Lake Saimaa, Finland’s largest lake, is best explored by bike from Savonlinna and its medieval Olavinlinna castle, on country roads running alongside one of Europe’s largest lake networks.
A road along Finland’s largest lake
From Savonlinna, the road follows the shores of Lake Saimaa toward the Punkaharju ridge and then Kerimäki, famous for its enormous wooden church. Expect around 40 km and 300 m of elevation gain for a loop representative of the region, on gently rolling terrain typical of the Finnish lakeland.
Getting the ride right
Moderate gearing is enough for this ride, with a generally gentle profile. The Punkaharju ridge, a historic scenic road between two parts of the lake, is worth a stop to admire this characteristic glacier-shaped landscape.
When to go
May to September, with the long days of the Nordic summer offering the most flexibility in timing. As Lake Saimaa stays frozen for much of the winter, the cycling season stays concentrated in the warmer months.
Good to know
Savonlinna, famous for its summer opera festival at Olavinlinna castle, offers a full range of accommodation, with convenient access to Kerimäki for extending the stay in the Saimaa lake region.
