Kymijoki Rapids Cycle Route, Kotka

Certainly one of the finest urban cycling routes in the country is the Kymijoki rapids cycle route, which circles the banks of the Kymijoki River. Along the way, you can explore six free-flowing waterfalls, whose banks still have a wealth of history from different eras. The most notable attraction along the route is the Langinkoski Imperial Fishing Lodge, located on the banks of the rapids of the same name. The fishing lodge was built at the request of the Russian Emperor Alexander II and served as a holiday resort for the imperial family for several summers in the late 19th century. Today the site is a museum and a protected area run by the Metsähallitus, Forest administration.

Another important historical site is Kyminlinna Fortress, the construction of which began in 1790 by order of Katariina the Great. You cannot yet visit the inside of the fortress, but you can explore this magnificent fortress by walking around the ramparts outside.

Kotka is the park capital of Finland and one of these magnificent parks is located on the banks of Siikakoski. Completed in 2020, Koskipuisto offers a wide range of things to see and do. The park's first-class outdoor trails run through the arboretum and protected areas. On a hot summer's day, you can refresh yourself with a bike ride or a dip in the river. The two swimming areas in the park are a good place to do this. There is also a swimming area at Tattarinkoski, run by the locals.

And although this is an urban cycling route, part of it runs through an idyllic rural village.