Savonlinna, Finland
Here is a statue at Lusto, the National Forest Museum of Finland. It is located in middle Finland in an area called Punkaharju. There road through the area is special as it winds through the forest with great views of the surrounding lakes.
Olavinlinna Castle (St. Olaf's Castle.) I received a guided tour of the castle. I was the only person who showed up for a tour. In the summer tourguides handle groups of over thirty, but in the fall, it was just me. Great service. The castle was held both by the Swedes and the Russians. The Russians made the addition at the top of the tower.
Inside the outer castle wall. This extension was build to allow access to fresh water from the river.
the castle was located on an island in a junction in the river. This location was chosen because the river runs fast enough that it does not freeze in the winter. This way attackers could not depend on walking across ice during a winter attack.
October in Middle Finland.
Fall is definately a good time to tour the countryside and view the lovely colors of the
forest.
Colorful forest background.
View from the castle walls.
A view of the castle from across the river.
A calm lake perfect for boating.