Imatrankoski rapids

Imatrankoski rapids

Located in Imatra, South Karelia region. It was born about 6,000 years ago when the Saimaa water masses broke through Salpausselkä. Numerous hiidenkirnus tells about history of the water strength.

• Imatrankoski is Finland’s oldest tourist attraction. A national landscape has been admired since the 18th century. In 1772, even Empress Catherine II of Russia and her entourage marveled at the power of the water. In the late 19th century, it was a major attraction throughout Europe.
• The number of tourists who came to see the landscape increased further thanks to the castle-like Valtionhotelli, that was completed in 1903. The stone hotel was built in place of two burnt wooden hotels and was able to better meet the needs of demanding tourists.
• Today the Imatrankoski rapids are often just a dry riverbed. However during the summer months, the dam is opened a few times a day, unleashing the furious rapids once again to the delight of onlookers. It continue to draw huge crowds of visitors each year.
• The duration of a single rapids display is about 16 minutes. The best viewing places are the bridge over the rapids, Koskipuisto beach area, the observation deck of the Valtionhotelli and the lower pavilion.

How to get there?

• Get Direction button on this page will guide you to Imatrankoski rapids using google maps.
• The nearest train station is Imatra Railway Station.

You can leave your photos and review at the bottom of this page! Enjoy your visit!