Saaristo Trail

Cycling route that runs through the Oravisalo and Varpasalo island area. The maximum length of the route is 50 km. Shorter routes are also possible.

Saaristo Trail is part of the Karelianpolut collection of routes. The route runs through the Oravisalo and Varpasalo areas along asphalt, gravel and forest roads that are suitable for normal bicycles. The beautiful lake and countryside vistas and rest stops of the Saimaa archipelago are something to experience for yourself.

The islands of northern Saimaa provide the opportunity to enjoy trekking, cycling, nature and art all in one go. The rest stops created by artist Hannes Aleksi Hyvönen are works of art in themselves. The pieces ‘Sotka, sorea lintu’ (Pochard, the elegant bird) and ‘Pesä’ (Nest) are part of Hyvönen’s ‘Quelavala – Kalevala’ series of works.

At times, Saaristo Trail merges with the nature trails in the area, providing more optional routes. The nature trails are not maintained for mountain biking. The route merges with both the Salpapolku trail and Varpasalo hiking trail, which are linked to the Apajalahti nature trail.

Route map

 

Presentation video on the Karelianpolut trails in Rääkkylä

Address

Kivisalmi, Rääkkylä

Contact information

Saaristo Trail is about 50 km long, depending on the path you choose. The route is marked with red signposts, ‘Saaristo Trail’ stones and map plaques.

Starting points and parking areas:
1. Kivisalmi
Oravisalontie 684, 82310 Oravisalo

2. Ihalansalmi bridge
Varpasalontie, 82310 Oravisalo

3. Koitontalo
Oravisalontie 1290a, 82310 Oravisalo

4. Arvinsalmi ferry
Oravisalontie 1610, 82310 Oravisalo

Services: Parking, privy, water

© 2023 Kitee, Rääkkylä, Tohmajärvi