The small city of Savonlinna stands in the heart of one of Finland's most popular holiday areas. To Finns, the shores of Lake Saimaa offer a perfect location for beach, spa, activity, cultural or city breaks. If you hire a car in Savonlinna, you'll soon notice the number of holiday cottages dotted around this region of water-based landscapes. Visitors here can take cruises to try to spot the rare Saimaa Ringed Seal, while the Provincial Museum is a tourist highlight based on the lake island of Rihisaari - which is also a centre for traditional steamboats. Geographically speaking, Savonlinna's small airport is five miles to the north, and the Russian border is 3 miles to the east.
The main attraction and landmark of Savonlinna is the medieval castle of Olavinlinna. The world's most northerly castle is also Finland's best preserved. If you hire a car in Savonlinna you'll discover that castle stands at a picturesque spot on an island in the lake, connected to the city by a narrow bridge. Another attraction on an island in the city is the Spahotel Casino complex, with pools and saunas. In contrast, the small island of Sulosaari is a scenic retreat from the busy city centre; and from the city's waterfront, old ships offer cruises around the lakes. The Heinävesi route to Kuopio is especially acclaimed.
