Norppasoutu – A Traditional Rowing Adventure in Saimaa

Norppasoutu is more than just a rowing event; it’s an adventure in the heart of Saimaa, where breathtaking landscapes, traditional longboats, and a relaxed, communal atmosphere come together. In summer 2026, we will row through the iconic landscapes of Punkaharju, with the event center located at Kruunupuisto on the beautiful ridge area. This three-day rowing tour takes place on June 26–28, 2026.

What to Expect?

Norppasoutu is a leisurely rowing trip through the island labyrinth of Saimaa, covering 25–35 km per day in traditional church boats equipped with sliding seats. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of Finland’s largest lake and learn about long-distance rowing, no prior experience needed!

Along the way, we take breaks to enjoy coffee, swim in the clear waters, and admire serene nature of the lake. In the evenings, we relax with a delicious dinner and a sauna, the perfect way to unwind after a day on the water.

Itinerary Highlights

This year’s Norppasoutu is a three-day tour from Kyrönniemi to Kruunupuisto and back; at a relaxed pace, in traditional church boats equipped with sliding seats for comfortable rowing.

The adventure begins on Friday morning in Savonlinna, where participants gather for breakfast. After breakfast, the group continues to the boats at Kyrönniemi, where the day’s 35 km rowing begins. Along the way, we stop for a coffee break in Ikoinniemi and glide under the Virtasalmi bridge before continuing toward Punkaharju. In the afternoon, the boats arrive at Kruunupuisto, where participants settle into their accommodation, enjoy dinner, and relax in the wood-heated lakeside sauna with refreshing swims in Saimaa, of course.

On Saturday, the plan is a scenic 25 km loop around Vaahersalo Island. During the day, we take breaks, stretch our legs, and enjoy the summer atmosphere of the Saimaa archipelago. In the afternoon, we return to Kruunupuisto for dinner and a relaxing sauna at Villa Urhola.

On Sunday, the journey continues back toward Savonlinna after breakfast and preparing the day’s picnic snacks. The route once again passes under the Virtasalmi bridge, with a coffee break at Ikoinniemi before the final stretch of the row. The event culminates in a dinner at Olavinlinna Castle. Afterwards, we row the final short way to Kyrönniemi, collect our equipment and begin the journey home, carrying plenty of wonderful memories from the Saimaa waters.

The Scenery: Pihlajavesi Archipelago and the Punkaharju Ridge

The Norppasoutu route takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Finland. The Pihlajavesi archipelago, known for its maze of clear-water channels, forested islands, and rocky shores, offers an ever-changing panorama that makes every kilometer rewarding. As you approach Punkaharju, the scenery becomes even more iconic: the famous Punkaharju ridge rises between two shimmering lakes, creating a unique national landscape that has inspired travellers, artists, and nature lovers for centuries. Rowing through this environment is an experience in itself, peaceful, pristine, and undeniably beautiful. Whether it’s the soft morning light over the islands or the golden ridge views in the evening, these are moments you will remember long after the journey ends.

Why church boat rowing?

Church boat rowing is one of the finest ways to enjoy the nature of Saimaa, combining outdoor exercise, refreshing swims, teamwork and breathtaking landscapes. Daily distances are 25–35 km, and the traditional wooden boats equipped with sliding seats make the journey smooth and enjoyable. No prior rowing experience is required. It’s easy to find the rhythm, and the boats are stable and suitable for beginners. Whether you’re a seasoned rower or a complete beginner, our team will guide you through the experience.

Norppasoutu is a fantastic way to experience Finnish nature, enjoy outdoor activities, and meet new people in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

See the full program here.

The meeting place is here.

Registration will open on March 2026 – grab an oar and join the adventure! 

 

Registration fees

• 3 days: 190 €/person
• 1 day:  90 €/person

Registration fees include

• place in the boat
• breakfast
• coffee or tee during the afternoon break
• picnic lunch (Saturday and Sunday)
• supper
• ’organizers’ liability insurance

 

Accommodation in Punkaharju

Accommodation for Norppasoutu is arranged in the scenic surroundings of Kruunupuisto in Punkaharju, where every rower can find an option that suits their style. Participants can choose hotel rooms in the main building or in the charming Art Nouveau Villa Urhola reserved entirely for Norppasoutu, or opt for a more outdoorsy experience with tent spots on the villa’s lawn.

Hotel accommodation offers comfort and ease after long days of rowing: soft beds, ready-made rooms and close access to Kruunupuisto’s facilities ensure a smooth and relaxing evening.

For those seeking a touch of adventure, camping is a beautiful way to stay close to nature right at the edge of Lake Saimaa. Evening saunas are heated daily and open to all participants.

Reservations are made when registering for the event.

Room Rates:

Villa Urhola:

• Twin room: €116 / 2 persons / night (€58 per person per night)

• Single room: €90 per person per night

Main Building:

• Twin hotel room: €116 / 2 persons / night (€58 per person per night)

• Single room: €90 per person per night

Tent Sites:

• On the lawn in front of Villa Urhola: €10 per person per night

• Take your own tent with you

The tent site fee includes access to toilets, showers and the sauna. The lawn area offers a beautiful view over Lake Saimaa’s Pihlajavesi.

Account number and payee

OKOBANK Helsinki Finland 565083-27771 Nojanmaan Nopsa

IBAN: FI97 5650 83 20 0077 71

SWIFT CODE: OKOY FI HH

Payment no later than May 31.

Registration and reservations by

• registration form

• norppasoutu@spynet.fi

• Tuula Mähönen tel. +358-449831350

• no later than May 24.