The rural municipality of Mäntyharju has dozens of waterways and beautiful forests, and which guarantee amazing opportunities for sports and outdoor activities. You can go trekking on the Mäntyharju-Repovesi trails, go mountain climbing or horseback riding and enjoy fishing. Come and participate in the numerous cultural events organised by the municipality, including concerts and art exhibitions, and see local history at the old church at the Mäntyharju Church Village and the fascinating museum areas nearby.
The municipality of Mäntyharju is located in the Southern Savonia region, and its luxurious landscapes and lake districts make it one of the most popular places for summer cottage living, in particular as the population often triples during the summer. Mäntyharju was the boundary between three Finnish tribes – the Häme, the Savo and the Karelia – with a trident carved in rock marking the borders of the tribes. The Mäntyharju of today has evolved into a lively rural municipality. Among its most popular sights is the wooden truss bridge that crosses Lahnavesi Lake, the Vihantasalmi Bridge.
Finland is known for its unique wildlife, but you really see it come alive in its national parks you can visit one of the most popular parks in Mäntyharju. The glorious landscapes of the Repovesi National Park are the perfect setting for trekking, swimming, rowing, cycling and rock climbing. For those who enjoy the outdoors, Mäntyharju is a true haven all year round, as the many forest trails and lakes are excellent routes for cross-country skiing or skating on natural ice. There are plenty of places to rent ice skates, ice sleighs and snow shoes in Mäntyharju.
Visit the Mäntyharju Church, the second largest wood church in Finland. Designed by the Italian architect, Charles Bassi, this beautiful church was completed in the early part of the 19th century, and it is the largest building with horizontally-laid, corner-notched logs in Finland. Step in through the doors of the church and admire Bredt Godenhjelm's altar piece dating back to1839 and listen to the beautiful church organ music. The church is also a venue for a number of concerts, especially during the summer.
Another excellent location to visit on a summer trip to Mäntyharju is the Iso-Pappila Open-Air Museum, where the whole family can learn more about the history of the area. Iso-Pappila also boasts the Mäntyharju Summer Theatre and the Veteran's Memorial Park and Military Dugout Museum, featuring wartime photographs and artefacts. On a summer holiday to Mäntyharju, don’t forget to visit the Art Centre Salmela, which hosts cultural events such as concerts, lectures and art exhibitions throughout the summer.
The Art Centre Salmela gallery is in the 1850s parish house, located on the shores of Lake Pyhävesi. If you enjoy architecture, the beautiful old-fashioned exhibition buildings are also worth seeing. Pop in for a coffee or a tasty lunch at the Art Centre's restaurant and enjoy the beauty of a summer’s day in Finland to its fullest.
The municipality of Mäntyharju is at its most lively in the summer, but winter is also a fantastic time to visit Mäntyharju. Once Mäntyharju goes quiet under a blanket of snow, you can relax in a snowy forest or in a rented log cabin next to an inviting fire. No matter the season, Mäntyharju is a place where you can relax and unwind.
