Kerimäki combines the remarkable scale of its wooden church with the clear waters of Puruvesi and the natural and cultural landscapes of Hytermä. Different priorities come into play when planning a visit: beaches and the summer sale of vendace stand in contrast to winter ski trails. The timing of a church visit also needs to be taken into account at present.

Puruvesi, Kirkkoranta and Hytermä

Puruvesi surrounds Kerimäki and is considered exceptionally clean and clear within the Saimaa lake district. Kirkkoranta, a sandy beach and guest harbour, is located in the centre of Kerimäki. The beach slopes gently into the water and is suitable for families with children. Boaters can use the service quay, which has three to five berths, a drinking water point, waste disposal, electrical connections and a slipway.

Hytermä offers a different focus: the three islands have been protected since 1932; the area was the first nature reserve in the then Mikkeli Province. On the main island, an easy-to-walk nature trail follows in the footsteps of Romu-Heikki around the island. The landscape also features a distinctive collection of rock art and old buildings. On hot days, you can swim from the fine sandy beaches. If you want to explore the island group from the water, you can rent a rowing boat; check availability before your trip.

The wooden church and its scale

Kerimäki Church is the largest wooden church in the world. It will be closed throughout 2026 for renovation work. If you are planning to visit later, check its status again after 31 December 2026.

The church is 45 metres long, 42 metres wide and 27 metres high; it measures 37 metres to the top of the cross. The pews have a combined length of about 1,670 metres. There are more than 3,000 seats and about 5,000 places, including standing room. The length and width describe the building’s footprint, while the height measurements also include the top of the cross.

Summer activities and winter ski trails

In summer, fresh Puruvesi-caught vendace is sold on Fridays at the foot of the church. Since this is a seasonal offering, check the current sales arrangements locally. For another activity, Kerigolf’s course is set in a beautiful woodland landscape, where changes in elevation add variety to the game.

In winter, Kerimäki has well-maintained cross-country ski trails in varied terrain. When conditions are suitable, skiing is also possible on the ice of Lake Saimaa. Check local conditions before your trip. The seasons bring different highlights: summer means beaches and vendace sales, while winter offers cross-country skiing and—when conditions allow—activities on the ice.

Getting there and planning your trip

You can reach Kerimäki from Savonlinna by bus in about 30 minutes; the distance is around 23 kilometres. If you are travelling by bus, check the timetable for your travel date. To choose the focus of your stay, weigh up culture, water and nature: the church and Kirkkoranta are in the centre of Kerimäki, while Hytermä offers its own natural and cultural highlights, including a nature trail, rock art, old buildings and island beaches.

Discover more destinations: Sulkava, Lötjölä, Kumpuranta, Piojärvi, Vuoriniemi, Hiukkajoki, Ihamaniemi, Oravi

Back to the main travel overview: Savonlinna.