Puumala offers an inviting mix of natural beauty and authentic Finnish culture, making it a perfect destination for unique tours. What makes Puumala stand out is its stunning Lake Saimaa scenery combined with opportunities to experience local traditions firsthand. Among the many options, we particularly enjoy the Lake Saimaa story cruise because it combines beautiful vistas with engaging storytelling, and the Puumala blueberry rye pie workshop for those who want to connect with Finnish culinary traditions. To explore the lake with a personal touch, check out the Private Saimaa Story Cruise with Captain Arto, which offers an intimate experience with the added bonus of wildlife viewing.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find three standout tours in Puumala:
– The Lake Saimaa story cruise by Ecoboat combines scenic views with storytelling and live accordion music.
– The Puumala: Blueberry Rye Pie Baking Workshop offers a cozy, hands-on experience in a historic log cabin.
– The Private Saimaa Story Cruise with Captain Arto provides a more personalized boat tour with wildlife spotting and local stories.
Now, let’s dive into what each of these experiences offers and help you decide which might be perfect for your trip.
1. Lake Saimaa story cruise by Ecoboat in Puumala
At number 1, the Lake Saimaa story cruise by Ecoboat is a fantastic way to soak in the lake’s natural beauty while enjoying lively storytelling. For around $40 per person, you get 1.5 hours of breathtaking scenery and engaging chat from the friendly captain. This eco-friendly, weather-proof boat is equipped to keep you comfortable regardless of the weather, making it a reliable choice in all seasons.
What sets this cruise apart is the combination of nature, wildlife, and storytelling. The captain shares stories about Finland’s flora and fauna, such as the elusive Saimaa Seal and Osprey, giving you a deeper understanding of the region’s ecology. The musical element adds a charming touch, with live accordion music and complimentary coffee or tea creating a cozy atmosphere. Reviewers consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and friendliness, with one calling the guide “very prepared and nice,” and noting how much they learned about Finnish traditions and animals.
Bottom Line: This cruise is perfect for visitors wanting a relaxing, informative experience on Lake Saimaa, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife and learn about the region’s history from a personable skipper.
2. Puumala: Blueberry Rye Pie Baking Workshop
For those interested in Finnish culinary traditions, the Puumala: Blueberry Rye Pie Baking Workshop ranks high on our list. For about 2 hours, you’ll learn how to make the famous “savolainen mustikkakukko”, a traditional blueberry rye pie, in a charming 1700s log cabin. This hands-on experience offers a rare glimpse into Finnish home life and baking techniques.
The instructor guides you through each step, sharing tips and stories about the region’s food culture. After baking, you’ll enjoy your freshly made pie with vanilla sauce and coffee, making the experience both delicious and satisfying. Guests rave about the cozy atmosphere of the traditional Finnish home, and you’ll leave with a new skill and the recipe to recreate this treat at home.
Key highlights include the chance to connect with Finnish traditions in a historic setting, plus the opportunity to take home your baked pie and recipe. If you’re a foodie or love hands-on experiences, this workshop offers great value, especially since it combines cultural learning with tasty results.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers or those wanting an authentic Finnish experience, this baking workshop combines tradition, skill, and deliciousness—all in a warm, welcoming setting.
3. Puumala: Private Saimaa Story Cruise with Captain Arto
Ranking third, the Private Saimaa Story Cruise with Captain Arto offers a personalized 1.5-hour journey on Lake Saimaa. Available from the Sahanlahti resort, this cruise is tailored to your interests, with Arto sharing stories about the region, its wildlife—including the rare Saimaa Seal—and local lore.
This tour uses a quiet, weather-proof Ecoboat, ideal for autumn or any season that calls for comfort. The itinerary includes a stop at Puumalan satama, a guided lake tour, wildlife viewing, and a short coffee break, making it a well-rounded experience. The small group size ensures a quiet, intimate atmosphere, perfect for photography or just relaxing and absorbing the scenery.
Reviews highlight Arto’s friendliness and storytelling skill, with an emphasis on the chance to see native wildlife. The inclusion of live accordion music and coffee makes it a cozy and authentic Finnish experience.
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for travelers wanting a private, flexible experience on Lake Saimaa, with a focus on wildlife, storytelling, and comfort.
$36 per person
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your interests and schedule. If you want a scenic, story-filled cruise, the Lake Saimaa story cruise by Ecoboat offers great value and lively narration. For a more immersive cultural experience, the Blueberry Rye Pie Baking Workshop is ideal—especially if you enjoy hands-on activities and authentic Finnish cuisine. If privacy and wildlife are your priorities, the Private Saimaa Story Cruise with Captain Arto provides a tailored experience with an expert guide.
Consider your budget, preferred pace, and whether you want to include food, wildlife, or storytelling in your outing. Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure your spot.
Puumala’s mix of natural beauty and local traditions makes it a wonderful place to explore from the water or through cultural activities. Whether you choose a scenic cruise, a baking class, or a private boat tour, each experience offers a memorable way to connect with this peaceful corner of Finland. For the best experience, plan ahead and reserve your spot early—these tours tend to fill up.