The unique nature of North Karelia offers tourists a wide diversity of places to visit. The region’s four national parks, Koli, Kolovesi, Patvinsuo and Petkeljärvi, reveal the beauty of Karelian nature. Hikers particularly treasure the Ruunaa hiking area, located in Lieksa, renowned as one of the most important hiking destinations of North Karelia.
Koli National Park
Koli Did you know that the peak of Ukko-Koli is 354 metres above sea level and it is the highest place in Southern and Central Finland, the bed rock of the national park is over 2 billion years old and there is a wilderness church at the top of Akka-Koli?
Koli National Park
Petkeljärvi National Park
Petkeljärvi is Finland’s smallest national park. In Petkeljärvi, you can enjoy of the peace of the wilderness nature at the same time with reachas you immerse yourself in history and cultural heritage.
Petkeljärvi National Park
Patvinsuo National Park
An abundance of sandy beaches of in Patvinsuo national park make this a sunbather’s paradise. Near the national park, you can safely watch wildlife and animals, such as wolverines and bears, from the viewing cabins.
Patvinsuo National Park
Kolovesi National Park
Kolovesi national park is a paddler’s paradise, where you may just might meet encounter one of the famed Saimaa ringed seals.
Ruunaa area
Outdoor enthusiasts relish Ruunaa area’s well-balanced mix of great opportunities for hiking, fishing, and rafting. In total, there are around 50 kilometres of marked hiking trails and various white waters to admire from the shore or the seat of a white-water raft.
Ruunaa Hiking AreaFind out more about the national parks
To find out more about the national parks, their services and trails go to at nationalparks.fi.
Nationalparks.fi