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Lake Paijanne
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Lake Päijänne is the second largest lake in Finland, covering 1,080 square kilometers, and is the deepest freshwater body in the country. It spans 119 kilometers from Lahti in the south to Jyväskylä in the north. The lake serves a vital role in Finnish infrastructure, providing drinking water to the Helsinki metropolitan area via the 120-kilometer-long Päijänne Water Tunnel. Geologically, its basin was carved by glacial erosion, reaching a maximum depth of 95 meters. The Päijänne National Park, located in the southern part of the lake, protects a unique archipelago and esker formations left behind by retreating glaciers. It is also a key hub for water transport and timber rafting in Central Finland. Nowadays, the lake is a favored venue for sailing, commercial vendace fishing, and recreational tourism.
- Location: Finland
- Top sights: Särkilahden uimaranta · Torpanmäen kiviaita
- Nearby: Heinola (50 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -9 | -8 | -4 | 4 | 10 | 15 | 18 | 16 | 11 | 4 | -1 | -6 |
| Rain mm | 54 | 41 | 40 | 47 | 64 | 96 | 98 | 82 | 71 | 74 | 66 | 64 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Lake Päijänne can be reached via major roads connecting Lahti, Jyväskylä, and surrounding towns. Several local ferry services and bridges typically provide access to the islands and deeper parts of the lake.
Best season
The warmer months from June to August are handy for taking advantage of the lake scenery and outdoor trips. Winter visits require preparation for severe cold but offer beautiful snowy vistas.
Terrain & paths
The lake is dotted with numerous islands and features shorelines ranging from rocky outcrops to soft sandy beaches. Coastal trails vary from easy paved paths near towns to more rugged forest routes.
What to bring
Insect repellent is highly advisable during the summer months due to mosquitoes near the water. Waterproof footwear is useful if you plan to explore the marshier areas or hike along the water's edge.
Parking
You can typically find parking at local national park entrances or near town harbors. Free parking is common, but strict time limits may apply in some of the busier urban areas around the lake.
Safety
Be cautious of submerged rocks if you are swimming or navigating a small vessel. Summer storms can cause sudden choppy waters, so always wear a properly fitted life jacket when boating.
Time needed
Visitors usually spend a half to a full day exploring the shores or taking a relaxing cruise. An overnight stay in a nearby traditional cabin is very popular for a more immersive natural experience.
Geography
Facts
- The maximum depth of 95 meters is reached at Rappukallio.
- The Päijänne Tunnel is the world's second-longest continuous rock tunnel.
- The lake surface is situated at 78.3 meters above sea level.
- There are 1,886 islands located within the Päijänne lake basin.
- The total volume of water is approximately 18.1 cubic kilometers.
- The annual catch of vendace (Muikku) is one of the highest in Finland.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Lake Paijanne (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Lake Päijänne known for?
It's Finland's second largest lake and provides drinking water for Helsinki.
How deep is the lake?
At 95 meters, it is the deepest lake in Finland.
Is there a national park?
Yes, the Päijänne National Park covers many islands in the southern part.
Can you take boat cruises on the lake?
Yes, regular boat services run between Lahti and Jyväskylä in summer.
What is Pulkkilanharju?
A spectacular esker ridge with a road running right through the lake.
Lake Paijanne: where is it located?
Lake Paijanne is located in Finland.
Lake Paijanne: what is there to see?
Highlights include Särkilahden uimaranta, Torpanmäen kiviaita.
Lake Paijanne: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Lake Paijanne: why is it worth visiting?
Lake Päijänne is the second largest lake in Finland, covering 1,080 square kilometers, and is the deepest freshwater body in the country.
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Nearby cities
Sysmä
A tradition-rich village by Lake Päijänne, famous for its historic manors and traditional Sahti beer.
Hartola
Hartola is located in Päijät-Häme.
Joutsa
Joutsa is located in central Finland.
Padasjoki
A boater's paradise on Lake Päijänne and a primary gateway to the Päijänne National Park.
Jämsä
An important service center in Central Finland, known as the gateway to the Himos resort and for its felt boot traditions.
Asikkala
Famous for the Vääksy Canal and the spectacular Pulkkilanharju esker ridge between two major lakes.
Vierumäki
A premier sports and leisure hub in Finland, surrounded by beautiful nature and lake landscapes.
Hollola
Hollola is located in Päijät-Häme near Lahti.
Hirvensalmi
Hirvensalmi is located in Southern Savonia.
Orivesi
Orivesi is located in Pirkanmaa.
Mänttä-Vilppula
Mänttä-Vilppula is located in the Pirkanmaa region.
History & landmarks
Nature
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Isojärvi National Park
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This wooden church was built in 1845.
Toivakka Church
The church built in 1878 is known for its unique ceiling paintings.
Lahti Cleantech Park
Innovation site for environmentally friendly technologies and sustainable industrial solutions.
Repovesi
Repovesi is a national park in the Kouvola region.
Kangasniemi Church
The church completed in 1815 is a large wooden building.
Petäjävesi Old Church
Petäjävesi Old Church is a remarkable example of 18th-century Finnish wooden architecture.