Lakeland Delights – A Cultural & Culinary Voyage
This Treasures of Heinävesi is a charming and experience-rich group tour that blends the serene beauty of the Saimaa lake system, the spiritual heritage of Finnish Orthodox monasteries, and the warm hospitality of local small-scale producers. This unique journey takes you through the living culture and history of Heinävesi, including visits to the Valamo and Lintula monasteries. The region is known for its lush forests, clear lakes, and a network of historic canals that form the scenic Heinävesi water route – one of Finland’s most beautiful inland waterways.
Steamboat Romance & Historic Canals
Heinävesi’s seven historic canals – including Karvio, Kerman, and Vihovuonne – have served water travelers for over a century. A cruise on the S/S Heinävesi steamship brings this history to life: the rhythm of the steam engine, the splash of water, and majestic lake landscapes take you back in time — without sacrificing modern comfort. Onboard, you’ll enjoy:
Culture, Spirituality & Local Life
Heinävesi offers not only natural beauty but also a rich spiritual and cultural dimension. The Orthodox monasteries of Valamo and Lintula welcome visitors seeking peace, reflection, and connection to a unique living heritage. During the summer, the villages come alive with local events, concerts, and vibrant market life.
Steamship
A historic steamship carries passengers from Savonlinna or Kuopio along the scenic Heinävesi water route. The cruise offers breathtaking lake views and a delicious lunch served in the ship's restaurant.
Dining on board – Enjoy delicious meals made from locally sourced ingredients: lunch, dinner, and fresh pastries with coffee.
Café & Bar – Refreshments, snacks, and beverages – including alcoholic drinks – available throughout the cruise.
Atmospheric Salons – Relax in the elegant royal salon or take in the views from the open deck.
Group Tour | August 1–September 30, 2025
Min. 30 – Max. 40 participants
Travel by the group’s own bus
Tour Program
Day 1 – Thursday
09:00 Departure from Savonlinna or Kuopio on the S/S Heinävesi cruise to Karvio guest harbour
Lunch served on board
16:30 Arrival in Heinävesi, transfer to Valamo Monastery, check-in
Optional participation in the evening service at the monastery church
Buffet dinner at Trapesa, the monastery restaurant
Day 2 – Friday
07:30 Monastery breakfast at Trapesa
10:10 Departure to Lintula Convent
Guided visit to the convent church and walking tour via the cemetery and flower field to the old manor
Soup lunch at Lintula and time for shopping in the monastery store (herbs, candles, coffee)
14:00 Return to Valamo Monastery
Free time at the monastery grounds
15:30 Guided monastery tour + optional visit to exhibitions & museum
18:00 Optional participation in the evening service
19:00 Buffet dinner & Q&A with a monk at Trapesa
Day 3 – Saturday
07:30 Monastery breakfast
10:00 Departure for Heinävesi harbour
10:30 Coffee & shopping break at Kermacota café-restaurant
11:50 Transfer to Kermankeidas
12:30 Nature walk and lunch at Kermankeidas
14:30 Return to Valamo
Free time at the monastery
18:00 Optional evening service
19:00 Wine tasting and festive dinner at Trapesa
Day 4 – Sunday
07:30 Monastery breakfast
09:00 Shopping time in Valamo's monastery shops
10:00 Departure by coach to Savonlinna or Kuopio
Price starting from: 800 €/person
Includes: Accommodation in double rooms. Full board: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Steamboat cruise. Guided visits, monastery entry tickets & exhibitions
Optional (at extra cost & pre-order)
- Day cabin on the steamship
- Single room supplement
- Extra nights and accommodation in Kuopio or Savonlinna
- Group transfers if needed outside of own bus
