The extensive Pielinen surrounding Koli is a versatile source of summer fun, which you can capture on your own rowing, kayaking or Stand Up Paddle Boards trip, or on a guided water trip. The Ruunaa rapids and the Jongunjoki or Patvinsuo river routes closer to the eastern border are the top destinations for river and rapids paddling enthusiasts.
Rental equipment
At Koli, canoes, kayaks and SUP boards are rented by Polar Adventures at Koli harbour, and kayaks, SUPs, boats (also with motors) by VisitKoli in Merilänranta, Koli Camping Merilänranta.
The Hiekkasaaret rising from Pielinen and the narrow archipelago stretching south from it are an attractive destination in calm weather. The islands have more campgrounds and a lovely white sand beach for beach life.
Please note that the regulations of the Koli National Park prohibit movement on islets smaller than one hectare from 15 May to 17 July for nesting peace of waterfowl. You can find more information on Koli’s boat and canoeing destinations and trails at nationalparks.fi.
The extensive Pielinen is a versatile source of summer fun that can be captured by rowing, canoeing or racing trip on your own, or on a guided trip. The Ruunaa white waters and the Jongunjoki or Patvinsuo river routes closer to the eastern border are the top destinations for tours on the river and rapids shooting.
Kirkkoveneretket Koli-Vuonislahti
You can book a boat transportation for your group using large wooden boats (known as ‘koskivene’) between Vuonislahti village and Koli harbor (approximately 10 km/50 minutes). You can also travel by boat to Paateri (14 km), where you’ll find a magnificent studio of the sculptor and artist Eva Ryynänen, one of the absolute gems of the area. Boat trips are conducted using safe wooden boats equipped with raincoats and safety gear. The driver is a licensed boat captain.
During the excursion, it’s possible to arrange for snacks or lunch. In case of sudden storms or other obstacles, the return trip will be arranged by taxi/bus.
For availability and further information, please inquire at: .
Kayaking with guide
Kayaking
Polar Adventures and Retkipaikka organises kayaking trips on Lake Pielinen and other local waters. On request, kayaks and customers can be transported to their desired location. Kayaks are stable Sit-On-Top kayaks, which are well suitable for beginners, too. At the beginning of the trip, your kayaking instructor explains how to manoeuvre the kayak and gives safety instructions.
Guided tours and rental equipment for the waters
The refueling points will serve boaters in Koli, Lieksa and the harbour of Bomba in Nurmes
Boat refueling station Lieksa 24h card machine, Braheantie 14, 81700 LIEKSA (Harbour of Lieksa)
Fuel grades: 98E5 and Diesel. www.lieksa.fi
Boat refueling station Koli 24h card machine, Rantatie 12, 83960 KOLI (Koli fishing harbour)
Fuel grades: 98E5 and Diesel. www.lieksa.fi
Boat refueling station Nurmes 24h card machine, Tuulentie 10, 75500 NURMES (Port of Bomba)
Fuel grades: 98E5 and Diesel. www.nurmes.fi