Suomutunturi and Kemijärvi region
The area around Suomutunturi and Kemijärvi offers many opportunities for easy and beautiful nature walks, surrounded by waters and fells. The “midnight sun” is one of the most unforgettable experiences in Lapland during the summer, and the dance of the Northern Lights in the winter. Suomutunturi is an hour’s drive from the Pyhä-Luosto-Salla-Ruka region, so all destinations are easily accessible, and you can make various day trips. Suomutunturi is situated on the Kemijärvi water system. Kemijärvi is a fish-rich lake, and fishing competitions are also organized during the summer. Suomutunturi still has a ferry, which is a pleasant experience for the whole family. In winter, an ice road is created, allowing travel across the lake to Kemijärvi.
SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING
Suomutunturi offers a 75-kilometer network of ski tracks, catering to enthusiasts of all levels. 17 km of the tracks are lighted. The trails are diverse, well-maintained, and go over the fells. Along the tracks, there are resting spots where you can enjoy snacks in the midst of nature.
Suomutunturi Ski Resort has 10 slopes. This family-friendly resort offers slopes for even the youngest members. The slopes are sheltered by trees, so it’s rare that the slopes are closed. The slopes are suitable for skiers of all levels, and the off-piste areas of Suomutunturi are highly popular.
HIKING, TREKKING, AND BIRD WATCHING
There is a hiking route to the summit of Suomutunturi, starting from Hotel Suomutunturi or from East Suomutunturi.
There are several hiking routes in the area. At the end of Vehontie, there is a birdwatching tower by the lake where you can observe birds. Birds such as the Siberian jay, the Lapland tit, the Lapland owl, and many others frequent the area. From the tower, you might also spot cranes and whooper swans. On the Suomu River, you can see species like the common goldeneye, the mallard, and the northern shoveler. Kotavaara’s observation tower is a great spot for hiking; you can warm up by the campfire and then climb the observation tower. Suomutunturi is known for its many outdoor fire spots and shelters along the hiking trails, where you can enjoy snacks.
An important rule when moving in nature: Do not leave any trash behind, take everything with you that you brought.
Let’s keep nature clean.
Nationall Parks nearby
SNOWMOBILING
You will find many snowmobile routes around Suomutunturi. You can also travel to destinations like Pyhä, Salla, Kemijärvi, Posio, and Ruka on a snowmobile. In winter, there’s also a snowmobile route to Joutsijärvi. Kemijärvi has Finland’s only snowmobile museum. It’s worth visiting to learn about the history of snowmobiling and see old snowmobiles.
MOUNTAIN BIKING
There are many forest roads around Suomutunturi, which are also suitable for cycling.
SHOPPING
We don’t want to drive past the village shop, do we? When each of us leaves a euro or two at the small village shop, they stay alive and continue to serve us in the future. The nearest shop is Joutsijärvi village shop, where you can find everything necessary. Larger shops can be found in Kemijärvi.
Tuusniemi area
Tuusniemi is a small village in Savonia with shops, flea markets, a pharmacy, a bank, and a gas station. I recommend having coffee and a walk by the harbor. The harbor has a beautiful sandy beach, which is also suitable for children.
SHOPPING, SIGHTS, AND ACTIVITIES
Rotkolaakso is a popular destination for families.
Tuusniemi ja Kaavi (fi)
Tuusniemi ja Kaavi (en)
A hiking route to Luostari starts near our cabin. It’s a diverse hiking trail to Lintula Monastery and Valamo Monastery.
For those interested in hiking or canoeing, Kolovesi National Park offers an excellent setting to explore the majestic landscapes of Savonia. Kolovesi National Park is about 70 km from our cabin.
On Luostarintie, there’s a small place called Palokki. Palokki’s salmon ponds are famous among anglers. While there, it’s worth having coffee at Ronttopuisto.
If you’re arriving by boat to Juojärvi, I recommend visiting the Varistaipale Canal.
Also check out events in Varistaipale village.
Ohtaan salmi bridges lead to places like Kaavi.
Karvionkoski is a place worth seeing.
Fishing times
Waterways
Silmäsuo is a safe place to visit, along the boardwalks.
Read more about Tuusniemi sights from here.
If you need a change of pace and are looking for something lively, check out the offerings of HojoHojo in Tuusniemi.
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For a day trip, Juankoski is nearby, and you should explore the old mill area and the life of Juice Leskinen, who was from Juankoski. Juice was a renowned Finnish singer, songwriter, and poet, known for his influential contributions to Finnish rock music and his distinctive, often poetic lyrics.
Tuusniemi is well located for trips to Kuopio, Joensuu, Juankoski, Kaavi, Varkaus, Karvio, and Heinävesi. In Varkaus, I recommend visiting the Mechanical Music Museum.
Kuopio is famous for its market and kalakukko (sort of a fish pie).
Check out Joensuu’s current events.