The Savonlinna region is known for its unique lake scenery, historical attractions and rich cultural heritage. The medieval Olavinlinna Castle, named after a Viking king, the world’s biggest wooden church, Lake Saimaa, Kolovesi and Linnansaari national parks and numerous other natural and cultural sites in the area are valuable environments for local residents, entrepreneurs and tourists alike. To ensure the preservation of the region’s riches, tourism operators in the Savonlinna region are involved in the national sustainable tourism program, which guides operators to an increasingly sustainable future.
Tourism in the Savonlinna region is diverse and largely relies on services and products produced by locally-owned companies. The area emphasizes the characteristics of nature and local culture and offers environmentally-friendly activities. The goal is to preserve the region’s cultural heritage and natural diversity, and to minimize the impact of tourism on the environment and the local community.
In August, the tourist area of the Savonlinna region reached a significant milestone, when Visit Finland awarded the area the Sustainable Travel Finland (STF) label for destinations. The label is an indication of commitment and systematical work to promote sustainable tourism. Local companies are strongly involved in the development of sustainable tourism in the region, as up to 70 % of companies engaged in international tourism in the Savonlinna region have passed the sustainable tourism program and received the STF label.
One of the pioneering companies in sustainable tourism operating in the region is Lomamokkila, which provides farm and cottage accommodation and has more than 40 years of traditions in accommodating guests. Sustainable operating methods have been in Lomamokkila’s DNA since the beginning of operations, and the values have been passed down from generation to generation. Over the years, the company has minimized its carbon footprint by improving its energy efficiency and investing in renewable forms of energy. The forests surrounding the farm are managed in a sustainable way as much as possible, and all the buildings are made of wood to enhance carbon sequestration. At the farm, visitors can get to know the authentic Finnish way of life, and environmentally-friendly nature activities offer guests unforgettable experiences. Local food and produce from the farm play the main role in the ingredients, which are refined into tasty dishes in the farm’s kitchen.
