Discover Pankakoski

Pankakoski combines a long industrial history with opportunities to enjoy nature and be active in Ruunaa. If you are looking for a hotel for a trip to Pankakoski, it is helpful to consider these different highlights: the factory and residential area represents the ironworks and cardboard production, while Ruunaa offers a connection with nature through its river landscape, forests, and marked trails.

Industrial history in several stages

The Pankakoski ironworks began operating in the 1820s. The history of the factory workforce includes settlements from various decades: Hangaspuro developed from the 1880s, and Rasivaara from the 1920s. In Heittopelto, the ironworks had eight residential buildings constructed in the 1890s; the workers’ residential area has been preserved. The history of the area therefore includes not only production but also the development of its residential areas.

Cardboard production began in 1912; that same year, the red-brick grinding mill of the cardboard factory was completed. By 1915, the factory was already Finland’s largest producer of white cardboard. The old ironworks environment, along with the emergence and development of the forest industry in the 20th century, also shapes the history of the Pankakoski factory and residential area. The Pankakoski power plant on the Lieksanjoki is a work by Alvar Aalto from 1962. The ironworks, cardboard factory, and power plant thus represent different chapters in the area’s industrial history.

Ruunaa: River Landscape and Trails

In Ruunaa, the focus shifts from industrial history to the landscape. The foaming Lieksanjoki and the pine forests along its banks define the scenery. This landscape has more than 50 kilometres of varied, marked hiking trails. The Ruunaa recreational area also has routes for hikers and mountain bikers.

At Neitikoski, an accessible path leads to the rapids. You can use it on foot, in a wheelchair, or with a stroller. This means that your travel plans can include both marked hiking trails in the Ruunaa landscape and a specifically described path to the rapids.

Outdoor Activities and Seasonal Conditions

Pankakoski has a 7.2-kilometre illuminated fitness trail. Its seasonal maintenance may vary, so take this into account when planning and check the current conditions before setting out. Orienteering maps for Pankakoski are available from the Lieksa Sports Office. You can include the maps in your plans if orienteering is one of your interests.

The city maintains a beach in Pankakoski. Seasonal access and water conditions may vary; take both into account when planning to swim. The practical conditions also differ between activities: for the fitness trail, seasonal maintenance should be considered, while for swimming, access and water conditions are relevant.

A Quiet Place for Reflection

The Ruunaa forest church in Pankakoski is intended for everyone seeking a quiet place for reflection and meditation. It consists of a cross, a few benches, and an altar table. Alongside the industrial and nature-related themes, it offers a distinct focus on contemplation for your trip.

For the broader travel overview: Pielinen Karelia.