Koli National Park

Koli is the highest hill in North Karelia, located on the shore of Lake Pielinen in Lieksa. It is one of the best known Finnish national parks. Koli mainly consists of white quartz. It has many treeless, white, rocky areas near the top of the hill. The hills near Koli are the remnants of an ancient mountain range, the Karelides. They were formed nearly 2 billion years ago, when thick sandstone sediments turned to rock and then folded when continental plates collided. The highest point of the range of hills, as well the highest in the Southern half of Finland is Ukko-Koli, 347 metres above sea level, and 253 metres above Lake Pielinen.

At the bottom of the hill is the village of Koli. There is a hotel and a downhill skiing centre in Koli and it is possible to drive a car almost to the top of the hill. The summit of Koli is in its natural state, except for the stairs and paths leading up to it. The surface area of Koli is only 30 sq. km, yet many rare types of scenery can be found in the area. The slash and burn culture of years gone past has been preserved, as well as the species dependent on it.

The cultural provisions of Koli are also strong. It used to be an ancient sacrificial site, an important area for slash and burn farming, as well as a pilgrimage destination for artists during the turn of the 20th century. Koli is also important in upholding traditions and local cultural values. Artists and writers such as Jean Sibelius, Juhani AHo, I.K Inha and in particular Eero Järnefelt were inspired by Koli. Painters found the rugged scenery of Koli during the 19th century, and since then it has been one of the most important national sceneries.

Rowers will be able to sample the beautiful scenery during the opening day of the rowing tour, while rowing from Lieksa to Haapalahti.