Oravi on the Saimaa Canal: Between Two National Parks

Oravi is located between Linnansaari and Kolovesi National Parks. A scenic canal runs through the village, serving as an important junction in the Saimaa Lake waterways. It is also part of a paddling route across the Tappuvirta Strait and along the Haponlahti Canal to Lake Haukivesi in Linnansaari National Park. Those planning a stay in Oravi will find a strong connection here to waterways, paddling trips and nature experiences in the two national parks.

Waterways and services in the village centre

The village centre by the canal offers equipment rental and a shuttle service to Linnansaari. Oravi also has a guest harbour that serves visitors during the summer season. Check its seasonal availability before you arrive. At the canoe centre in Oravi, you can rent canoes, kayaks, rowboats, SUP boards, small motorboats and camping equipment. Check the specific selection of rental equipment again before your trip.

Paddling and guided tours

Oravi is a starting point for canoe trips in Linnansaari and Kolovesi National Parks. A three-hour, beginner-friendly kayaking tour is offered near Oravi. Participants learn safe paddling techniques, how to handle the equipment and the basics of self-rescue before setting off on a short tour through sheltered waters. A guided full-day kayaking tour in Linnansaari National Park is fully equipped; kayak equipment, expert guidance and snacks are included. SaimaaHoliday Oravi also offers a fully guided full-day kayaking tour in Kolovesi National Park, including a meal in the wilderness. The three-hour introduction and the full-day tours therefore differ both in duration and in the itinerary described. Seasons and booking conditions may change; check the specific offer before making plans.

There are also different options for wildlife watching from a boat. A small-group safari in an open boat, led by a professional seal guide, offers the chance to see the endangered Saimaa ringed seal in Linnansaari National Park. May is the key time for seal watching. Another small-group open-boat safari combines sunset in Linnansaari National Park with a professional nature guide; it is offered seasonally from June to September. For fishing trips, SaimaaHoliday Oravi offers a guided trolling tour led by a local fishing expert, departing from Oravi harbour. Check the seasonal availability of this tour before booking.

Getting there and seasonal planning

A water taxi from Oravi to Linnansaari can be booked daily from 1 May to 31 October. A one-way trip to the Sammakkoniemi campsite costs €16 per person, with a minimum charge of €52 per boat. Confirm the dates before your trip. On school days, there is also a local bus service between Savonlinna and Oravi; check the timetable for your travel date.

In winter, activities depend on snow and ice conditions. A snowmobile lunch safari departs from the reception at SaimaaHoliday Oravi and follows marked and maintained ice routes through the winter landscape of Lake Haukivesi. The ride takes about an hour and a half and includes a light meal. The car park at the Ruukinranta car park is available for the Oravi cross-country ski trail; the trail starts on Oravintie. A ski trail is prepared on the Oravi ice route when weather and ice conditions permit.

Another winter option is the hiking trail from Oravi to Linnansaari: it is five kilometres each way and marked with red poles. Winter conditions and opening status vary, so check the latest information before setting out. The different details help you distinguish between the planned activities and their timeframes when planning your trip.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Putikko, Ihamaniemi, Kallislahti, Enonkoski, Savonranta, Punkaharju, Sulkava, Kumpuranta.

For the broader travel guide: Savonlinna.