The nature experiences on water and land are provided by nature guide, kayaking instructor, and Saimaa Geopark geo-guide Asta Aalto.

Wild food and seasonal, locally sourced food services are an essential part of our offerings. They are managed by Asta’s spouse, D.O Saimaa chef and Uhkuan partner Ilkka Arvola. Ilkka often also catches fish for Uhkuan’s table and enjoys various carpentry tasks in addition to being in the kitchen.

“We have the best raw materials in the world for seasonally prepared meals here in Saimaa.” I won’t compromise on those. ” – Ilkka

Uhkuan’s story began with a kind of awakening to nature. Nature, especially the unique lake nature of Saimaa, began to attract her more and more strongly amidst the busy work life. Eventually, nature called so strongly that Asta went to study environmental science, leaving her old job in sales behind.

“From nature, I found clarity in my life and thoughts, as well as the strength to start living even more deeply according to my values” – Asta

The pieces began to slowly fall into place: the idea of nature-friendly eco-accommodation floating on the waves of Saimaa was born, a like-minded life partner was found, and eventually, a shared home by the shores of Saimaa. Uhkua was born, and gradually, moving in nature and producing nature experiences also became a profession. Nature entrepreneurship is much more to us than just work – it is a way of life.

At Uhkuas, things are done in a relaxed and joyful manner, but the well-being of nature is taken seriously. We are grateful for the opportunity to meet people and offer them a small piece of the Saimaa that is important and dear to us.

“We genuinely want to impact the well-being and preservation of nature by making responsible choices.” That’s why responsibility is strongly present at Uhku and is also visible in all our activities. At its best, the peace experienced in nature and the understanding of its diversity can also change the way we live and look around us.” – Asta and Ilkka

The roots and history of the area are important to both of us, and we want to share the story of the area with our visitors as well. Small nuggets of information about the area and its history help to reveal life here on Lake Saimaa to the traveller on a whole different level. Did you know, for example, that the second oldest barley grain in Finland was found nearby? Or that the deepest point of Lake Saimaa is just around the corner and the most important catch fish, the vendace, lives in drinkable water? It is precisely these small things that make up Saimaa.

Speaking up for local food, making history visible, enjoying the peace of nature, and living sustainably are part of our everyday life and close to our hearts.

We warmly welcome you to experience Saimaa our way!

Asta & Ilkka