Situated on the northern shore of Lake Pielinen, Nurmes offers Karelian traditions and magnificent scenery.
The town of Nurmes, near the Russian border, is well known for its traditional culture and beautiful lake scenery. Of particular note is the traditional Karelian log house, Bomba House, home to many summer events. Nurmes also has several great museums to explore, such as the Ikola Museum and the Kötsi Museum, both detailing the history of Nurmes. The town’s natural attractions include Finland’s fourth largest lake, Lake Pielinen, with the Koli National Park situated nearby.
The wonderful lake environment of Eastern Finland is ever present in Nurmes. The town lies on a narrow peninsula, which is almost completely surrounded by water. Don’t forget to visit the late 19th-century neighbourhood known as Puu-Nurmes, where the protected wooden buildings have been beautifully restored.
Summer is the best time to visit owing to its wonderful summertime festivals, which feature choir performances and traditional Karelian music. Nurmes also hosts the 1950s-style rock and film festival, Drive In & Rock, in summer. Head for both the Bomba and Hyvärilä tourist centres to get your tickets and be part of this great cinema experience.
Bomba House, built in traditional Karelian style, is a replica of a 19th-century log building. While you are there, make sure to visit the nearby Orthodox Chapel of Sergei and Herman of Valaam and the Bomba Hotel and Spa. You might also want to try a fishing trip or water scooter safari on Lake Pielinen.
Nurmes is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a low-cost holiday thanks to the area’s many museums and natural attractions. The outdoor Ikola Museum has a beautifully decorated main building and two 18th-century outbuildings. In summer, you can also see sheep grazing in the museum grounds. The Kötsi Museum nearby is also worth a visit, as it recounts the history of Nurmes from prehistoric times to the early 20th century.
From Nurmes, you can easily visit the Koli National Park and enjoy the views of Lake Pielinen. The train from nearby Joensuu and Kontiomäki stops at Nurmes, and the town is also accessible by boat.
