Gravel Bike
|Heinävesi
Saimaa by Cycle: Monastery Tour 31 km
The Monastery Tour (31 km) is the Heinävesi route, combining the tranquility of monasteries, the history of canals, and the idyll of the Koskijärvi wooden bridge.
The route is guided only digitally. You can find instructions for the digital route guidance on the Bikeland.fi website: https://www.bikeland.fi/blogi/pyorareitilla-navigointi-gpx-jaljen-avulla/
Description
The Monastery Tour is a perfect cycling trip for lovers of culture, history, and nature! This 31 km route combines the tranquility of the Lintula and Valamo monasteries, the historic atmosphere of the Taivallas and Varistaipale canals, and the idyllic wooden bridge of Koskijärvi.
The route travels comfortably on asphalt and gravel roads, with a short trail section adding a touch of adventure – the part where you need to walk your bike only increases the vibe! Break spots include the summer café of Lintula Monastery, Café Ronttopuisto, and the Trapeza restaurant of Valamo Monastery. Along the route are also the Palokka rapids, whose liberation from hydroelectric power may happen in the future, possibly making them the crown jewel of southern Finland's rapids nature.
About one-third of the route is asphalt. Around half a kilometer is on more challenging forest trails, where walking your bike is recommended in places. The rest of the route consists of gravel roads of varying widths. This route offers a suitable challenge for those in normal condition and experiences for the whole journey!
Safety
The phone network covers the entire route area: emergency calls can always be made via number 112 or the 112 app.