Imatra
Imatra specs
- Population of 24 919
- Total area is 191,3 km²
- Land 155,0 km² and water 36,3 km²
- Located on the southern shore of Lake Saimaa, Finland’s largest lake, which features over 14,000 km of shoreline and more than 13,000 islands.
- An extensive network of trails and outdoor routes stretches for hundreds of kilometers along the scenic landscapes of Saimaa and the Vuoksi River.
- More than 4,000 beds available within a 5 km radius.
About Imatra
Imatra is a small city with big possibilities. It has carved its place on the map as a top destination for endurance sports and motorsport events. Imatra is known for seamlessly blending its Sport Resort facilities with tourism services. Whether you are searching for the next location to arrange your training camp or a venue for a sport event or your music festival, Imatra has got you covered.
What makes Imatra truly unique is its setting: the Vuoksi River flowing through the city, the Saimaa Lake, and the surrounding pristine nature. Imatra is part of the Saimaa UNESCO Global Geopark, taking visitors on an adventure into the origin story of the pure lake landscape. Together, these create an exceptional backdrop for diverse outdoor events, providing participants and spectators with memorable experiences.
The region offers outstanding conditions, especially for junior and master‘s-level championship events across multiple disciplines. The area is also a beloved training camp base for athletes from various sports, offering a wide range of accommodation options, including spa resorts and holiday apartments with all necessary supplementary services.
MORE ABOUT IMATRAEvent Highlights
Discover some of the top events happening in Imatra.
Saimaa Cycle Tour
The biggest cycling event in Finland in stunning Saimaa Lake landscapes. The longest 300km route starts and ends in Imatra’s city center and circles around Lake Saimaa, offering unforgettable experiences for attendees. The event has been organised yearly since 2021, and year 2024 event gathered over 3000 participants, and the growth continues. The aim is to have 10,000 participants by 2028.
Saimaa Cycle TourImatranajo
Legendary motorsport event and part of the International Road Racing Championships (IRRC) series from 2016 onwards, drawing top riders and enthusiastic crowds. Imatra’s first Tourist Trophy (TT) race was held in 1953. The actual Imatranajo was revived after a long break in 1962, when an international race was held on the newly paved circuit. From 1964 to 1982, Imatranajo served as the Finnish Grand Prix in the Motorcycle Road Racing World Championship series.
ImatranajoCross-country Skiing & Biathlon Championships
Annual national and international-level events that gather elite athletes to test their limits. Imatra has established itself over the past decade as a regular host for both FIS and Finnish Championship skiing events, in both winter and summer, as well as IBU regional events. In the winter of 2026 IBU Junior European Championships will be held in Imatra. The cross-country and biathlon competition infrastructure in Imatra is first-class: IBU-certified biathlon stadium, 11 homologated competition tracks and a 3.3 km roller ski track provide a perfect environment for hosting high-level skiing events throughout the year.
Cross-country SkiingAdditional highlights
Saimaa Events Endurance Series
A collection of sport outdoor endurance events that showcase the region’s natural, unique beauty. Triathlon, endurance swimming, running and MTB events all offer unforgettable memories in Imatra’s nature.
Ice Hockey Tournaments
The ice arena is renowned for its high-quality ice, excellent off-ice training opportunities, and ideal conditions for training camps. It has hosted U18 World Championships and multiple U16-U20 IHHF tournaments.
Boat & Jet Ski Competitions on the Vuoksi
Hosting several levels of circuit racing, including European Championships (F2, F4) and both national and international jet ski races yearly.
Sports venues
Imatra Sport Center
A versatile venue hub serving a wide range of sports. From winter sports like cross-country skiing and biathlon with an IBU-B licensed stadium, to summer sports and team events, the center is a go-to destination for competitions and training. Add to that excellent accommodation options, leisure services, and a compact, athlete-friendly area layout – it’s a winning combination for any event organizer.
All these facilities are located within a walking distance from each other, which creates a sports academy like environment, though the location is only some kilometres away from the centre of Imatra.
IRRC Circuit – Jarno Saarinen Track
The legendary Jarno Saarinen Circuit Imatra is located only 600 meters from the town center, on the east side of the river Vuoksi. A renowned track that plays host to major international motorsport events, providing thrills for both riders and fans.
Vuoksi, Saimaa & Surrounding Nature
Imatra’s natural settings elevate any outdoor event. Highlights include the iconic Imatrankoski rapids, where the Saimaa Cycle Tour dramatically kicks off, and the extensive network of trails along the shores of Saimaa, offering unforgettable routes for trail running, cycling, and adventure races. You can also explore the area by boat.
Through its breathtaking sites and distinctive landscapes, the Geopark offers a fresh perspective on the fascinating story of Saimaa’s geological origins. Formed from fractured bedrock, Saimaa originated from the ancient sea more than 1,900 million years ago.
Whether you’re here to compete, train, or cheer, Imatra welcomes you to discover the charm of a host city where nature and sport come together.
MORE ABOUT IMATRA