Kannonkoski: Nature, Culture and Hotels

Kannonkoski combines the landscape around Lake Kivijärvi with distinctive natural sites and a unique cultural history. Sandy beaches, rock formations and island nature sit alongside an early Functionalist church and a local heritage collection. This lets you shape your stay around different interests rather than choosing just one main excursion.

Sandy beaches and varied shorelines

Kannonkoski is home to the sandy beaches of Lake Kivijärvi, some of which are designated nature reserves. Isohiekka is in northern Kannonkoski, on the edge of a nature reserve, and has a wide sandy beach. Nuottala Beach, by contrast, is at the harbour on the shore of Lake Kivijärvi in Hangaslahti. The two beach locations therefore differ both in where they are and in their character: one is a wide beach at the edge of a protected area, the other a beach by the harbour. This distinction can help you choose the shoreline that best suits your excursion plans.

There are different landscape features to explore beyond the beaches, too. Tapulikivet is a striking natural rock formation in Lakosyvänmaa, associated with local traditions. Lintusaari is in the surrounding municipality; deep water and steep rocky shores encircle the island. Its green interior is home to pine trees of different ages and rare plant species, forming a distinctive habitat. On the island, you can fish, walk along trails or sit by the shore and listen to the sounds of nature. The rock formation, the island’s interior and its shoreline offer different aspects of the landscape to discover.

Church, local heritage collection and history

Kannonkoski Church is a significant example of Finland’s early Functionalist church architecture, and its surroundings are of national importance. For travellers interested in architecture, it offers a tangible connection to the area’s building history. The local heritage collection complements this with a glimpse into everyday life in the past. It is housed in an old log barn in Nuottala, near the harbour, and consists mainly of objects related to farming and household management. The collection is open by appointment, so plan your visit accordingly.

Another historical landmark is Kannonsaha. Founded in 1835, this commercial sawmill was the largest of its kind in northern Central Finland, and a thriving village community grew up around it. This history broadens the picture of Kannonkoski beyond architecture and everyday objects: the development of a community is also part of what connects the area to its past.

Trails and activities in the municipality

Piispala is in Piispalankylä, on the shore of Lake Kivijärvi, within the surrounding municipality. The nature, sports and youth tourism centre is not located in the centre of the settlement of the same name. Its nature and adventure programme includes a 12-metre-high climbing tower; the availability of specific activities may vary. Also in the municipality, an easy-to-walk nature trail runs through the landscape of Piispala and Öijänniemi, introducing visitors to the natural environment of Kannonkoski. The trail and climbing tower offer different activities. Check the trail’s condition before your visit.

For another excursion, the route to Peikonpesä, a cave on Kiihkovuori, includes varied sections of trail. Vartiolinna is recommended as the starting point. From the summit area of Kiihkovuori, you can also enjoy a view of Lake Kivijärvi. The cave, route and viewpoint are useful landmarks for planning your visit; the access description notes the varied terrain and recommends a starting point.

Getting there

From Helsinki and Oulu, travel via Route 4, also known as E75, to Viitasaari. From there, take the Blue Highway 77 and Route 648 to the centre of Kannonkoski. Check current road conditions before setting off.

Discover more destinations: Lannevesi, Hankasalmi, Lievestuore, Saarijärvi, Petäjävesi, Vaajakoski, Rutalahti, Vahanka

For the wider travel overview: Central Finland.