Rautavaara

The northernmost municipality of the Kuopio Region is playfully called “Almost Lapland”, thanks to its majestic hilly wilderness. It’s the perfect destination for those who crave peace in a rugged environment. The Tiilikanjärvi National Park is the ideal retreat from the daily grind, perfect for day and overnight hikes. Here you’ll find old growth pines, clear waters and duckboard trails. Lakes, rivers and ponds full of fish invite you to revitalise yourself. Marshes and spruce swamps are a treasure trove for cloudberry pickers. In the winter, Rautavaara is a paradise for snowmobile enthusiasts: 250 km of maintained routes link Kuopio, Tahko, Vuokatti, Kaavi and Nurmes. The Metsäkartano Nature Tourist Centre offers year-round lodging and plenty of unusual things to do, such as football in a marsh, ice-hole swimming, rope bridges and curling matches.

Attractions: Metsäkartano Nature Tourist Centre, Tiilikka National Park, Kipari Hill, Beautiful sandy beaches and scenery in Älänne, Pumpulikirkko Nature Reserve, Fishing on the Keyrittyjoki and Tiilikkajoki rivers, Excellent terrain for hiking, camping, picking berries and mushrooms