Kolovesi National Park, National park in Southern Savonia, Finland.
Koloveski National Park is characterized by steep cliffs rising sharply from the water and narrow channels that wind between forested islands. The landscape shifts between high rock faces, dense woodland, and open water surfaces that together create a varied terrain.
The area became a protected national park in 1990, securing its natural features for the future. Ancient rock paintings found here reveal that people inhabited and used this region for thousands of years before its formal establishment.
Paddling by canoe or kayak is the intended way to move through the water, as motorized boats are not permitted. This rule shapes the experience and directs visitors toward a quieter, self-directed form of travel across the lakes.
Two marked hiking trails allow exploration on foot, while boats and paddles are needed to navigate the water channels and passages. Visitors should bring weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear, as the terrain can be demanding and conditions can change quickly.
The water harbors one of Europe's rarest mammals, the Saimaa ringed seal, with only a few hundred remaining in the world. This species is found nowhere else and represents a precious part of the region's natural heritage.
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