South Savonia’s lively city of Mikkeli offers a chance to see magnificent rock paintings, and discover the secrets of the saloon car belonging to the Finnish military hero Mannerheim.
Mikkeli lies on the banks of Savilahti, a bay of Lake Saimaa. It is a great holiday destination, with things to do for the whole family, as well as travellers interested in historic sites. Mikkeli is well-known as a military headquarters, from which all the wars during Finland’s independence were directed. Here you can see Marshal Mannerheim’s salon car, and the Päämajamuseo (Command Centre Museum). In nearby Ristiina are the Astuvansalmi rock paintings, one of northern Europe’s finest examples.
A city break in Mikkeli ideally starts in the lively market square, surrounded by numerous restaurants and shops. Mikkeli’s centre can easily be explored on foot, as the city’s main sights are close to one another. Mannerheim’s salon car is right next to the city travel centre, allowing those interested to visit it the moment they arrive in town. Because the car is only rarely open to the public, visitors have to be content with peeping through the windows.
The Command Centre Museum is an opportunity to dive into history, because the commander-in-chief’s headquarters in Mikkeli’s Central Primary School has been restored to look exactly like it did during the Second World War. You will also find out about other major wartime events presented using hi-tech multimedia. At the same time, you can visit the Communications Centre in Naisvuori, known by the code name Lokki. Naisvuori also has an observation tower, to view the splendid scenery while enjoying some delicious waffles.
But don’t spend all your time in Mikkeli, as there is generally plenty to do in the area. Families simply cannot miss the acclaimed Visulahti holiday park, with its waxworks, the indoor play facility HyperDino, and of course, Dinosauria, where the entire family can enjoy adventurous activities. For those seeking a challenge, Visulahti also includes Xon Park, where you can cruise around on quad bikes and go-karts, or even try bungee jumping.
Southern Savonia has plenty to offer visitors even without its fancy gimmicks. The area’s splendid ancient sites provide an interesting, inexpensive alternative on a visit to Mikkeli. Hike through the forest to the famous Astuvansalmi rock paintings to view prehistoric human figures, boats and elk. Another ancient landmark is the 9, 000 year-old Pursiala Pothole (with a depth of 8 m in a rock formation, dating back to the Ice Age).
During any visit to Mikkeli, the magnificent manor houses should not be missed, many of which have restaurants and cafes open in the summer. Very close to the centre of Mikkeli is the Kenkävero Rectory, with its shops and exhibitions open all year long, and a restaurant serving locally-sourced food. At the Terti manor house, and at London Manor, you can enjoy delicious summer delicacies at the cafes in a superb historic setting.
Mikkeli is well served by public transport connections and roads, and offers a taste of excitement. Head here for a relaxing holiday alongside the waters of Lake Saimaa.
