Having relaxed in Hki it was time to move on to the lakeside town of Savonlinna. As noted previously, the town is famous for its opera festival (which we will always now know as its Oprah festival which seems to be the Finnish pronunciation.)
The train journey out of Hki is scenic, but not dramatically so. The journey to Parikkala takes about 3 1/2 hours where we changed for a regional train for the short ride to Savonlinna.
We were staying at Lossiranta Lodge. Not the cheapest of hotels but can't complain as we had stunning views of Olavinlinna - the castle responsible for the town's location.
Fortunately, we had some late summer sunshine and Andrew got to go swimming in the lake from the hotel's own pier (one can arrive by boat if one desires). As it was a Sunday and now basically off-season not a lot of choice for eating in the evening, but Majakka (Lighthouse) provided decent grub. Stroll round the town afterwards - small, clean and at this time of year, very quiet.
On the Monday we picked up the hire car and set out to explore some of the area around Savonlinna. Not for nothing is this area known for its forests and lakes. Our favourite stop was Enonkoski - even though we got caught in a short shower. Can recommend the cakes from the cafe opposite the library.
Few "sights" as such on this trip around the area, but should mention the church at Kerimäki - the largest wooden christian church in the world.
At breakfast (in good weather served in the garden) we chatted to a Finn who was on a business trip in E Finland for a week. If his expense account could stand it, we didn't blame him choosing Lossiranta over an anonymous business hotel. Second morning the weather wasn't so good so we had to "make do" with room service. Breakfast delivered in a wicker basket.
On checking out we were asked if we REALLY wanted to leave. Relaxing as it was - we were ready to go as we knew what was coming next.
wifi connection on the viking ferry not good enough to allow me to upload pics - they'll be added ASAP
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