Imatra Things to Do Tips by yumyum

No waterfall in winter

In winter you can view the contrast to when everything is under snow. Some of the walks downstream from the dam cannot be used as they are way too slippery and dangerous.

Museum

Opposite the State Hotel you find a museum. It's about the the army and used to be an Army barrack.

The State Hotel

Valtionhotelli or the State Hotel was built by the Finnish senate from 1901-1903 after previous hotels were burnt down because they were wooden. The hotel designed by Usko Nystroem is one of the best examples of the turn of the century architecture.

Directions: right by the road and the waterfall

Power stations

There are several power stations in Imatra which use water power. It's quite amazing watching the fast running water.

On the 3rd picture is the "runner wheel" of a turbine that was in use from 1.4.1936 until 5.11.1989. You can see this wheel just by the power station with explanations in various languages.

Go for a walk

along the river. There are some nice paths. It's really the nature that is the main attraction in Imatra.

Virgin maiden

This statue is nicely set with a miniature waterfall. It cannot be missed on your walk around the watery aera.

Opening of the water gates

This is what is looks a few minutes after 7pm. They let music play with the spectacle and it's impressive to see how the water comes rushing down and finds its way. After 30 minutes they close the gates again.

The main attraction is the artificial waterfall

If you come in summer before 7 pm this is what it looks like and everybody waits around the site or on the bridge for action.

Directions: just outside the center by the dam