Juurikkasaari

Juurikkasaari 
Pasi Keinonen and Sirpa Pii-Keinonen

Connecting the old with the new, preserving traditions and being open to new possibilities – that’s what you can find in Juurikkasaari. For weddings, celebrations, conferences, events and much more, the historic former village community house offers exceptional conditions. Idyllically located on the narrow peninsula of the same name next to the Säynätsalo sailing harbor, with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding nature, the house and its services create a vast variety of possibilities.

The heart of the main house is the large hall, including a stage. The hall accommodates up to 100 people and is part of the historical fabric of the building. During renovation, traditional elements like the wooden paneling were preserved, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

In the attached kitchen, all food and baked goods are freshly prepared on-site. Juurikkasaari’s catering is known far beyond Säynätsalo and even supplies events at the union hall (Aalto Sali) designed by Alvar Aalto in the center of Jyväskylä.

From Monday to Thursday (and Friday for Pizza Day), the restaurant is open for a traditional Finnish lunch buffet (lounasbuffet) for all. The meals are served in the glass veranda, offering a stunning view of the lake.

“The house was built over 100 years ago by the island’s residents as a community house,” says Sirpa Pii-Keinonen, who, along with her husband Pasi Keinonen, is responsible for the operation. “There have always been gatherings and parties here.”

Today, the offerings at Juurikkasaari go far beyond just food and celebrations. Guests can use the sauna by the lake and then enjoy a freshly prepared meal in the Kote over an open fire. In the winter, you might have booked a snowshoe hike and end the day at the sauna bar. Or perhaps you arrived on a summer morning aboard the historic river steamer from Jyväskylä to Säynätsalo, spending the day swimming and relaxing on the beautiful summer terrace at Juurikkasaari, in front of the historic dance hall. In the evening, enjoy a concert on the lakeside outdoor stage.

The possibilities are endless, and the Juurikkasaari team will do everything they can to ensure you have a wonderful experience. “We offer personalized service tailored to the customer’s needs. Through collaborations with local providers, transport companies, and hotels in Jyväskylä, we can make (almost) anything possible,” says Tiina, who is responsible for sales and marketing.

From a simple lunch to a full-service event for large groups, the Juurikkasaari team will put in personal effort, dedication, and warmth to meet the diverse needs of the guests. The atmosphere in the house, which has hosted guests for over 100 years (it even used to have a janitor’s apartment), along with the warmth of the hosts, adds to the experience. And all of this is set amidst the stunning landscape of Central Finland and Lake Päijänne. Not to be missed!

IMAGES: Sabine Paulke