The Finnish Lakeland

This internationally renowned event is Finland’s most famous festival, with an enviably dramatic setting: the covered courtyard of Olavinlinna Castle.

Two primarily watery national parks in the Savonlinna area – Kolovesi and Linnansaari – offer fabulous lakescapes dotted with islands that are best explored by hiring a canoe or kayak. Several outfitters offer these services, and free camping spots dot the lakes’ shores. It's the best part of the Lakeland to really get up close and personal with this region’s natural beauty.

This is the habitat of the endangered freshwater Saimaa ringed seal. Separated from its Baltic cousins at the end of the last Ice Age, it was in imminent danger of extinction during the 20th century due to hunting and human interference. Though there remain only a precarious 300-odd of the greyish beasts, population levels are on the increase. Late May is the most likely time to see seals, as they are moulting and spend much time on rocks.

This giant savusauna (smoke sauna) is a memorable, sociable experience. It seats 60 and is mixed: you're given towels to wear. Bring a swimsuit for lake dipping – devoted locals and brave tourists do so even when it’s covered with ice. Repeat the process several times. Then buy a beer and relax, looking out over the lake in Nordic peace.

Finland’s only Orthodox monastery is idyllically located on an island in Juojävi. Visitors are free to roam the site and enter the churches. The first church was made by connecting two sheds; the rustic architecture contrasts curiously with its gilded icons. The modern church has an onion-shaped dome and an incense-saturated interior featuring an elaborate iconostasis. Visitors can follow a 4.5km marked walking trail to a pilgrim's wooden cross located on the lake's edge.

Operates the M/S Puijo, which sails along the Heinävesi Canal Route to/from Savonlinna (one way €95, 10½ hours) on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, returning on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Return same-day transport by car (€130, minimum four passengers) is offered.