by Margery Wilson

Savonlinna is set on islands amid the largest lake district in Europe, and is one of the most popular holiday regions in Finland.  The scenic lake district of Saimaa offers visitors an idyllic setting for a cultural, spa, beach, sport or city holiday – or for a combination of these.

The region offers a wealth of cultural attractions. The jewel in the crown is the Savonlinna Opera Festival held every July which attracts over 60,000 visitors from all over the world. While many opera goers stay in Savonlinna, the majority converge on the town by bus, train and plane from Helsinki and other towns. A stunning schedule of transportation options is timed to opera performances.

Olavinlinna Castle

The Opera Festival attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world to the venue at  medieval Olavinlinna (St. Olaf’s Castle), built in 1475.

OPERA BY YOU The Savonlinna Opera Festival has launched a project any member of the Internet community can help to write the libretto, compose the music, design the sets and costumes – from beginning to end. (Click HERE to visit the official site)

The Savonlinna Opera Festival will in turn be placing world-class soloists, a chorus of 80, a symphony orchestra and its entire production machinery at the community’s disposal. The community opera will be premiered at the Savonlinna Opera Festival in summer 2012.

“Writing the libretto and music for an opera has traditionally been the work of only a few, as has the visual designing” says Savonlinna Opera Festival General Director Jan Hultin. “We now want a large group of people to take part in this unique creative process from the very beginning. Through this project we can, I believe, tempt new people into the rich and colourful world of opera.”

“We’re really excited to see what the community achieves. Hopefully something that’s never before been seen in Olavinlinna Castle,” says the man in charge of the ultimate production, Jukka Pohjolainen.  Gailen and Margery spoke with marketing director Tiina Olkkonen on our June 8 show. (Listen HERE)

WHEN THE FAT LADY HAS SUNG HER LAST NOTE:

SAVONLINNA  IS A YEAR ROUND RESORT

Set on the shores of Lake Saimaa, Savonlinna offers year round activities. Cruises are offered on every sort of craft imaginable, from motor boats holding a half dozen people to vintage steam ships built at the turn of the century that offer state rooms for overnight stays. In summer Savonlinna and its surroundings are a paradise for those seeking an active holiday. The groves and isles of Linnansaari national park and the ruggedly handsome cliffs of Kolovesi national park are perfect for summertime adventures. Wildlife abounds in the Lake Saimaa´s wilderness:  elks, bears, wildcats, foxes, rabbits, and the endangered Saimaa ringed seal.  Local beaches are clean and attract families during the warm summer months. Linnansaari National park is a convenient day trip and offers hiking, rock climbing, and tours by Icelandic horses.

Spa life á la Savonlinna

Saunas are perfected in Finland.  They are not only small heated rooms as is seen in many resorts around the world.  In Savonlinna one can try cleansing turf saunas as well as the traditional smoke sauna, and always followed by an invigorating swim or  icy dip.  In addition to being a sauna paradise, the area has many high level spa services, luxury treatments and massage as well as exercise, gym and leisure time services.

Kicksledding Kid

WHEN SUMMER ENDS there are fewer visitors, but the region is a draw for those seeking cold weather activities.  Tour skating and kicksledding is popular from December to the end of March. Entire families can be found skating and sledding across the lakes.

Ice Fishing Golf

ICE FISHING GOLF (“Golfpilkki”):  Ice-fishing golf combines golf and fishing into one surprisingly competitive sport.  Unlike regular golf, ice fishing golf has no handicap system. Even a good golfer can come away empty handed and lose if the fish don’t bite.  Similarly, a lucky or skilful angler can lose his or her catch if a fellow competitor can “steal” his fish through lucky or skilful golf shots.  Tournaments are social and often hilarious events where beginners can walk away with the grand prize.  Curious about the rules? Find them HERE.

Ready to visit? For information on Savonlinna click HERE.

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