Lake Saimaa region initiates new tourism management organization

Stakeholders in the Lake Saimaa region are initiating the development of a new Destination Management Organisation (DMO) to strengthen the area's international tourism profile. Members of Lake Saimaa ry have decided to move forward with a collaborative structure involving the cities of Imatra, Lappeenranta, Mikkeli, Savonlinna, and Varkauden, alongside regional councils.

The DMO aims to centralize international marketing, sales promotion, and product development to encourage foreign tourists to stay longer and utilize local services. The process is described by Lake Saimaa ry chairperson Kirsi Mutka-Paintola as a “step-by-step process” rather than a general study. The initial startup phase requires an estimated 100,000 euros in expert services.

In conjunction with these organizational efforts, new tourism infrastructure is being planned in Savonlinna. A project is underway to develop a 260-kilometer cycling route designed to connect villages and showcase the region's nature and culture. The goal is to move cyclists away from main roads and onto scenic paths, with the completed routes intended for marketing at the January 2027 travel fairs.