Puutikkala between Lake Kukkia and Lake Vihajärvi

Puutikkala lies on an isthmus between Lake Kukkia and Lake Vihajärvi. An isthmus is a narrow strip of land between bodies of water; here, it lies between these two lakes. The connection with water takes several forms as you plan your trip: the church boat’s summer journey, swimming spots and a rest stop for kayakers. Other highlights include the village street, documented for centuries, the glacial erratic Ukonkivi and the historic VPK Hall.

Lake scenery and waterways

A ridge formed by glacial meltwater shapes the landscape around Puutikkala. In the wider region, the waters of Lake Kukkia flow via the Kukkianvirta, with its three rapids and calmer stretches, to Vuollekeskinen and onward beneath the Virransilta bridge into Lake Vihajärvi. A boat trip on the Kukkianvirta ends in Vihavuosi, as the rapids are unnavigable. This river trip is distinct from the annual church boat journey, which crosses Lake Kukkia towards the church village of Luopioinen.

Church boat Ahti II

Every summer on Kirkastussunnuntai, the church boat Ahti II travels from Puutikkala across Lake Kukkia towards the church village of Luopioinen. The exact date varies from year to year. Check the date if you want to plan your trip around this journey. Built in 1988, the boat is based at Saksalanlahti in Puutikkala and can carry up to 50 people.

Swimming spots and Raholahti

Puutikkala’s village beach is at Raholahti. Raholahti is also a good rest stop for kayakers; you can reach it by land via Puutikkalanraitti 212 or Päivättömänniementie. Aapraminranta is a swimming spot on the Lake Vihajärvi side. To distinguish the locations, Raholahti is associated with the beach and a rest stop for kayakers, while Aapraminranta is a swimming spot on the Lake Vihajärvi side.

Village history and Ukonkivi

Puutikkala’s village street is documented as far back as 1457 and appears in the land tax register of 1539. The character of the compact linear village survived the devastating fire of 1875. The dates refer to different historical milestones: 1457 marks the earliest documentary record, 1539 the register entry and 1875 the fire, after which the village retained its linear layout.

Another way to explore the area’s cultural heritage is to visit Ukonkivi, a large glacial erratic with a cave-like interior. The Finnish Heritage Agency has classified it as a prehistoric place of worship and legend. The site is notable both for the striking shape of the erratic and its cultural and historical significance.

Events and local offerings

The old, historic VPK Hall hosts dances, pancake cafés and other events. Event dates may vary. Check the date in advance if you want to plan your trip around a particular event.

Puutikkalan Kesäpuoti offers freshly baked treats and fresh coffee.

Discover more destinations: Mouhijärvi, Metsäkansa, Nokia, Mänttä-Vilppula, Vammala, Laitikkala, Valkeakoski, Ylojarvi

For the main travel overview: Pirkanmaa.