Lake Pielinen is located in eastern Finland in the Karelia region and is a popular destination for nature lovers and fishermen. It is the fourth largest lake in Finland and surrounded by majestic hills and dark pine forests it is the perfect place for a relaxing vacation. Canoeing, swimming, sport fishing and boating in summer and ice fishing and snow sports at the adjacent ski resort in winter are among the most popular activities here, and Koli Mountain in the adjacent Koli National Park offers incredible views of the dark waters of Pielinen.

Pielinen was formed by land uplift after the last ice age. Today, the fourth largest lake in Finland has an area of 894.21 km2 and a coastline length of 1,700 km. The length of the lake is 120km, the width varies from 1km to 40km and at the deepest point the lake is 60m deep. The Pielinen is fed by the rivers Haapajarvi-Valtimojarvi, Saramojoki, Viekinjoki, Lieksanjoki and Juvanjoki. The water then flows through the Pielis River into Lake Saimaa. The dark color of the water, characteristic of Finland, comes from the microorganisms living in it. This makes the Pielinen one of the most beautiful lakes in Finland.

On the west coast is Koli National Park, which is known for beautiful landscapes. In summer there are breathtaking hiking trails, the possibility to rent boats or canoes, a white water rafting center and in winter especially snow sports in the ski resort are popular. Koli Mountain, at 374m above sea level, offers the perfect vantage point to admire the magical lake landscape from above.

There are over 2,000 islands in Pielinen, which vary greatly in size. The largest and with a height of 225m the highest in Finland, is the island of Paalasmaa. Here stands a small watchtower and the remains of old houses, which remind of the past history.