Puumala

Puumala is a municipality in Finland, located in the Southern Savonia region in the eastern part of the country. It is one of the rural municipalities that surround Lake Saimaa, the largest lake in Finland. The municipality is primarily composed of dispersed villages and forested areas.

Geography and notable sites: It lies within the Saimaa lake system and encompasses parts of the Puumalanjoki river and the Puumala Gorge, a striking natural formation known for its steep walls and basalt outcrops. The area features lakes, wetlands, and forests that support outdoor recreation such as boating, hiking, and berry picking.

Economy and demographics: The local economy is traditionally based on forestry, small-scale manufacturing, and services, with tourism playing a growing role due to its natural attractions. Puumala has a small, rural population, with residents concentrated in villages around the coast of the Saimaa waters.

Administration and culture: As a Finnish municipality, Puumala is governed by a municipal council and provides local services to residents. The culture is typical of rural Eastern Finland, with seasonal tourism, summer cottages, and local events.