metsikkösaarekkeet

Metsikkösaarekkeet is a collection of small islands situated in the western part of Finland’s lake system, most commonly in the vicinity of the Savonlinna region. The name derives from the Finnish word “metsikkö,” referring to a type of edible mushroom, and “saarekkeet,” meaning islets, reflecting the area's rich fungal diversity and the small size of the islands.

Geographically, the Metsikkösaarekkeet lie within the shallow waters of Lake Päijänne, surrounded by pine‑wooded shorelines and typical boreal wetlands. The islands are mostly forested, featuring a mix of spruce, pine, and birch, and are known for their dense undergrowth that supports large populations of fungi, small mammals, and a variety of bird species. The relative isolation of the islands has helped preserve several rare plant communities that are of interest to botanists and naturalists.

Historically, the area has been used for traditional Finnish summer cottages (kylä) and seasonal fishing. In the mid‑20th century, the local community established a simple infrastructure of footbridges and marked walking paths to encourage recreational use while minimizing ecological disturbance. The Metsikkösaarekkeet became a recognized spot for mushroom foraging, and it is a common destination for weekend outings by residents of nearby cities.

For conservation, the islands fall under the protection guidelines set by the Finnish Ministry of the Environment. Efforts focus on monitoring the populations of sensitive species such as the white‑crowned crane (Ardea alba) and the European beaver (Castor fiber), as well as safeguarding the fungal habitats that are emblematic of Finland’s forest ecosystems. Visitors are encouraged to follow “leave no trace” principles and to respect the seasonal restrictions that limit access to certain parts of the islands during breeding and nesting periods.