Hirvisaari Canoe Route, Lappeenranta

When canoeing around Hirvisaari Island in the anti-clockwise direction, first bypass the Kaukas millsite. (The route is busy with motor vessels.) After Luukkaansalmi Bridge, you can visit the mouth of Saimaa Canal, from where you continue along the lake shore – and the boat route – to the east. After Hirvisaari Island, continue to Sudensalmi Strait on the northern side of Tuosansaari Island, and return along the strait towards Lappeenranta.  You can take your first break on Murheistenranta Beach, where you must land on the edges of the beach, not disturbing the swimmers. You can also take a break on unoccupied shores, under the everyman’s rights, without leaving a trace. However, you are not allowed to go close to summer cottages, even though you could not see anyone. During the final stretch, there are public rest spots on the islands of Mikonsaari and Karhusaari. Both of them have a jetty and a campfire site.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR SAFETY! Lappeenranta Harbour is very busy with boats and cruisers. Cargo ships operate along a deep-water route from Saimaa Canal to mills that are located by Lake Saimaa. Canoeists must give way to other vessels and stay away from the ship routes, keeping close to the shores. Watch out for the waves from large vessels!