Rowing Expedition Around Partalansaari – An Unforgettable Experience Amidst the
Beauty of Lake Saimaa
The rowing expedition around Partalansaari offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the
stunning scenery of Lake Saimaa. This approximately 70-kilometer rowing route is
designed for a relaxed journey, where participants can enjoy the landscapes, picnic
snacks, and the easygoing spirit of a leisurely row.
The adventure begins at the rowing stadium, with the first strokes guiding rowers through
the picturesque waterways of Hakovirta and Linnanvirta. Rowers immediately enter a relaxed, easy-going Savonian rowing atmosphere.
As the route reaches the narrow channel of Varmanvirta and leads into Tuuravuorenlahti,
it’s time for the first break. Could picnic snacks possibly taste any better?
An Unforgettable Night in the Heart of Saimaa
When evening falls, the journey pauses at Varviranta, where the breathtaking views soothe the soul, and inviting saunas await. Varvi refers to an old dockyard, and from this very shore, tar steamers once embarked on their journeys.
The highlight of the rowing day is a relaxing sauna session in Varviranta’s large, magnificent saunas. Here, participants can share stories from the day’s rowing, enjoy a hearty meal in the main building, and bask in the tranquility of Saimaa. As the evening winds down, it’s time to retreat to personal tents for the night.
The Rowing Expedition Combines Adventure and a Sense of Accomplishment
The following morning, the expedition continues toward Lepistönselkä, the most famously challenging part of the route. Fortunately, there’s a chance to unwind at the stunning Karttu rest stop in the middle of the open water. Here, rowers can also take a refreshing dip in Lake Saimaa. After this energizing break, even the remainder of Lepistönselkä doesn’t feel as daunting.
Once Karttu is left behind, the final kilometers toward Hakovirta are rowed with a calm but confident rhythm. The mood is one of gratitude, though tinged with a bit of wistfulness—is it over already? Yet, a wealth of cherished memories has been gathered along the way!
The rowing expedition around Partalansaari is both challenging and immensely rewarding. It’s an experience that brings together the beauty of Lake Saimaa, a sense of community, and the joy of rowing. This is the very essence of rowing at its finest!
