Matikkala Cottages

We stayed as a big family in a cottage for 8 people, and it suited us really well. It was comfortable and modern, with everything needed for a peaceful break in nature. If you want something more active, there’s a bicycle route and a mountain descent nearby.

The log cabins are good quality and well equipped, right beside the Ruokolahti Freeski ski resort. Skiing is possible, though when we visited there were no cross-country trails nearby, and no lighting for them either. Services around here are quite limited, except when the ski resort is open, and even then there isn't much.

We went in mid-March and there was still plenty of snow, so most of our time was spent skiing at the nearby ski center. Its hours are relatively short, since it seems geared more toward locals. You can rent everything there except cross-country skiing gear. The cottage is cozy and tucked into the forest, with a sauna that felt great after skiing or walking. The kitchen had all the necessary equipment, and cleaning products were provided too. There's Wifi and a TV. It was already heated when we arrived, so we weren't cold at all, and there's a large fireplace you can use if needed. The nearest shop is about 800 m away, but in summer you'd have to go around the lake, nearly 5 km. Lappeenranta airport is about 45 minutes by car, with Ryanair flying twice a week. The owner was very helpful and can arrange a transfer, though renting a car makes sense for longer trips. Very good value for money. I hope we come back 😄

We were unsure about the sauna heater in Sirppi cottage at first, but it ended up giving us one of the best electric sauna sessions ever. The cottage was nice and clean, had good facilities, and the slopes are close by.