Visitors to Kontiolahti Biathlon World Cup call for improved transport links in Eastern Finland

Visitors to the Kontiolahti Biathlon World Cup find Eastern Finland an appealing travel destination, yet they believe improvements to transport links are necessary. Efforts are underway to make the region more attractive, with the government allocating three million euros for tourism development in Eastern Finland.

At the biathlon stadium, a large American flag signals the presence of Bryant Tolles, who expresses his fondness for Eastern Finland after recently buying a house in Imatra. His positive sentiments are shared by many other foreign attendees who are eager to share their thoughts on how to enhance tourism in the area. The initiative aligns with the S Group’s plans to elevate Eastern Finland’s status alongside Lapland as a prime destination.

However, some visitors find the travel connections in the region lacking. German tourist Martin Reeh criticizes the low speed limits, suggesting that raising them would improve the driving experience. Similarly, French exchange students Tina Corne and Elisa Pinston lament the limited public transport options, hoping for more frequent train and bus services.

Despite the challenges, visitors like Corne and Pinston see the potential of Eastern Finland for year-round tourism, highlighting the beauty of August sunsets and the charm of first snowfalls. Reeh is particularly keen on summer activities like mountain biking and hiking.

Tolles emphasizes winter sports, planning to spend several months each year in Imatra. He also notes an interest in the area’s military history and its proximity to Russia, which intrigues many Americans who grew up with Cold War-era fears.

Whether in summer or winter, foreign tourists recognize the charm of Eastern Finland, which holds promise as a multifaceted destination.