Lappeenranta
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See | January 2011
Lappeenranta
South Karelian Museum
This winning local museum offers visitors an appreciation of the often whimsical way in which the Russian-Finnish border has been redrawn over history. Peruse historical artefacts and old wall maps dating back to the days of the Vikings.
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Hotels | January 2011
Lappeenranta
Sokos Lappee
A few paces from the town harbour, this 209-room hotel features wooden fl oors and minimalist Nordic decor, comfy rooms, fi ve saunas and a 14m pool. Ask for one of the rooms with views out to the water. Free parking for guests is a godsend in the winter months. Doubles from €93.
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Bars | January 2011
Lappeenranta
Birra
Head to this great little bar for cocktails, a shot of Koskenkorva vodka, or choose from the wide range of local draught beers and international bottled brews.
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Restaurants | January 2011
Lappeenranta
Wolkoff
With exposed rafters, creaky fl oorboards and attentive staff, this excellent gourmet restaurant (pictured) features loads of old-time charm and authenticity. Try the blini served with roe (€19), followed by grilled pike-perch with potato ravioli and lemon sauce (€24). Closed Sundays.
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Visit | March 2010
Lappeenranta
THE FORTRESS OF LAPPEENRANTA
Graced with a fascinating history and surrounded by ancient ramparts, this is the oldest part of the city. Most buildings now house handicraft workshops, museums or offices, but a handful are still inhabited by locals.
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Restaurants | March 2010
Lappeenranta
KORPIKEIDAS PARK
Come here, a 15-minute hop from Lappeenranta, to catch your own salmon
Address: 415 VESIKKOLANTIE, JOUTSENO. | Tel: +358 (0)5 413 3334
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Shop | March 2010
Lappeenranta
YLAMAA GEM VILLAGE
Check out Ylämaa Gem Village for jewellery shops, and the Gem Museum for a chance to admire gems, minerals and a collection of fluorescent stones.
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Restaurants | March 2010
Lappeenranta
WOLKOFF RESTAURANT/CAFE
Located in one of the oldest wooden houses in town, Wolkoff enchants with its charming simplicity: the décor features timber floors and crisp, white valances on the windows. The menu seduces with such mouth-watering dishes as grilled pike-perch with parmesan lentils and mushroom mousse, and goose filled with apple and currants with quince sauce.