Escape to the heart of serene nature and embark on an adventurous journey at Boutique Hotel Salpalinjan Hovi. Salpalinjan Hovi is a family-run hotel, located 8 km from the centre of Lappeenranta in the middle of beautiful nature, operating in accordance with the principles of sustainable development.
Salpalinjan Hovi is a manor-like hotel housed in a former village school built from log, now fully renovated and offering six modern apartment suites which have been furnished according to different school subjects. Each room has its own kitchen corner, bathroom and TV, ensuring a comfortable stay. Guests can reserve the traditional Finnish sauna for their exclusive use, or enjoy a combination of traditional Finnish sauna and surrounding nature in the outdoor hot tub. Salpalinjan Hovi derives its name from its proximity to a significant piece of wartime history – the Salpa Line.
Nature, Culture, and Gastronomy at Salpalinjan Hovi
Salpalinjan Hovi is situated within the enchanting landscape UNESCO Saimaa Global Geopark, an area that brings together Saimaa’s stunning nature sites, charming hiking trails and historic cultural sites, all of which are well worth experiencing. Guests can begin their hikes directly from the hotel, with the paths that follow the beautiful shores of Lake Saimaa well worth exploring. The information boards introduce you to the traces of the ice age, and you can stop for a lunch break at the grill shelter. Visitors can also take a walk along the village trail to explore the area’s log floating and lumber mill history.
Nature activities available include freshwater swimming, fishing, birdwatching, mushroom and berry picking in the surrounding forests, canoeing and kayaking, and great biking routes. You can explore the Salpa line underground bunkers and field fortresses built in the 1940s. Salpa line is a defensive line against the Soviet Union’s attack from the Second World War.
Guests at Salpalinjan Hovi can choose to relax in nature or to spend an active holiday canoeing and fishing on Lake Saimaa. The focus is on nature and cultural tourism, as well as food tourism throughout the year. For 2024, the Saimaa region has been awarded the prestigious international European Region of Gastronomy status in recognition of Eastern Finland’s unique food culture. The upcoming year will witness a celebration through a series of innovative events, seamlessly intertwining the cultural heritage, arts, and local cuisine in unprecedented ways.
Lappeenranta’s Historic Gems and Nearby Towns
Salpalinjan Hovi is located a short distance from the lakeside city of Lappeenranta, whose natural charm has ensured its popularity as a tourist destination. Key sights and attractions include the Lappeenranta Fortress area, where the oldest buildings, including the guardhouse at the Main Gate that nowadays hosts the Cavalry Museum; the South Karelia Museum of Art buildings, the Orthodox Church and the Commandant’s House date from the latter part of the 18th century. Beneath the fortress is Lappeenranta harbour, which annually hosts a majestic sandcastle, and other kiddies activities. Visitors can also enjoy a choice of lake cruises of various lengths. At Myllysaari beach there’s a big water slide, jumping tower and swimming area, with several beach volley courts, all of which are free.
Other nearby towns worth exploring are Imatra, where visitors can view the rapids, the unique Valtion hotelli, and Imatra Spa. Nearby Ylämaa, famous for its spectrolite, hosts an international jewellery and mineral fair, which is Finland’s oldest and biggest event in its field.
Year-Round Adventures
Salpalinjan Hovi warmly welcomes visitors all year round, offering a myriad of activities tailored to every season. Next to the hotel, in winter there is an illuminated ice rink for skating, with cross-country skiing trails just 100 metres away. Guests can borrow skates, skis, snow shoes and even sleds from the hotel.
Explore our comprehensive offerings, which encompasses enticing experiences such as a winter travel package, a three-night cycling adventure, a guided tour delving into Salpalinja history and bunkers, and an immersive Lake Saimaa, Sauna, and local delicacies “Feel like a Finn” tour, specifically designed for those with an interest in food, nature, and relaxation, this tour provides an authentic and enriching experience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a tranquil retreat, Salpalinjan Hovi has tailored offerings to suit your preferences and make your stay truly memorable.
