Cycle through the hidden gems of Saimaa.
Taipalsaari is a hidden gem for bikepackers, where the landscapes of Lake Saimaa and diverse routes invite you to explore.
The Saimaa Archipelago Route offers unforgettable experiences, and the downloadable Cyclist’s Guide makes planning your trip easy.
Pack your bike and your curiosity – and point your wheels toward Taipalsaari!
Jump in the saddle and take a ride on the Saimaa island route
Saimaa Archipelago Route – experiences through Taipalsaari!
Pedal through Taipalsaari’s idyllic landscapes and experience Saimaa at its finest.
The route combines cycling, water crossings, and unique natural attractions.
Explore Taipalsaari by Bike
Discover Taipalsaari by Scenic Bike Route
Distance: 43-68 km
If you enjoy waterway landscapes, head to Taipalsaari’s scenic cycling route!
The causeway between Taipalsaari and Lappeenranta, offering breathtaking views of Lake Saimaa, is considered one of the most beautiful roads in Finland.
You can start the route either from Taipalsaari or Lappeenranta. The route mostly follows paved roads and bike paths.
The route is highly customizable. The 50+ kilometer loop passes through the villages of Rehula and Levänen. The longest route option, about 68 kilometers, also includes about 10 km of gravel roads, taking you through Levänen and Solkki.
This route is suitable for all types of cyclists, and if you wish, you can easily find places to stay overnight along the way.
Day trip from Taipalsaari to Päihänniemi
Distance: 47 km
Set off on a bike trip from Taipalsaari to Päihäniemi, a stunning recreation area and Saimaa Geopark destination!
The route takes you through beautiful countryside landscapes, and at Päihäniemi, you’ll find long sandy beaches, tranquility, and great spots for a break with excellent hiking facilities. The unique nature and geological history of Päihäniemi make the trip both refreshing and fascinating.
The route is perfect for a day trip and follows both paved and gravel roads.
Along the way, you’ll find charming spots to stop and overnight, such as the Villa Ketvele accommodation at Kattelus Island, and on Saturdays, the Rehula Summer Market at the Rehula sports field.
Western Saimaa Fortress Tour
Distance: 133.7 km
The Fortress Tour introduces cyclists to fortifications from different eras and beautiful lake landscapes.
Along the way, be sure to stop at the prehistoric hillfort of Kuivaketvele, dated to the Viking Age, where you can safely climb to the top via stairs.
In Taipalsaari’s church village, you’ll find the historic Röytyn Local History House, which has served as both a military residence and an inn. A café operates there in the summer.
Taipalsaari’s church village is located on Kirkkosaari, which is accessible by bridges and causeways from multiple directions. The cultural landscape of fields and houses offers a contrast to the forested nature, and the lake views are sure to refresh the cyclist’s mind.
The route follows paved roads.
Bike Day Trip from Taipalsaari to Jänkäsaloon – an island adventure by bike on Lake Saimaa!
Distance: 24/33 km (round trip)
Embark on an unforgettable bike ride from Taipalsaari to Jänkäsalo and back, a total of 24 or 33 km of scenic travel for the whole family. The route takes you through beautiful landscapes and offers a unique experience with a ferry ride to Jänkäsalo Island.
At the ferry landing, you can visit a self-service kiosk or browse books in the small self-service library. The adventure can continue along the island’s gravel roads for about 4 km, leading you to the Jänkäsalo sports field. There, you can enjoy a picnic by the village’s lean-to, fill your water bottle at the well, and relax in the peaceful surroundings. The area also features a frisbee golf course.
The route follows both paved and gravel roads.
Spend a perfect day cycling leisurely on Lake Saimaa!
Saimaa Archipelago Route and Puumala Archipelago Route
Distance: 210 km
Cyclists have a unique opportunity to combine two fascinating island routes in the stunning landscapes of Lake Saimaa!
The Saimaa Archipelago Route (150 km) and the Puumala Archipelago Route (60 km) can be combined into one long bike trip.
The Ms. Rasti bike ferry connects the Saimaa Archipelago Route and the Puumala Archipelago Route between Sarviniemi and Lintusalo three times a week during the summer, providing an easy and convenient transfer between the two beautiful routes. The route takes cyclists through the diverse archipelago landscapes of Saimaa, with plenty of stops along the way to enjoy peaceful lake views, the richness of nature, and unique services.
This route is the perfect choice for those who want to experience the true essence of Saimaa by bike—enjoying unforgettable experiences and the tranquility of nature at a leisurely pace.