Oravikoski

Oravikoski is a destination with a particularly tangible mining history: Kotalahti represents the growth of Finland’s mining industry in the 1960s. Traces of old mills and the striking Isokivi erratic boulder add further points of interest. When choosing holiday accommodation, you can decide whether to focus your stay on local history, a natural formation or experiences at the swimming spot.

Kotalahti and the history of mining

Outokumpu’s Kotalahti nickel mine operated in Oravikoski from 1959 to 1987. At its peak, it employed more than 300 people there. Kotalahti is a relatively large, closed mining environment that represents the growth of Finland’s mining industry in the 1960s. The miners’ settlement also includes a nationally significant built cultural landscape protected by the Finnish Heritage Agency.

The history of milling also goes back a long way. A mill belonging to the residents of Kotalahti is said to have stood at the site of Oravikosken Mylly as early as the 17th century. At the end of the 18th century, the Oravikoski rapids were used as a source of power for a sawmill. Two so-called Härkin mills are recorded in the rapids area in 1786. Traces of old mill buildings remain east of the canal. These various clues trace the story from an early mill through the use of the rapids to the surviving structural remains.

Isokivi: an erratic boulder with an unusual profile

A striking natural landmark in Oravikoski is the glacial erratic boulder that locals call Isokivi. It is more than six metres high and about ten metres wide, and is considered one of the largest erratic boulders in Pohjois-Savo. These dimensions alone give the stone a distinct presence: it is not a small trail marker, but a sizeable rock formation. Its shape and profile make Isokivi suitable for climbing. Visitors interested in geology and striking natural features will find a different focus here from the historical heritage of Kotalahti.

Swimming spot, sports and routes to the lean-to shelter

The Oravikoski swimming spot is in Oravilahti, on Lätkätie. Its shallow, safe shore is considered suitable for children; there is also a 1.7-metre-high diving tower. For families wishing to include time by the water in their trip, the shoreline and diving tower are distinctive features of this swimming spot. They add a different kind of activity to the area’s historical and natural character.

Oravikosken Pallo ry is associated with beach volleyball and tennis in Oravikoski. There is also an outdoor ice rink. Visitors heading to the Oravikoski lean-to shelter can take the path behind Oravikoski School or drive via Kivisalmelmetie. The shelter is about 100 metres from the road. There are specific options for different interests: sports, a visit to the lean-to shelter, local history and geology can all be prioritised according to personal preference.

Oravikoski thus combines an industrial past, old mill buildings, a large natural formation and a range of places for leisure.

More local pages: Leppävirta, Anttola, Kuhmo, Heinävesi, Kosula, Ruokolahti.

For the broader travel overview: Lake Saimaa.