Pick your own island - Be idle!

We welcome you to begin your unforgettable paddling adventure in Oravi. Our charming village is situated in the middle of the archipelago of lake Saimaa. We offer you good-quality equipment and qualified tour guides and nature takes care of the rest! The magnificent archipelago of Joutenvesi is like paradise for canoeists. Great expanses of open water and straits between hundreds of islands, seals, more than 30 marked camping places, clean and safe water. What else can you wish for? Take the safari bus from City of Savonlinna at 10 am. During the one hour drive you will see typical Finnish countryside with local farms, woodland and lakes. Bus arrives in Oravi Charming Village at 11 am. Head first to the village grocery shop to buy some local products for your adventure as packed lunch. From the largest canoeing center in Saimaa you will get needed gear and instructions. You are now ready for your self-guided kayaking tour! Paddle through Oravi canal admiring the traditional wooden houses and cottages along the shore. Enter the island labyrinth of Joutenvesi, nature reserve area. You are bound to experience breathtaking scenery and natural silence; Joutenvesi literally translated is Be-idle-lake. You can pick an islet you are fond of to be your lunch and wild swimming spot. Just remember to be back in Oravi village to catch the bus to Savonlinna at 7 pm. If you are too enchanted to leave the village, we fully understand. Then you can book a villa or a hotel apartment in the village. Have a wonderful dinner of local delicacies in Ruukinranta restaurant and top off your day in sauna and swimming in Oravi canal enjoying the Nordic white nights.