New adventure routes – experience nature through rowing

Every Sulkava Rowing Route Offers a Unique Nature Experience Amidst Breathtaking Scenery Each of the Sulkava Rowing Event routes takes you through stunning landscapes and diverse natural environments, offering an unforgettable nature experience. Along these routes, you might even spot the endangered Saimaa ringed seal, curiously observing the rowers as they pass by!

These routes invite you to experience the joy of rowing and the authentic charm of the Savo region. Whether you choose a shorter or more challenging route, every stroke will bring you closer to the soul of Saimaa, where nature beckons you to enjoy the moment and push your limits!
There’s no need to row at full tilt on these routes—though you’re welcome to if you wish.

The emphasis is on enjoying the moment, the nature, the beautiful lake scenery, and the joy of movement. For those looking for a competitive edge, timekeeping is also available on these routes.

Choose Your Route From Three Options!

Kervilänvirta 15 km – A Lighthearted Start to Savo Rowing

If you’re new to rowing or uncertain about tackling longer distances, the 15-kilometer Kervilänvirta route is the perfect introduction! This route provides a great opportunity to try rowing in traditional wooden or church boats while immersing yourself in the festive Savo rowing atmosphere.

The starting gun fires at the Sulkava Rowing Stadium, where the excitement is palpable even before the first stroke. The journey begins with the beautiful Alanne landscape before moving on to the flowing waters of Toroppasalmi, where Lake Saimaa reveals its finest features. Soon, the oars find their rhythm, and the boat glides effortlessly across Saimaa’s sparkling waters.

As you reach the tip of Sikoniemi, the course turns east, rounding the buoy at Niittulahti. By this point, smiles are wide—it’s the halfway mark! The return trip along the same route feels relaxed, with your arms now accustomed to the rowing motion.

The Kervilänvirta 15 km route is the perfect mix of stunning lake scenery and a lighthearted rowing vibe. Crossing the finish line leaves you feeling proud—your friends are sure to hear all about your Sulkava rowing adventure! And who knows, you might already be tempted to try a longer route next time.

Welcome to an unforgettable nature experience that’s sure to spark a passion for rowing!

Säviönsaari Circuit 25 km – A Challenge Amid Majestic Beauty

The Säviönsaari circuit offers a longer adventure, showcasing Lake Saimaa’s unique landscapes and the power of its waters. This 25-kilometer route suits rowers of all levels and also serves as the Finnish Championship course for junior small boats. The route begins along the same path as the Kervilänvirta 15 km route. As you row from Kervilänvirta to Säviönvirta, one of the route’s highlights awaits: the magnificent Vekaransalmi Bridge. Finland’s fifth-longest bridge is an impressive sight, especially when viewed from below. It’s hard to focus on rowing with such a breathtaking view—it’s a moment to savor! After passing under the bridge, the route circles Säviönsaari counterclockwise, offering rugged natural beauty from the nearby conservation area. Depending on the wind conditions, this section can also be physically demanding. Towering rock faces, vertical cliffs, and massive glacial boulders line the rower’s path, creating an atmosphere no photograph can fully capture—this is an experience you must see for yourself!

Skill Practice at Pajasalmi Causeway

As you reach the northern part of the island, the scenery changes dramatically. The towering cliffs give way to gentler landscapes, but don’t be fooled—another challenge lies ahead. The narrow Pajasalmi causeway, just eight meters wide, tests your precision rowing skills. With a church boat’s oars spread at seven meters wide, accuracy is key! Gliding under the bridge takes skill, but successfully navigating this challenge is a moment to remember. The causeway also makes a perfect spot for spectators, as cheers and encouragement from the shore provide a motivational boost for the final stretch! After Pajasalmi, the route loops around Säviönsaari, returning through Kervilänvirta and heading back to the rowing stadium. Crossing the finish line, you’ll feel a tremendous sense of accomplishment. This circuit perfectly combines Saimaa’s unique nature, thrilling challenges, and the indescribable joy of pushing your limits. Welcome to row around Säviönsaari—a nature experience like no other!

Vänkäläisensaari Circuit 40 km – A Nature Experience on Open Waters

The Vänkäläisensaari circuit follows the Säviönsaari route but adds an extra challenge by including the Vänkäläisensaari loop, extending the distance to a total of 40 kilometers. This route tests both your rowing skills and mental resilience, as it includes moments where nature’s power is truly felt. Starting at the familiar rowing stadium, the route follows the Säviönsaari circuit before turning toward Vänkäläisensaari. This island also features conservation areas, with low but rocky landscapes giving way to the shimmering surface of open waters.

Rowing around Vänkäläisensaari is an adventure in itself.

The landscapes here highlight Saimaa’s diverse beauty. On this route, determination is key, as the winds over Vänkäläisenselkä and Tuohiselkä can become strong. However, Tuohiselkä offers a pleasant surprise—the Tetriluoto Lighthouse, a charming landmark that inspires rowers to keep going. Spectators will enjoy this route as well, with much of it visible from the Vekaransalmi Bridge and parts of the Pajasalmi Causeway, where rowers pass by closely. The Vänkäläisensaari circuit demands strong arms and a touch of grit, but crossing the finish line brings an indescribable feeling of achievement—this nature experience will remain etched in your memory!

New adventure routes – experience nature through rowing

Kervilänvirta 15 km – A Lighthearted Start to Savo Rowing

Säviönsaari Circuit 25 km – A Challenge Amid Majestic Beauty

Skill Practice at Pajasalmi Causeway

Vänkäläisensaari Circuit 40 km – A Nature Experience on Open Waters

Rowing around Vänkäläisensaari is an adventure in itself.

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Soutuhistoria

Rowing history