Imatra

Understand

350px|thumbnail|Imatra rapids and the power plant lit up by night

Imatra's rise to prominence can be traced back to the late 19th century when it attracted Russian aristocrats and wealthy visitors who were drawn to its stunning natural beauty. One of the main attractions for these visitors was the Imatrankoski Rapids, which were considered one of the most impressive natural wonders in the region. To accommodate the influx of tourists, the town built several hotels and other amenities, including the Imatran Valtionhotelli, which was completed in 1903 and quickly became one of the most famous hotels in Finland. The hotel's beautiful architecture and breathtaking views of the rapids made it a popular destination for famous guests like Russian Tsar Nicholas II and Finnish President Urho Kekkonen.

However, in the early 20th century, Finland gained independence from Russia, and the flow of Russian tourists to Imatra decreased, leading to a decline in the town's fortunes. Nevertheless, Imatra continued to be a popular destination for domestic tourists and grew and developed in the years that followed.

Today, Imatra is well-known for the Imatrankoski Rapids, which are a series of rapids on the Vuoksi River that flow through the town. The rapids attract both tourists and locals, and the area features several viewing platforms and walking trails. However, a hydroelectric dam was built and, since 1929, the rapids flow freely only at regular shows and on special occasions.

Apart from…

Get around

The centre can be covered by foot or bike. The other alternatives are car and taxi.

Buy

You can find all sorts of small shops in the (along and next to Koskenparras street). If you prefer shopping malls, head to the , where you can find Rajamarket, Lidl, Citymarket and a new (as of December, 2018) Prisma.

Eat

There is a list of lunch offers for each day.

Go next

Lappeenranta – Imatra's bigger cousin with a fortress and better shopping. Punkaharju – The ridge bisecting Lake Saimaa is one of the most famous Finnish landscapes. Savonlinna – A medieval castle, an opera festival and freshly fried fish. Russia – If you have a valid visa (or if you don't need one), Svetogorsk is close by.