Activities and Well-being
Tourists in Rautavaara spend their time engaging in activities in nature. There’s plenty to do in every season!
Equipment rental
Metsäkartano invites you to enjoy self-guided outdoor activities that take you deep into the forest and to the lakeshore. In summer, explore the wonders of hiking and paddling, while in winter, snowy trails and frozen lakes offer the perfect setting for snowshoeing and skiing. Metsäkartano’s diverse outdoor opportunities guarantee experiences for all your senses, in every season.
Metsäkartano
Metsäkartano offers a unifying nature experience and inspiring surroundings for escaping everyday life year-round. Embark on guided adventures in an environment where nature calms the mind, sparks creativity, and fosters genuine connections within your group. Nestled at the edge of Tiilikkajärvi National Park, in the heart of tranquility and beauty, every moment here is filled with endless possibilities.
Savon Menevä
Savon Menevä organizes experience and program services for groups in Rautavaara and Tahko. They also host events, such as the Kelekka-ajot (snowmobile ride events) in Rautavaara.
Honkala Nature Services
Guided wilderness and nature excursions for all ages! We tailor trips and nature experiences just for you, based on your preferences. In addition to day trips, we also offer fishing and forest excursions, as well as guidance. Loan equipment is available, so all you need is a sense of adventure! You can also get lake fish, berries, and mushrooms from us, depending on the season.
Contact us via email
Oivallusvaara
Oivallusvaara offers wellbeing services, along with related training and workplace wellbeing activities, drawing on ancient wisdom and the power of nature — all within the framework of modern medicine.
Rental hot tub
For those looking for luxury during a trip or a break from the mundane, Savoste are renting a hot tub. The hot tub can fit 8-10 people so even the extended family fits in. Be it a hot summer day or a cold winter day, their hot tub will help your mind and body relax. For more information use the button below!
Private sauna
What could be better than a sauna after a workday or at the start of your holiday? At the Hotel-Restaurant Tiilikka’s private sauna, you can enjoy the warmth, cool down with snacks and ice-cold drinks, and relax in the cozy lounge area next to the sauna facilities.
Karaoke & music
At Hotel-Restaurant Tiilikka, you can sing your favorite songs in a relaxed atmosphere and enjoy live music and great company. Music lovers can look forward to regular events and karaoke nights at Tiilikka.
Billiards
Challenge your friends to a game of billiards at Hotel-Restaurant Tiilikka! The pool table is generally available during restaurant opening hours, so bring your friends and test your skills in some friendly competition.
Trails
Head out on the trails to admire the stunning landscapes of Rautavaara, discover the fascinating stories of the surrounding area, and explore the rich nature of Tiilikkajärvi National Park!
Älänne area
Wilderness hiking, berry and mushroom picking, fishing, or cross-country skiing in deep snow. Nature trails and canoeing. Älänne provides excellent settings for a variety of outdoor activities, whether for a short excursion or a longer adventure.
In Tiilikkajärvi
Want to go snowshoeing, hiking, skiing, or paddling? The national park offers activities for every season. These and many other ways to enjoy the outdoors await you!
Boating
The lakes of Rautavaara invite you to the water. Boat launch sites and free rowing boats make it easy to set off, and a summer’s day is perfectly crowned by a peaceful moment on the lake, admiring the scenery.
Fishing
The pristine waters of Rautavaara invite anglers! Enjoy trolling in the summer or ice fishing on the sunny late-winter ice.
Geocaching
Rautavaara is one of Finland’s best geocaching areas! Most of the caches in the municipality are located along trails or forest roads, offering challenges for geocachers of all levels. The area mainly features easy traditional caches, but there are also some enjoyable multi and mystery caches to discover. List of geocaches (in finnish).
Disc golf parks
Disc Golf. The 9-hole course in the village center is located around the sports field and jogging track, at Urheilutie 1. Meanwhile, Metsäkartano offers an 11-hole course that provides a challenge even for more experienced players.
Dog forest
Dogs travelling with their owners are welcome to visit the Rautavaara Dog Forest. In this fenced area, your pet can burn off energy after a long journey and enjoy the outdoors. Meanwhile, owners can pause to relax in the tranquillity of nature and chat with fellow dog owners.
Tent sauna
Experience a traditional Finnish sauna by the lakeside. The warm steam and scenic lake views make for an unforgettable moment, and between sauna sessions you can take a refreshing dip in the lake. The tent sauna is free of charge and open to everyone without reservation during the summer season.
Carpet washing
The carpet washing site on Koulutie makes cleaning carpets easy. Washing basins, a wringer and drying racks are available for everyone to use, and after a short wash you can enjoy the fresh scent of clean carpets.
Star gazing
The wilderness areas of Rautavaara provide excellent conditions for stargazing without disruptive light pollution. The locations listed in the Ursa observation points include:
Playgrounds
Behind the school center in the village park area, there is a playground for children. In front of the Metsäkartano Youth Centre and Nature Holiday Resort, you’ll find an adventurous play area for kids.
Swimming spots
Numerous peaceful natural sandy beaches invite water enthusiasts to splash around or sunbathers to put their toes into the sand.
Ice fishing
The new highlight of winter 2024 is Ice Fishing Parking spots! From these parking spots, you can easily and quickly go straight from your car to ice fishing.
Sledding spots
Sled, toboggan, snow tube, or skis? There are many ways to enjoy the snow and go sledding in Rautavaara!
Snowmobile routes
Rautavaara is a popular destination for snowmobilers, thanks to its excellent snow conditions and well-maintained trails. There are connections to Tahko, Vuokatti, Juuka, and Valtimo, making it a great hub for exploring the region by snowmobile.
Skiing
The skiing opportunities in Rautavaara are excellent for both beginners and experienced skiers. Cross-country skiing on untouched snow over frozen lakes or through forests is a unique experience. Well-maintained trails, some of which are illuminated, can be found throughout the municipality of Rautavaara.