Description of the destination:
Suomalansaari is an esker island at the brink of the earth. The shores of the island form the final frontier before the great open waters of the lake Saimaa. If one wishes to travel on land to the opposite shores at the other side of the lake, the distance to travel from Suomalansaari is vast, easily over 100 kilometers. The narrow ridges, sandy beaches and before all, the incredible views to lake Saimaa make Suomalansaari well worth visiting. These parts of the lake Saimaa are living habitats of the rare and endangered Saimaa seal. It is possible to see a seal observing curiously the people passing by.
Description of the route:
Get on your bike and head east. Roads to follow are: First on Kopinniementie, then to the left at Kuivasensaarentie. Next Rahikkalan-Pettiläntie and finally Suomalansaarentie. On your way you’ll be able to enjoy lunch and beverages at Pettilä village and see the Rahikkala village which is also known as the church builders village. There’s a statue to honour the memory of those skilled men, who developed the finnish way to build wooden churches. Near Suomalansaari you can take a break, swim on the fine beach at Ketvelinlahti and admire the beautiful esker at Ketvelinharju.
Additional info:
Suomalansaari and Ketvelinniemi: https://saimaageopark.fi/en/esker-ridge-between-ketvelinniemi-and-kermanniemi/
Route details on a map: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42306800
Route length: 25 km there and back in total.
Duration: 2 hours with relaxed cycling speed.
Difficulty level: Easy.