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. This three-day rowing tour takes place on June 27–29, 2025, in the stunning waters of Linnansaari National Park, with Saimaa Holiday Oravi as our rowing center.

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 the national park’s rugged cliffs and serene nature. One highlight of the trip is a short hike up Linnavuori Hill, offering a spectacular panoramic view of the archipelago. 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

• Friday: Departure after breakfast from Kyrönniemi boat shelter in Savonlinna. A coffee break at Kallioranta, rowing to Oravi, where we stay in high-quality villas by the canal.
• Saturday: Exploring Linnansaari National Park, rowing between islands and hiking to Linnavuori Hill.
• Sunday: Rowing back to Savonlinna, finishing with a farewell meal in Olavinlinna, a medieval castle with a fascinating history.

Why Join Norppasoutu?

Norppasoutu is a fantastic way to experience Finnish nature, enjoy outdoor activities, and meet new people in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned rower or a complete beginner, our team will guide you through the experience.

See the full program here.

Norppasoutu 2025 rowing route

The meeting place is here.

Registration in now open – grab an oar and join the adventure! 

 

Registration fees

• 3 days: 200 €/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 Oravi – By the Oravi Canal

Accommodation for Norppasoutu participants is available in tents or high-quality villas by the Oravi Canal. Reservations are made when registering for the event.

Tent 

• 10 € / person / night
• Includes access to toilets, showers, and a sauna.
• Limited tent spots available near the villas; additional spaces near Oravi Marina.
• Saunas are located close to the tent areas, either at the villas or the marina’s lakeside sauna.
• Take your own tent with you

Villa Accommodation

• 50 € / person / night in a shared twin room
• 100 € / person / night in a private single room (limited availability)
• Prices include bed linens, towels, final cleaning, and access to the villa sauna and toilet.

The villas are located in a peaceful lakeside setting, about 1,5 km from the restaurant. Each fully equipped villa features four bedrooms, a spacious living area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a large sauna section with a lake view.

• Private beach, dock, rowing boat fire pit, and large terrace
• Electric sauna with lake views, showers in the sauna area (access via terrace)
• Fireplace, TV, DVD player, Free Wi-Fi and satellte channels
• Dishwasher, washing machine, drying cabinet, fridge/freezer, dinnerware for 12 people
• Air-source heat pump for heating/cooling

 

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 25.