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Kuhasalo Nature Trail: A Lakeside Escape in Joensuu

Explore Kuhasalo Nature Trail in Joensuu: Lakeside hiking, historic sites, and stunning Finnish scenery await!

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Escape the city bustle on the Kuhasalo Nature Trail, a serene hiking area near Joensuu's center. Explore the historic Kukkosensaari island with its lush forests, rocky shores, and remnants of an old Orthodox monastery, all while enjoying stunning views of Lake Pyhäselkä.

A brief summary to Kuhasalo Nature Trail

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the summer to see the sheep that help maintain the landscape.
  • Take advantage of the campfire sites for a scenic lakeside picnic; firewood is provided.
  • Consider renting the Kalmonkatiska or Kuhamaja grilling huts for a more sheltered cooking experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Joensuu marketplace, the Kuhasalo Nature Trail is approximately 3 kilometers away. Walking from the city center, follow the roads towards the deep-water harbor (Syväsatama). Continue onto Hukanhaudantie road, which becomes Kuhasalontie. Turn left onto Luostarintie road. The parking area for the nature trail is on the left. From the parking area, the trails are easily accessible.

  • Public Transport

    From the Joensuu city center, take a local bus towards Penttilä. From the nearest bus stop in Penttilä, it is about a 1.7 km walk to Kuhasalo. Follow Luostarintie road to the parking area for the nature trail.

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Discover more about Kuhasalo Nature Trail

The Kuhasalo Nature Trail, located on Kukkosensaari island just a few kilometers from Joensuu's city center, offers a refreshing escape into nature. This accessible recreation area boasts a diverse landscape, combining smooth rock shores, wide lake views, and enchanting forests. The island's history adds another layer to its appeal. In the 16th century, Kuhasalo was the site of a small Orthodox monastery, a branch of the Valamo Monastery. A monument now marks the location of this wilderness monastery. The island's name changed to Kukkosensaari in the 17th century when the wealthy Kukkonen family settled there. The trail itself offers two main routes, one and two kilometers in length, that wind along the shores of Lake Pyhäselkä. The terrain is generally easy, making it suitable for various fitness levels, though some shoreline sections are rocky. Along the way, you'll find six campfire sites with maintained firewood, perfect for a lakeside picnic. Two rental grilling huts, Kalmonkatiska and Kuhamaja, provide additional options for enjoying a meal in nature. Keep an eye out for the sheep that graze the landscape during the summer months. Kuhasalo's natural environment is rich and varied. The island features grove-like areas, rugged shores, and dimly lit spruce forests. Plant life is abundant, with species ranging from common alders and wood ferns to prickly lettuce. The area is also home to a diverse array of fungi and all of Finland's woodpecker species.

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