Patvinkierto – The Richness of Mire Nature in Patvinsuo National Park

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Description

Beach, forest and swamp. Long trees and wide expanses of savannah-like marshland, as well as the clear, sandy shores of Lake Koitere. The Patvin Swamp is circled by the Patvin Loop, a 25-kilometre-long circular route that winds through marshland and conifers to the shores of Lake Koitarejärvi.Teret's bird tower overlooks the vast marshland and is a good vantage point from which to explore the landscape below. The Majalahti campsite is right on the shore of Lake Koitere and the beach is really lovely for a refreshing dip. The smooth sand and long shallow beach is also nice to wade along. The area has a campfire site, toilets and a woodshed, as well as plenty of tent pitches right on the beach. The route of the Patvinkirme runs along longitudinal trees in several places, but there is also plenty of other terrain: pine woodland, spruce woodland and lush green groves.The bog is ever-changing with the seasons, so there is something new to see, colour and smell in every season. On summer and autumn hikes, you can also taste the flavours of different berries.

You can explore Lieksa’s tourism services and attractions at www.lieksatravel.fi/en

Safety

Open fires during forest or grass fire warnings and in high winds are prohibited.
Be careful - do not leave the fire alone. Last to leave, make sure the fire is out.
In rainy and wet weather, longitudinal trees, rocks and roots can be very slippery.
Keep first aid supplies with you.
112 (also download the free 112 Finland app on your phone).
Please note that there may be some coverage problems with mobile phone connections.
Check the Finnish Meteorological Institute's warnings!
Plan and arrange your day trips according to your fitness level

Location & Parking

Patvinsuo National Park is located east of the Joensuu - Lieksa road (cantonal road 73). The distance from Joensuu to Patvinsuo via Uimaharju is 90 km. Suomu Nature Reserve is 40 km from Uimaharju and 55 km from Lieksa.

Directions to Patvinsuo National Park.

Transport services to Lieksa's hiking trails

There is no public transport to the site. Parking spaces on the map

Directions

You can find the route description on the Patvinsuo National Park website

Tools and equipment

The route is marked on the terrain with orange-yellow coloured pins and signs. No map or compass is required.
Waterproof and sturdy shoes suitable for the varied terrain, weatherproof hiking clothing and warm clothing for breaks and spare clothing.
Overnight accommodation in the field or in a hut (own accommodation, sleeping bag and sleeping pad).
Food requirements according to the length of the excursion, camping stove and utensils for cooking.
Hygiene equipment, toilet paper for toilets, rubbish bag.
Sunglasses, sunglasses, sunscreen and lotion, insect hat and long-sleeved clothing for protection against insects.
Compass, map and headlamp.Matches and a knife for lighting fires.
First aid kit, local taxi number, emergency power supply.
Choose your accommodation and plan your water supply in advance, as there are only a few water points along the route. If you use natural water for drinking, boil it for a few minutes before using it.
Check the Patvinsuo National Park website for access to water boards, blue-green algae conditions and other precautions.

Additional information

Easy - possible without preparation.

GPX

Starting point

Lahnalamm car park, Surkanpuro or Kurkilahti

Destination

Lahnalamm car park, Surkanpuro or Kurkilahti

Difficulty level

Easy

Length

25.0km

Estimated time

08:00h

Ascent meters

145m

Descent meters

140m

Highest point

189m

Lowest point

139m

Author tips:

At least visit the Teret Bird Tower. On an autumn hike, you can find cranberries for a snack right next to the long trees. There are also plenty of blueberries in the area.

Author:

Mari Mustonen

Updated: 28.05.2026