2009 sees a much-anticipated return to the Finnish Lakes for opera in the medieval Olavinlinna Castle, a truly magical setting. And the tranquil atmosphere makes for a blissfully peaceful summer holiday. This year, the Savonlinna Opera Festival presents two Puccini masterpieces, Turandot and a new staging of Madama Butterfly, as well as its acclaimed production of Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor, with Cuban-American soprano Eglise Gutiérrez in the title role.


Wed 22 Jul Afternoon arrival in Savonlinna and transfer to the summer Hotel Tott, in the centre of Savonlinna, within a few minutes walk of the castle and the quayside. Welcome drink in the hotel.

Thu 23 Jul Join your guide for a morning tour of Savonlinna, including a tour of Olavinlinna Castle. We are taken backstage, for an insight into the intricacies of staging an opera in a medieval castle. Afternoon at leisure. Evening performance at Olavinlinna Castle.

Fri 24 Jul Today we take an lake cruise to Puumala. The shoreline and archipelago of Saimaa is known for its natural beauty, with over 1000 islands. After a buffet lunch on board, return to Savonlinna by coach. Evening performance at Olavinlinna Castle.

Sat 25 Jul Morning departure by steamer for Punkaharju, one of Finland's best known beauty spots. After lunch, we visit the Retretti Art Centre, one of the largest in the Nordic countries, and home to its own concert hall, exhibition space and galleries. Evening performance at Olavinlinna Castle.

Sun 26 Jul Morning at leisure. Transfer to Savonlinna airport for your homeward journey.

Flights: Finnair

Flight schedules are subject to alteration. Flights from other UK airports can be arranged on request.