Kouvola Museum
Located in the city of Kouvola, this museum showcases the history and culture of the Kymenlaakso region. It features exhibits on local industry, art, and traditions, and has a collection of over 100,000 objects.
Repovesi National Park
Located in the southern part of Kymenlaakso, Repovesi National Park is known for its stunning landscapes featuring deep gorges, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, canoeing, and rock climbing in the park.

Kymenlaakso

WELCOME TO Kymenlaakso

Region Overview

Main city

Kotka

AREA

5,191.15 km2

POPULATION

179,384

Main language

Finnish

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the province's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Repovesi National Park

Repovesi National Park is a popular destination in Kymenlaakso, Finland, known for its rugged terrain, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning views. The park offers a wide range of hiking trails for visitors of all skill levels, as well as opportunities for camping, canoeing, fishing, and rock climbing. Its unique natural features, including the steep cliffs and pristine forests, make it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can also take part in guided tours and learn about the park's rich history, which dates back to the 17th century when it was used as a logging area. With its breathtaking scenery and diverse range of activities, Repovesi National Park is a must-see attraction in Kymenlaakso.

Kotka Maritime Museum

The Kotka Maritime Museum, located in the city of Kotka in the Kymenlaakso region of Finland, showcases the region's rich maritime history. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including old ship models, paintings, photographs, and shipbuilding tools. One of the main attractions is the museum's icebreaker, Tarmo, which was built in 1907 and is the world's oldest icebreaker still in its original condition. The museum also offers guided tours, workshops, and activities for visitors of all ages. With its unique collection and interactive exhibits, the Kotka Maritime Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in maritime history and culture.

Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge

Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge is a historical museum in Kotka, Finland, that once served as a summer residence for the Russian Emperor Alexander III. The lodge is located on the banks of the Kymijoki River and is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Visitors can explore the lodge and its gardens, learn about the history of the Romanovs, and enjoy fishing in the river. The lodge is open to visitors from May to September and offers guided tours in multiple languages.

Political

Economy and Government

Kymenlaakso is a region in southeastern Finland, bordering Russia. The region has a mixed economy with a diverse range of industries, including forestry, chemical production, paper and pulp, and manufacturing. The main city, Kouvola, is a hub for logistics and transportation due to its central location and rail connections to Russia. The port city of Kotka is a major center for shipping and has a long history as a trading hub. The region also has a growing tourism sector, with many visitors drawn to the natural beauty of its national parks, lakes, and coastal areas.

Kymenlaakso is governed by a regional council, which is responsible for overseeing the region's economic development, social welfare, and infrastructure. The council is made up of 59 members who are elected every four years by the residents of the region. The council is responsible for making decisions related to the region's budget, land use, transportation, education, and healthcare, among other areas.

Overall, Kymenlaakso has a stable and growing economy, with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation. The region's strategic location and access to transportation networks make it an attractive destination for businesses looking to expand their operations in northern Europe.

History

History and Culture

Kymenlaakso is a region in southeastern Finland with a rich history and culture. The region has been inhabited for thousands of years and has been influenced by the Swedish and Russian empires. The name Kymenlaakso means "Kymi Valley," named after the Kymi River, which flows through the region.

One of the main cultural attractions in Kymenlaakso is the Kotka Maritime Museum, which showcases the region's maritime history and culture. The museum has an extensive collection of ships, boats, and other maritime artifacts, as well as exhibits on fishing, shipbuilding, and navigation.

The region is also home to several historic sites, including the Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, which was built in the late 19th century as a summer residence for the Russian Emperor Alexander III. Today, the lodge is a museum showcasing the life and times of the imperial family.

Kymenlaakso has a rich tradition of art and music, with several festivals and events held throughout the year. The Kymijoki Music Festival, held in the summer, brings together musicians from around the world to perform classical and contemporary music.

In terms of industry, Kymenlaakso has a diverse economy with a focus on manufacturing, forestry, and logistics. The region is home to several major companies, including Stora Enso, UPM-Kymmene, and Cargotec. The local government is responsible for promoting economic development and providing services to residents, including education and healthcare.

HOTELS​

Hotel Seurahuone

located in the city of Kotka, offers comfortable and modern accommodation with a restaurant, bar, and sauna.

Hotel Hamina

located in the city of Hamina, offers cozy rooms and apartments with a restaurant, bar, and sauna.

Scandic Kouvola

located in the city of Kouvola, offers stylish and comfortable accommodation with a restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

RESTAURANTS​

Ravintola Päiväkumpu

This restaurant is known for its traditional Finnish cuisine, with a focus on using local and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant is located in the scenic Päiväkumpu area, near the Kymijoki river.

Ravintola Wanha Fiskari

This seafood restaurant is located in the historic district of Kotka, near the Kotka Maritime Museum. The restaurant offers a range of seafood dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Ravintola Keisarinsatama

This restaurant is located in the beautiful surroundings of the Sapokka water park in Kotka. It offers a variety of dishes inspired by Finnish and international cuisine, and is known for its high-quality ingredients and attentive service.
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