Explore the dune areas

Lake Oulujärvi

With a surface area of almost 900 m2, Lake Oulujärvi is known as the sea of Kainuu. Lake Oulujärvi is the fourth largest lake in Finland and is geographically situated almost in the middle of Finland. Its beautiful sea-like scenery features the flat plains of Ostrobothnia, the fells of Kainuu, shining golden beaches and bare rocky islands.

Lake Oulujärvi differs from Finland’s other lakes due to its beautiful stretches of open water. Lake Oulujärvi also boasts a large number of islands. In fact 650 islands have been counted with an area bigger than 100 m2. The lake’s large size means it is home to an abundance of wildlife. You might encounter marine species such as ruddy turnstones, great cormorants, and white-tailed eagles drifting above the water. As well as picturesque views and varied wildlife, the sloping sandy beaches are also safe and pleasant places for family swimming. Lake Oulujärvi is also located inside Finland’s only lake hiking area, with managed walking trails and other related services.

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Rokua

The rolling esker landscape of Rokua was created when the continental ice sheet melted about 10,000 years ago. Ponds with sparkling clear water, expanses of lichen shining like silver and beautifully curved dunes are the characteristic features of Rokua. The esker landscape and its surrounding area also feature sandy ridges shaped by the retreat of the Baltic Sea in the prehistoric period. Rokua National Park protects the area’s unique flora and landscap

This unique natural environment can be explored on skis, by snowmobile, on foot or by bike. A 70 km network of trails offers a wide range of options. The fresh, clear water of kettle holes is perfect for a dip on a hot summer’s day or for angling, trolling or ice fishing depending on the time of year. The Rokua area also offers plenty of tourism services.

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Rokua National Park

Rokua National Park was established in 1956 to protect the untouched lichen-clad forest floor and the unique geological features. Rokua National Park is among the second oldest group of national parks in Finland. Finland’s first national parks were founded in 1938. The National Park is located on the southern edge of the esker formation. It features dunes, kettle holes with mires and crystal clear groundwater pools, and ancient shore banks and plateaus. The park is also a site of untouched old-growth pine forests, rare in this region, with plenty of ancient pine trees and massive old trees. Rokua National Park is also Finland’s most important site for protecting barren forest.

Rokua National Park offers excellent opportunities for walking. There are marked trails in the park, as well as campfire sites and overnight shelter in Pitkäjärvi campsite or the wilderness hut at Pookivaara.


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