Experience the Highlights of Lake Nature: A Combined Tour of Kolovesi and Linnansaari National Parks

Discover two of Saimaa’s most stunning national parks—Kolovesi and Linnansaari—on one unforgettable tour. This two-park route has been one of our most popular paddling adventures since 1997. The route runs almost entirely through the breeding areas of the endangered Saimaa ringed seal, giving you an excellent chance to spot this rare animal in its natural habitat.

The longest version of the route passes through three protected areas: Kolovesi National Park, the Joutenvesi Nature Reserve, and Linnansaari National Park. This week-long (or longer) journey requires good planning and gear suitable for varying weather conditions. Most nights are spent camping, though a few nights can be spent in a hotel or eco-hostel.

This route is favored by experienced sea kayakers, and you are in charge of planning each day’s itinerary and the total length of the trip.

Trip Duration

Approx. 1 week for experienced paddlers, or 10–14 days for a more relaxed pace. Total distance approx. 130 km.

Difficulty Level

For experienced paddlers, 130 km in a week is not considered demanding. Beginners should plan for more time. Prior experience with multi-day paddling trips is required. The large open waters of Linnansaari can be challenging in windy conditions—route planning should consider sheltered passages.

Guidance

Self-guided. Requires solid navigation skills.

Starting and Ending Point

Oravi Harbour or Kirkkoranta in Kolovesi.

Gear Requirements

Participants must bring appropriate outdoor clothing and camping gear. A camping stove is essential, as open fires are not allowed in Joutenvesi. We also recommend using a compass when navigating the archipelagos of Joutenvesi and Linnansaari.