The Saimaa Lake Cycling Escape

7 days 6 nights
Finland
Photo Kirsi P.
Kirsi P.
Tour Provider
View Kirsi’s tours
Difficulty
Moderate
Comfort
Midscale
Upscale
Group size
2-14 tourists,
over 10 y.o.

This cycling holiday around Lake Saimaa belongs to the journey that moves at the pace of water, wind, and quiet roads. From the first ride along the lakeshore to the last evening sauna, the days are full with memorable moments — guided by nature, light, and the rhythm of the landscape. South Karelia welcomes you with open views, calm waters, and long summer evenings that invite you to stay outside just a little longer.

Each day brings a new route and a new side of the region. You cycle along the shores of Lake Saimaa, follow the historic Saimaa Canal, ride through the open landscapes of Taipalsaari, and explore the river scenery of Imatra and Vuoksi. Along the way, there is time to stop, breathe, take photos, and enjoy local life. A boat cruise on Lake Saimaa adds a slower moment, while the surrounding geopark sites and small towns reveal the character of the area. Routes are planned for easy riding, and you are free to choose your own pace.

Your base is a former village school turned into a welcoming hotel surrounded by nature and history. After cycling, evenings are spent in a traditional wood-heated sauna, followed by dinner and quiet rest. Bikes, routes, and luggage are taken care of, so you can focus on the ride, the scenery, and the feeling of being fully present. Join this journey to discover Lake Saimaa in the most natural way — by bike, by water, and at your own rhythm!

Please note: Self-guided tour.
Please inquire about the availability of the trip in 2026.

from
$1,560
per tourist for 7 days
This tour is booked individually on request
Any dates between 1 Jun and 15 Oct are available. Сlick to book or contact tour provider.
Number of individuals
2-14 tourists, over 10 y.o.
Only in the Hiking Trekking Club
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Photo Kirsi P.
Kirsi P. is the provider of this trip
The provider speaks: English, Finnish
I am an entrepreneur working at the company which organizes vacation activities in Finland.

Tour highlights

cycling
Ride the Shores of Lake Saimaa
Cycle along peaceful lakeside roads with open views and fresh northern air
canal
Scenic Routes with Stories
From the Saimaa Canal to Imatra rapids, every ride has history and character
sauna
Sauna Evenings, Finnish Style
End each day with a wood-heated sauna and deep relaxation

Route details

Day 1
Arrival

Arrival in Lappeenranta and transfer to Hotel Salpalinjan Hovi. Welcome to the hotel, surrounded by nature and local history. Dinner at the hotel and a relaxing evening sauna.

city
canal 5 more photos
Day 2
Cycling Along Lake Saimaa
Day 3
Saimaa Canal Ride
Day 4
Taipalsaari Scenic Road
Day 5
Imatra and Vuoksi River
Day 6
Saimaa Cruise and Free Time
Day 7
Departure
Difficulty
Moderate
Does not require physical training but involves moderate physical activity

Accommodation

Comfort
Midscale
Upscale
Hotel
6 nights
6 nights
Hotel Salpalinjan Hovi

You will stay at the comfortable manor-style Hotel Salpalinjan Hovi, located about 9 km from the centre of Lappeenranta. The hotel is surrounded by the peaceful nature of South Karelia and lies close to the Saimaa Geopark area and the historic Salpa Line, an important part of Finland’s wartime heritage.

During the days, you explore the area by bicycle, riding along scenic roads and cycling paths. Moving from place to place by bike is an easy and ecological way to travel, giving you gentle exercise and time to clear your mind. After an active day outdoors, you return to Salpalinjan Hovi to relax in a traditional wood-heated Finnish sauna. The warmth helps your muscles recover, and the calm atmosphere invites you to slow down.

In the evening, you can enjoy the quiet surroundings of the hotel, which is located in a beautifully renovated former village school built of logs. Each room is individually decorated around different school subjects and includes a small kitchenette, bathroom, TV, and Wi-Fi. You can prepare coffee or light meals yourself, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful setting.

Single supplement 1495 €

Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route
You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on
  • the forecasts for this season
  • the statistics from previous years’ trips

Conditions

Included
  • accommodation for 6 nights in double/twin room;
  • 6 x breakfast;
  • 5 x dinner;
  • private sauna shifts;
  • rented bicycles with gears and helmets;
  • maps and route planning according your interests and strength;
  • visit to the Salpa-line cave.
Extras
  • travel insurance;
  • flights;
  • electric bike + 190 € / person;*
  • snack package for bicycle tours;*
  • tranfer from / to Railway station or Airport + 55€/person;*
  • train tickets.*

on request*

It's important to know

Personal equipment you need for the tour
  • suitable clothing and footwear for different weather conditions. 
     
Please note
Travel insurance
Price
Cancellation of booking

Reviews

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Dates and Prices

  • Any dates on request during the season
    1 Jun – 15 Oct
    Request to book

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