Imatrankoski is a stunning Finnish rapids located in the town of Imatra, Finland. Imatrankoski is both Finland’s largest rapids and the oldest tourist attraction, which has been admired since the 18th century.

In 1772, even the Russian Empress Catherine II and her entourage came to marvel at the power of the rapids and in the 19th century the Russians carved their names on the rocks of Imatrankoski. There were a lot of rapids tourists in the past and the number increased even more thanks to the castle-like Valtionhotelli, which was completed in 1903. The castle hotel was built in place of two burned wooden hotels, and it was able to meet the needs of more demanding tourists better.

In 1842, Finland’s oldest nature reserve, Kruununpuisto, was established around the rapids, which hides in addition to rock carvings: lookout pavilions, giant potholes and various monuments. Kruunupuisto is worth walking around admiring all of this.

The first hydroelectric power plant in Imatrankoski was completed in 1930, but after the sixth machine was completed in 1939, water has been run in the rapids only for demonstration purposes and in disturbance and maintenance situations. Imatrankoski power plant is Finland’s largest hydroelectric power plant.

Rapids shows, where you can admire the flowing water, are mainly held in June-July-August from Wednesday to Sunday at 18:00. That is when you really should be in here! (: