Travel to Finland

Day 1 Lahti - Mikkeli (167 Km.)

Lahti: The city of Lahti is notable for its surroundings: the great lake Vesijärvi reaches the lake Päijänne and the forests and hills of Salpausselkä, where you can hike, ski and ride on the undulating terrain throughout all the year.

Lahti is famous for its sports facilities. The stadium with its enormous ski jump ramp is open all year and offers magnificent views over the surrounding green landscapes. Skiers can continue practicing their jumps in the summer although the central ramp becomes an open air pool during this time of the year.

Another place to visit in Lahti is Sibeliustalo, a conference hall and auditorium on the banks of Lake Vesijärvi. The building is a good example of contemporary wooden architecture. The auditorium is also the headquarters of the Lahti Symphony Orchestra. Other places of interest are Kauppatori (Market Square), the park activities for the whole family Launen perhepuisto the Laune shopping area and the waterfront with its boats.

(in 8 Km.) Hollola: The medieval church of Hollola, located on the shores of Lake Vesijärvi, was completed in 1480 in late Gothic style and dedicated to Saint Mary. It has many medieval wooden statues and an adorned internal door from the fourteenth century. The pulpit and altar dating from the seventeenth century. The church was restored in 1934-1935. The tower, designed by Carl Engel in the Empire style, was built between 1829 and 1831.

(in 45 Km.) Heinola: Located in the strait connecting Lakes Konnivesi and Ruotsalainen retains its wooden Lutheran church of the year 1755, with a annexed bell tower designed by C.L.Engel. Also highlights its town hall, built in 1775.

(in 92 Km.) Ristiina: In this population the history of past centuries is almost palpable in the open air museum of Pien-Toijola, where have been reproduced wooden huts typical of the region. Stand the ruins of the fortress of Brahelinna and the church of Ristiina. You can also visit the largest cave paintings of the Nordic countries in Astuvansalmi , with more than 5,000 years old.

(in 22 Km.) Mikkeli: We sleep in this city.