Saija’s verdant forests and pristine lakes invite you to enjoy the silence of Finnish nature. Summer season lasts from beginning of June untill End of August. The colourfull "Ruska"-season is at its best in September. You can choose from many alternatives to be active outdoors such as hiking, biking, canoeing, SUP-boarding and fishing, guided or on your own. Take a bath in the lake directly from your en-suite sauna, enjoy the bright and silent summer nights on a canoeing tour. The ones who are interested in predators, we suggest a Bear-watching safari in the wilderness. Enjoy nature at its best while picking up and eating berries. Here are growing cloudberries, raspberries, blueberries, lingonberries and cranberries.
A dream destination for nature lovers
In Saija, visitors have the opportunity to explore natural landscapes that are untouched, taking them across wide expanses of forest, secluded tracts of marshland, rivers and lakes. Our local trails are also ideally suited to biking – there are plenty of hills to keep experienced mountain bikers busy while beginners will love the gentle and easy-to-navigate paths.
The biking routes will take you through a rich and varied terrain and offer perfect spots for resting, fishing and taking in the breathtaking scenery. Mountain bikes and fat bikes (also children size) are available for hire in Saija.
Hiking routes and areas in Taivalkoski: for instance Simosenpolku (starting from Saija's garden) and Kylmäluoma. Please ask for more areas at our reception.
Canoeing fun
The beautiful Lake Jokijärvi can be accessed directly from our door and offers the ideal setting for canoeing or kayaking and exploring Finnish nature. The many lakes and rivers in our area provide a wide range of leisure opportunities for beginners and more advanced water sport enthusiasts alike, including excellent fishing.
Canoes, kayaks, SUP boards, rowing boats, tents and fishing equipment are available for hire in Saija.
Online Shop with day activities and equipment rental
You have already booked your accommodation but would like to join some guided day activities or reserve some rental equipment?
Saija’s finest fishing waters
Jokijärvi
Our lake is a great spot for luring pike and redfin perch. You can choose to stay on shore or head out in one of our small rowing or motorboats. Our guides are always on hand to show you the best casting spots. We also have facilities for guests wishing to use their own boats. Fishing licenses can be purchased in Saija. The fishing season runs throughout the year - in winter, Lake Jokijärvi is an ideal spot for ice fishing.
Tyräjärvi
One of the largest bodies of water in the local area, Lake Tyräjärvi can be reached by car or by boat along River Tyräjoki. The deepest sections of the lake are an excellent opportunity for catching zander. The lake is also known for its abundant pike and redfin perch populations. Fishing licenses are available to purchase in Saija. The fishing season runs throughout the year. In winter, the lake is ideal for catching burbot.
River fishing at River Iijoki
A 20-kilometer stretch of river at Jokijärvi and Taivalkoski is a popular spot for white water fishing and home to excellent grayling and brown trout grounds. Fishing licenses are available to purchase in Saija. The fishing reason runs from midday on 1 June until 31 October. No trout fishing after 12.9..
Further fishing opportunities are available locally, including at Korvuanjoki and Ohtaoja.
The Land of National Parks
Saija is situated in the Land of National Parks. You can reach 4 unique Finnish National Parks and 1 recreational hiking area within a 1 to 1.5. hour drive f.e. by rental car. Well marked directions, parkings, trails and rest places makes it easy to orientate during an individual visit of the parks.