthusiasts or just anybody looking for a peaceful stay.
CAPACITY: 14 rooms /56 beds, two apartments max. 6 persons each, one cottage for two persons, one apartment for max 10 persons, sum mer shed for 14 persons.
ROOM TYPES: Rooms for 1–4 persons each with private facilities, apart ments and cottage with kitchen and private facilities, traditional summer shed with 14 beds.
SERVICES: Restaurant, three saunas, coffee shop, information board.
WEBSITE: www.tormala.fi/tormala-eng
LOCATION: At the Tahko ski resort.
DESCRIPTION: Tahko Spa Hotel is a year-round holiday destinati on offering high-quality accommodation and a wide choice of sports and leisure services, including a pool area, bowling alley, restaurants, meeting facilities, multifunction arena, chapel and gym. Tahko Spa Hotel is located at the heart of Tahko.
CAPACITY: 39 apartments / 132 beds + extra beds (sofa beds).
APARTMENT TYPES: Golf Apartment 49.5 m² + balcony Vuori Apartment 58 m² + balcony
Junior Suite 58 m2 + 19 m² terrace Standard Suite 92 m2 + 19 m² terrace Superior Suite 117 m2 + 38 m² terrace
SERVICES: Tahko Gym, Tahko Bowling, Tahko Spa, conference rooms and services, SuperCorner Tahko, Restaurant Riemu, beauty treatments and massages.
WEBSITE: www.tahkospa.fi/en
LOCATION: At the centre of the Tahko ski resort.
DESCRIPTION: These alpine chalet-style apartments are located at the centre of the Tahko area. All commercial services and activities are within walking distance, e.g. the Tahko Bridge that crosses Lake Syväri.
APARTMENTS: The cosy and comfortable apartments are individually decorated and well-equipped. Some have a fireplace, too. There is free Wi-Fi and a parking place available.
CAPACITY: 10 apartments for up to a total of 84 persons.
SERVICES: Sales service for groups, taxi service from Siilinjärvi railway station or Kuopio airport.
WEBSITE: www.tahkoapartments.fi
LOCATION: At the centre of the Tahko ski resort.
DESCRIPTION: The best location in Tahko: just opposite the Tahko ski slopes and very close to Lake Syväri. All commercial services and activi ties are within walking distance, e.g. the Tahko Bridge that crosses Lake Syväri.
APARTMENTS: These well-equipped and individually decorated apartments offer beautiful views to the Tahko slopes. There is also free Wi-Fi and a parking place available.
CAPACITY: 6 apartments for up to a total of 26 persons.
SERVICES: Sales service for groups, taxi service from Siilinjärvi railway station or Kuopio airport.
WEBSITE: www.tahkoapartments.fi
LOCATION: Close to the centre of the Tahko ski resort.
DESCRIPTION: Cosy and comfortable apartments near the hiking and biking paths. Ski-to-door access to cross-country tracks.
APARTMENTS: The apartments are well-equipped, each with air con ditioning and a sauna. There is a free parking area, Wi-Fi and a cosy lawn-covered yard with a shared barbecue grill available.
CAPACITY: 11 apartments for up to a total of 46 persons.
SERVICES: Sales service for groups, taxi service from Siilinjärvi railway station or Kuopio airport, ski maintenance room.
WEBSITE: www.tahkoapartments.fi
LOCATION: Accommodations all over Tahko region
DESCRIPTION: TAHKOcom is the central booking agency for all tra vel services and DMC at the Tahko travel destination. Tahko is a great place to spend a holiday with your family, friends or by yourself, enjo ying the peacefulness of Finnish nature. In the heart of Europe’s largest lake district, Finnish Lakeland and Tahko travel destination invite you to come and enjoy the world’s purest air and water, wild nature, and white, pristine snow.
COTTAGES: Our selection of accommodation options includes 800 dif ferent choices from hotel rooms to cottages by the lake at the Tahko travel destination.
CAPACITY: 800 accommodation options with over 4000 beds.
SERVICES: As the DMC of Tahko we offer everything from versatile accommodations to unforgettable experiences tailored for your prefe rences.
WEBSITE: www.tahko.com/en
LOCATION: Vesileppis is located in the town of Leppävirta, only 30 mi nutes from Kuopio by car.
DESCRIPTION: Vesileppis is surrounded by beautiful nature and is close to great recreational opportunities. World´s only spectacular Moomin Ice Cave lies 30 m under the hotel. In the Ice Cave there is an ice sculpture exhibition and lot of winter activities like snow slides, snow tubes and a sleigh-go-round. From September to November the Ice Cave is used for indoor skiing.Vesileppis also offers hockey and skating ice rink and multipurpose indoor Vesileppis Sport Areena.
SPA: Children’s wading pool, waterslide pool (incl. a 32-meter waterslide), competition & fitness pool with 6 lanes (25 metres long), spa pool/water massage / +33/30°C, cold water pool, Wibit Aquapark water activity cour se.
CAPACITY: 131 rooms / 526 beds.
ROOM TYPES: 6 different types: Standard Twin, Superior Double, Su perior Family Room, Superior X Twin, Superior Family Suite and 2 Villas (8–10 persons).
SERVICES: Spa, Restaurant Bistro, Castro Bar, Coffee Corner, Moomin Ice Cave, Moomin Minishop, beauty salon, massage services, hockey and skating rink, Ski Arena, Multipurpose Vesileppis Arena, Bowling, Vokkola Outdoor Track and Field, full-size football lawn, personal training, minigolf and disc golf, meeting facilites, outdoor padel.
WEBSITE: www.vesileppis.fi/en
LOCATION: By Lake Suvasvesi, a 1.5-hour drive from Kuopio, a 4.5-hour drive from Helsinki via Lahti, Mikkeli and Varkaus.
DESCRIPTION: Skilfully built and well-equipped log cottages located next to a nature conservation area and the south-facing shore of Lake Suvasvesi. Excellent opportunities for fishing and other nature-related activities. Orinoro gorge and nature trail, Valamo Monastery and Lintula Convent are just a half-an-hour drive away.
COTTAGES: The cottages have been built using traditional methods out of specially selected sturdy pine logs sourced from the very location The layouts of the cottages are identical, featuring an open-plan lounge, fully fitted kitchen and two bedrooms. Both cottages have all the essential fa cilities, including a spacious sauna department, hot and cold water (from a drilled well), dish washer, electric heating and heat-storing fireplace for those cosy nights indoors. Both also feature a veranda and a deck area with gas grill. Wooden steps lead to the shore and the pier.
CAPACITY: A total of 2 cottages for 1–6 persons each.
SERVICES: Available to the guests for no extra cost are the sauna, ro wing boat, dartboard and darts, “Mölkky” outdoor skittle-throwing game, a deck of cards and a selection of books and paperbacks in the English language.
WEBSITE: www.kasanen.com
DESCRIPTION: Tahko Chalet invites you to come and enjoy the cleanest air and water in the world, wild nature with fresh berries, mushrooms and clean white snow. Tahko Chalet/PNT Active Oy is a traditional family-owned company offering a wide range of accommodation, restaurant, meeting and banqueting facilities all year round.
SERVICES: The restaurants Piazza, Golden Resort, Ukko, Bar & Restau rant Mosquito. The following two accommodation premises are also operated by us.
LOCATION: Central location in Tahko Ski Resort. Sääskinimentie 560, 73310 Tahkovuori.
CAPACITY: Six apartments with excellent facilties only 400 meters from the nearest ski lift. All apartments feature fully equipped kitchen, fi replace and sauna.
WEBSITE: www.ukkotahko.fi/en/rooms/vietti-suites/
LOCATION: In the heart of Tahko Ski Resort. Ukontie 7, 73310 Tahkovuori
The slopes and the lake views provide a stunning setting for holidays and accommodation in a prime location at Tahko all year round. UKKO has 15 rooms: eight quadruple rooms with sauna and balcony, six terraced twin rooms and one terraced family room for five guests.
WEBSITE: www.ukkotahko.fi/en
LOCATION: A few kilometres from the centre of Tahko. Kultapallo 1, 73310 Tahkovuori
CAPACITY: The 29 spacious villas are effortlessly close to Tahko’s ac tivities, but they also offer peace and privacy in the middle of nature. At Golden Resort, we host a variety of corporate events, celebrations, meetings and weddings. Located in Nilsiä near Lake Syväri, the resort offers great opportunities for both relaxation and active holidays with family and friends.
WEBSITE: www.goldenresort.fi/en
LOCATION: 5 km south of the Kuopio city centre, by Lake Kallavesi, part of Rauhalahti Resort. Katiskaniementie 8, 70700 Kuopio.
DESCRIPTION: Spa Hotel Rauhalahti is surrounded by a beautiful nature reserve with lake scenery. It is located within Rauhalahti Resort which offers plenty of activities such as bowling, minigolf, tennis, horseriding, canoeing, SUP boarding, cycling, skiing, hiking, kids’ playgrounds and animal park in summer.
CAPACITY: 167 rooms/apartments/studios, in total 487 beds.
ROOM TYPES: Hotel rooms, family rooms, suites, apartments 32–67 m², studios 24 m². Some apartments with their own sauna.
SPA: The spa is open daily, with free entrance for all hotel guests. There are 10 different pools in the spa, including a swimming pool, ja cuzzies, kids’ pools and a water massage pool plus Finnish saunas. Its specialities are a hot pool, an ice pool and a warm outdoor pool as well as a steam bath sauna. There is a pool bar with drinks and snacks available, a pool café and a group sauna with its own meeting room. We arrange pool workouts in the spa (in the mornings, for example), and the guests have free access to the aquatic belts, water toys etc.
SERVICES: Buffet restaurant (breakfast, lunch, dinner), à la carte restaurant, dance restaurant with live music, night club / karaoke bar, lobby pub & café, pool bar and pool hamburger-café, special traditional restaurant Jätkänkämppä with smoke sauna.
Spa with pools and saunas, treatment facilities, gym, fitness hall, group workout lessons, leisure programmes for both holiday makers and groups, nature activities such as nature paths, skiing tracks, equipment hire, meeting rooms and services, dance and karaoke evenings, pop & rock weekends, traditional Finnish evenings in a real lumberjacks’ lodge called Jätkänkämppä with a smoke sauna visit (public evenings and pri vate parties for groups).
WEBSITE: www.rauhalahti.fi/en
The brand-new Koskisydän Hotel resort will be the new crown jewel of the headwaters of Päijänne. The resort will undergo construction during 2022, with a goal to grow into one of Finland’s largest and most diverse nature tourism destinations by 2030, fueled by a five-star rating. The resort’s business will be year-round tourism, with services built around nature activities, lake landscapes and luxurious accommodation in the Äyskoski rapids.
The new concept will be built in phases. In the first phase, the company’s intention is to get about 200 new accommodation places entailing sixty 40-square-meter landscaped suites with an approximate total of 2400 square meters of floor space, apartment-specific sauna facilities, as well as outdoor hot tubs. In addition, a small spa is planned next to the main building in the tourist area.
LOCATION: Lohitie 701, 72210 Tervo. About a 1-hour drive from cent ral Kuopio or from Suonenjoki.
UPCOMING CAPACITY: Resort accommodation for approximately 200 persons including luxurious lodge suites, port of water transport, caravan-site.
UPCOMING SERVICES: First snow ski-trail, natural ice ski rink, workout stairs, guided nature tourism in nearby nature sites (Manginniemi and Hirviniemi), and illuminated rapids– nature’s own work of art.
VisitSavo - Travelling in Northern Savo
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Äyskoski rapids in Tervo.
Northern Savo Lakeland visit_savo
Capital of Lakeland, Kuopio, is known for its thousands of lakes, joyful activities, beautiful nature, vibrant events, rich culture and friendly hospitality. Tahko is one of Lakeland’s tourism regions open all year round. During summer, Tahko attracts visi tors with its nature tracks, various events, all-terrain vehicle safaris, downhill mountain biking, golf courses and many other physical activities for active tourists to enjoy.
• Flight to Kuopio (KUO) airport
• Airport transfer to Tahko Resort (non-guided), transfer time 45 min
Situated in the centre of Tahko, the Tahko Spa Hotel apart ments are all about high-end quality, with the customer cons tantly in mind when they were designed everything is finis hed to a high spec. The Spa Suite apartments even include a parking space in the garage, located on the bottom floor and it has its own lockable storage for sports equipment in the garage.
• Half board dinner will be served at Restaurant “Riemu”
• Accommodation in apartments
• Breakfast served in the main building (app. 200 meters from the apartment)
• Hiking trip at Tahko area, 4 hours
At this hiking trip you will experience Finnish forest and spe ctacular scenery at Tahko, hear stories about nature, the re gion and beautiful hiking route. Picnic lunch will be served during the trip. Length of the route is 14 km.
• In the afternoon/evening relaxing on the Tahko Spa
• Half board dinner will be served at Restaurant “Riemu”
• Accommodation in apartments
• Breakfast served in the main building (app. 200 meters from the apartment)
• Canoeing trip at Lake Syväri 2,5 – 3 hours
Clean water, thousands of islands and rich nature. This trip is appropriate to the families with children and the persons who have never paddled. In a canoe one is really close to the surface of water and thus gets the best connection with the beautiful nature. We’ll canoe along the shores and around the islands admiring lovely Lakeland scenery. On a break we’ll enjoy the surrounding peace while preparing sausages over a campfire.
• Free time at Tahko area
• Half board dinner will be served at Restaurant “Riemu”
• Accommodation in apartments
• Breakfast served in the main building (app. 200 meters from the apartment)
• E-bike safari in the summer nature (2 hours)
Experience the e-fatbike, an electrically-powered winter bike, that will let you enjoy the pleasures of winter in a whole new way. Thanks to this innovative e-bike, you’ll get to see more of Tahkos beautiful landscapes in less time. We’re cer tain you’ll be smiling throughout your entire ride, even on the climbs!
The safari includes: E-Fatbike, helmet, guide and trail fees. Notes: All participants must be of size greater than 5’ foot (152 cm). Trip includes traditional Finnish sausages by open fire.
• Free time at Tahko area
• Half board dinner will be served at Restaurant “Riemu”
• Accommodation in apartments
• Breakfast served in the main building (app. 200 meters from the apartment) and check-out
• Private transfer to the city of Kuopio, transfer time 1 hour (non-guided)
Today you have a city break in beautiful Kuopio and you can see the lake view from the boat. Your transfer will end at Kuo pio harbor, from where you will have a cruise to Sauna, Spa and restaurant premises “Kuopion Saana” In Saana you can indulge all your senses. The restaurant leans heavily on local ly grown food to offer you a wide spectrum of tastes, and our pools pamper your skin together with the gentle steam of our saunas. You can also enjoy the magnificent view from our restaurant and terraces and be enthralled by the nostalgic scent of our smoke sauna mixing subtly with the exquisite aromas from the kitchen.
• After Spa time lunch will be served for the group.
• Transfer continues to Kuopio airport and on the way you will have time to visit Puijo Tower and see the beautiful view of Finnish Lakeland area.
NET rate: Price is based on min. 10 pax - max. 20 pax 970 €/pax 4 pax / apartment 1035 €/pax 2 pax / apartment 1246 €/pax 1 pax / apartment
Price includes VAT. We use marginal tax.
Price includes:
• Transfers according to the program
• Accommodation at Tahko Spa Suites, 4 nights (4/2/1 pax per apartment)
• Breakfast x 4
• Half board dinner x 4
• Hiking trip, 4 hours including picnic lunch
• Tahko Spa ticket x 1
• Canoeing trip, 2,5 - 3 hours including outdoor snack
• E-bike safari, 2 hours including outdoor snack
• Charter cruise from Kuopio harbour to Kuopion Saana
• Spa ticket (including towel) at Kuopion Saana
• Lunch at Kuopion Saana
• Entrance fee at Puijo Tower
Price includes VAT.
We use marginal tax.
Price does not include:
• Any beverage / drinks during the program
• Guide throughout the program (hiking, biking and canoeing include guiding)
With extra charge: English speaking guide for the program 390 €/day (max. 8 hours/day)
Reservations: Wild Nordic Finland/ Villi Pohjola Oy
• E-mail: lakeland@wildnordic.fi
• Tel +358 (0) 50 078 8888
Availability: On request 1.5. - 30.9.2022
Payment method: Payment in advance.
Terms and conditions: Will be confirmed upon request.
In Eastern Finland, at the center of the Lakeland area is the city of Kuopio, the capital of Lakeland. Surrounded by the beautiful Lake Kallavesi and forest, it is easy to be mesmerized by the beauty that Kuopio has to offer. Kuopio has an international airport (KUO), which is only 15 minutes from Kuopio city center.
Kuopio is a great destination throughout the year. Summertime, under the nightless sky, you could enjoy nature at a lakeside cabin, have different summer activities, such as cruises and paddling or attend different festivals and events.
• Flight to Kuopio (KUO) airport
• Guided airport transfer to Kuopio city centre
• Check-in Original Sokos Hotel Puijonsarvi (twin rooms)
• “Getting to know Finnish sauna culture and Lumberjack’s life in the past” Smoke sauna and dinner at Lumberjack’s Lodge (open evening for everyone, not private)
• Guided transfer by bus (15 minutes) to Lumberjack’s Lodge
Lumberjack’s Lodge offers you the opportunity to experience the traditional lumberjack atmosphere of the 1950s in an aut hentic setting and provides a unique venue for a memorable evening. Bathing in the gentle heat of the smoke sauna com bined with refreshing dips in the lake offers total relaxation. Lumberjack’s Lodge has its own menus for evening meals that also feature provincial specialties. Fantastic lumberjack shows, light-hearted humor and live accordion music, all reflecting lumberjack heritage, give a blast from the past. In summer the menu includes ‘Robber’s Roast’ or smoked salmon (made while customers are watch ing).
The program also features lumberjack shows in summer.
• Accommodation at Sokos Hotel Puijonsarvi in twin rooms
• Breakfast at the hotel
• “Getting to know Gastronomy & Design in city of Kuopio”
• Pick-up from the hotel at Kuopio city centre and transfer to Koivumäki Manor
Since 1792 In Koivumäki farm people have been living part of Finnish nature and culture, by seasons, enjoying fresh food, beautiful atmosphere, peace, and collected power of daily life. When Gustav Ranin was admitted to a farm in 1869, the manor was known as a mansion for business meetings and for celebration.
• Liquor tasting at Koivumäki Manor (Lignell & Piispanen)
Lignell & Piispanen (L&P) is a Finnish company from Kuopio, manufacturing alcoholic beverages. Its parent company Oy Gust. Ranin was founded in 1852 and the trademark and products of Lignell & Piispanen were merged into it in 1932. Nowaday the company is famous for its beverages such as liquors and dill vodka.
• Delicious lunch will be served at Koivumäki Manor
• Short transfer to Lasilinkki Glass Factory
Discover the extraordinary possibility to experience the art and magic of making beautiful glass designs at Lasilinkki. In this short course, you will get to see first hand the incredible process of making beautiful glass art pieces from our recy cled glasses with our experienced glass masters, who will guide you through the whole process. Also, visitors will get a chance to visit ESSIS glass showroom, where our team of passionate glass designers have created timeless glass de signs. After introduction time to do some shopping (extra charge).
• Short transfer to Saurum Jewellery Factory
• Introduction of the Saurum jewellery factory
Saurum Oy is a Finnish company that has a long history in creating jewellery- their core values are guided by honesty, openness and uncompromised professionalism. Mr Heikki Hartikainen, who is the Head of Design in Saurum Oy, makes the factory tour for you. After the tour a possibility to do some shopping in the factory (extra charge).
• Transfer back to the hotel (arriving in 16:00)
• Half board dinner at the hotel (buffet or 3 courses)
• Accommodation at Sokos Hotel Puijonsarvi in twin rooms
• Breakfast at the hotel
• “Visiting Hotel & Spa Resort Järvisydän” and Linnansaari Nationalpark
• Meet your guide at the reception, guided transfer to Hotel & Spa Resort Järvisydän (45 min)
It was the year 1658, when the first members of the Heiska nen Family began to serve travelers in the Porosalmi area on the shores of Lake Saimaa. A key reason was because the Tsar of Russia and the King of Sweden made a deal that there should be an ice road going via Finland. Along the road they agreed that there should be feeding places for the horses and places to rest for the men every 30 km. For this rea son Järvisydän was born. At the start of the 21st century Mr Markus Heiskanen took over as host of Järvisydän, the 11th generation of the Heiskanen Family to do so. Markus as a young and enthusiastic host added extra villas and a hotel to the comlex, opened Finnish Sauna World, a new restaurant (Pilkatyttö) and wine bar and a boat bar named Lotjabaari. The beautiful Lake Spa was opened in 2017.
• After arrival a wooden boat trip to Kaarnetsaari island (2,5 hours)
Linnansaari National Park is located in the heart of Finnish Lakeland. The waters of the park are dotted with lush green islands and rocky islets. The cruise will depart from your pier and will take us through the beautiful landscapes of the area. We will land on the small island of Kaarnetsaari, where the guide will prepare a picnic of grilled sausages and pancakes. You can walk around the island and get to know the unique Saimaa ringed seal through an exhibition at the information centre. After lunch we make the return journey.
• Before heading back to Kuopio, relaxing in the unique Lake Spa
• In the early evening transfer back to Kuopio
• Half board dinner at the hotel (buffet or 3 courses)
• Accommodation at Sokos Hotel Puijonsarvi in twin rooms
• Breakfast at the hotel and check-out
• Minibus/bus transfer to Tahko Holiday Resort (1 hour)
• Check-in Break Sokos Hotel Tahkovuori
Break Sokos Hotel Tahkovuori is a cosy holiday hotel in the centre of the Tahko tourist area. The slopes, tracks, restau rants and all other services in the area are within an easy walking distance from the hotel. Guests have access to a wide variety of winter and summer activities. After a day of strenuous outdoor activities it is nice to relax in the Warstei ner Bar.
• E-bike safari in the summer nature (2 hours)
Short transfer to the safari house. Experience the e-fatbike, an electrically-powered winter bike, that will let you enjoy the pleasures of winter in a whole new way. Thanks to this inno vative e-bike, you’ll get to see more of Tahkos beautiful land scapes in less time. We’re certain you’ll be smiling throug hout your entire ride, even on the climbs! The safari includes: E-Fatbike, helmet, guide and trail fees.
Notes: All participants must be of size greater than 5’ foot (152 cm)
• Lunch by our own choice in various restaurants in Tahko area
• Half board dinner at the hotel (buffet or 3 courses)
• Accommodation at Sokos Hotel Tahkovuori in twin rooms
• Guided transfer to Koli Nationalpark (2 hours)
Tourism at Koli started over a hundred years ago in the wake of the so-called Karelianists. Today, Koli is a modern yearround tourist attraction. It is particularly well known for the national park and the “national landscape.”
A scenic hiking tour in the heart of the Lakeland area inclu des visits to Koli’s most famous panoramic views and the hig hest points in the Koli National Park. During the tour, your guide tells you interesting facts and stories about Koli, its his tory, nature and culture, as well as information on artists, who have found inspiration from the Koli hills area. Spectacular views are seen throughout this tour, and you have plenty of time to enjoy them and take photos of the natural beauty. Welcome to discover Koli National Park with us! Lunch will be served during the tour in Koli. Visit to Koli Relax Spa after the tour Koli Relax Spa pampe ring and landscape spa is a unique concept in Finland. The idea is to give you the chance to stop and focus on your own well-being.
We give you a Koli Spa Pail containing five Lumene skincare products: salt crystal foot scrub, stimulating body scrub, detoxifying mask, repairing hand treatment and moisturizing body lotion. The products are designed to suit both men and women.
• In the early evening transfer back to Kuopio
• Half board dinner at the hotel (buffet or 3 courses)
• Accommodation at Sokos Hotel Puijonsarvi in twin rooms
NET rate: 1425 €/pax min. 10 pax
Price includes VAT. We use marginal tax. Price includes:
• Accommodation at Sokos Hotel Puijonsarvi, twin rooms, 4 nights
• Accommodation at Sokos Hotel Tahkovuori, twin rooms, 1 night
• Breakfasts x 5
• Meals as agreed
• Program as agreed
• Transfers as agreed
• Guiding in English
Price does not include:
• Any beverage / drinks during the program
Reservations: Wild Nordic Finland/ Villi Pohjola Oy
• E-mail: lakeland@wildnordic.fi
• Tel. +358 500 788 888
Availability: On request 1.5. - 30.9.2022
Payment method: Payment in advance
Cancellation terms: For cancellations, please inform Wild Nordic via email at Lakeland@wildnordic.fi and specify the reservation number. Cancellation inquiry shall be made in writing within office hours in Finland. The requested cancellations are subject to the written approval of Wild Nordic.
All bookings, changes and cancellations must be made by e-mail to Wild Nordic during business days on Monday - Friday at 09.00-16.00 Finnish times, minimum 7 days prior to the tour departure. The cancellations are subject to the written approval of Wild Nordic:
• 60-30 days prior to the arrival cancellation fee 25,00€
• 29-14 days prior to the arrival 50% of the total amount.
• Less than 14 days or no show 100% of the total amount.
Wild Nordic shall not be liable or assumed responsible for any claims, losses, damages, costs or other expenses arising out of inconvenience, loss of enjoyment, disap pointment, distress or frustration, whether physical or mental.
Changes: For any changes to the reservation, please inform Wild Nordic via e-mail at Lakeland@wildnordic. fi and refer to your booking number. All changes or al terations to be made to the reservation shall be made in writing within office hours in Finland.
The requested changes are subject to the written appro val of Wild Nordic. Any changes to reservations depend on availability. Any extra costs incurred for making the change will be charged to the customer. Cancellation of any tour, product or service included in a reservation will not be considered a change for purposes of this section and will be governed by the applicable cancellation terms.
All changes must be made by e-mail to Wild Nordic during business days on Monday - Friday at 09.00-16.00 Finnish time, minimum 14 days prior to the tour departure.
Kuopio-Tahko Markkinointi is a marketing company for enterprises in the KuopioTahko area.
”KuopioTahko is a land of contrasts. From silent landscapes to buzzing restaurants. From well-slept nights to nights when you forget to sleep at all. From nights under the stars to nights in the comfiest hotels.
When you visit KuopioTahko the unknown is where the best memories begin.”
Find out more on these pages: kuopiotahko.fi/en/home/
”Discover exciting events and experiences or just take some time to relax in our beautiful countryside with easy access to excellent services. We’re proud of the clear waters and pristine nature of our Finnish Lakeland.
Did you know that Iisalmi has the world’s smallest restaurant, Kuappi? Or what about the Wife-Carrying World Champion ships, which remains Finland’s best-known event globally? ”
Find out more on these pages: www.iisalmi.fi/In-english
by Development Company SavoGrow
SavoGrow is a publicly owned enterprise engaged in promotion of regional economic vitality. We support and boost the growth of local businesses within the six North Savonian municipalities of Keitele, Pielavesi, Rautalampi, Suonenjoki, Tervo and Vesanto.
VisitSavo (in Finnish) www.visitsavo.fi
Delicious tours and flavorful moments, the table is set #tastesavo. Kuopio and the province of North Savo is the first region in Finland to receive the European Region of Gastronomy Award by IGCAT. The Award will put the Kuopio region’s culinary tourism and high-quality foods, restaurants, and services in the well-deserved spotlight both nationally and internationally.
Here people are living according to nature’s rhythm and you can explore the region through tastes and activities - fresh wild herbs, sweet summer, harvest treasurers, winter wonder land, and nature’s bounty. Finland’s pure nature, midnight sun, high-quality natural ingredients, and every one’s right to roam and pick berries, mushrooms, and wild herbs are part of our everyday lives and something we want to share with tourists. Welcome to the home of the most flavourful experiences in Finland!
www.tastesavo.fi
In Finland, nature is not only wild, it’s free for everyone to enjoy, respectfully. The general public’s right allows allows anyone living in or visiting Finland to freely roam the countryside, forage, fish with a line and rod, and enjoy the recreational use of natural areas. We call this “Everyman’s Rights”, Jokamiehen oikeudet. (visitfinland.com)
• walk, ski, cycle, or ride a horse freely (except very near homes and other private buildings or through farm fields and nursery plantations which could easi ly be damaged)
• camp out temporarily a reasonable distance from homes
• pick wild berries, mushrooms and flowers, as long as they are not protected species
• fish with a simple rod and line
• use boats, swim or bathe in inland waters and the sea
• walk, ski, or drive a motor vehicle or fish on frozenover lakes, rivers, and the sea
• all the above can be restricted or forbidden in na tional parks and other nature reserves during certain seasons or year-round to protect sensitive areas and threatened species of plants or animals. Please pay close attention to any restrictions.
• disturb people or damage property
• disturb reindeer, game, breeding birds, their nests or young
• let pets off leash
• cut down or damage trees
• collect moss, lichen, or fallen trees on other people’s property
• light open campfires without permission, except in an emergency
• disturb people’s privacy by camping too near them or making too much noise
• leave litter
• drive motor vehicles off road without the landowner’s permission
• hunt without the relevant permits
• fish with nets, traps, or a reel and lure without the relevant permits
More information on Everyman’s Rights in Finland (www.ym.fi, Ministry of the Environment)
You can obtain fishing permits for fishing on state-owned waters from Metsähallitus. Fishing permits are classified according to the fishing method: An angling permit al lows lure fishing, fly fishing, ice angling or angling, de pending on the terms of the permit area. A trap permit allows fishing with nets or traps. A crayfishing permit is also available for crayfishing.
Metsähallitus fishing destinations are usually running and rapids sections of waters with migratory fish stocks or pro tected areas, where fishing requires both a fisheries ma nagement fee and an angling permit. When fishing with multiple rods, traps and crayfishing on state-owned wa ters, you will always have to pay the fisheries management fee and also acquire a separate fishing permit from Metsähallitus.
Metsähallitus also issues and sells fishing permits for residents of the municipalities in Northern Lapland.
The purchase of a permit is an investment in nature, as Metsähallitus uses the proceeds from the permits for the management of fisheries and securing the future of fishing in Finland.
