The kayak boat house on the Lake Nuasjärvi side in Kajaani is located in Kuurna. The boat house is used by local kayakers, but anyone can start their kayaking journey from the shore, heading toward Lake Nuasjärvi or River Kajaaninjoki. There is a kayaking pier at the shore. The route to Rehjansaari Island passes through the narrow channel by Pukkisaari Island towards Purnunniemi and Rehjansaari Island. You can paddle around the island in either direction, or simply aim for a specific spot on the shore. You can land on various parts of the island, as there are docks all around. Most shores are rocky, but the swimming area on the eastern shore has a sandy bottom.
On Rehjansaari Island, camping in tents is free of charge in accordance with everyone’s rights, and the fire pits in the area are available for everyone to use. Firewood can be collected from the nearby sheds. Close to the lean-to shelters, there are also public outhouses (toilet paper not provided). Some of the island’s cabins are available for rent through Luonnollisesti Oulujärvi. The company manages Toivolahti, the island’s main building and its surrounding yard, as well as the rental cabins Puolukkarinne and Koskela. Other buildings on the island are under the city’s management and are not currently available for rent.
When camping overnight on the island, it’s a good idea to consider the location of rental cabins and other buildings when selecting a spot for your tent.
Safety
- The route is suitable for families and kayakers with less experience. But please note, that the open water area on Rehjanselkä may be windy and the waves may be sometimes high.
- There may be some motor boat traffic. Kayakers must give way to others.
- Remember to respect private properties. Most of the lake side shores have housing, so avoid paddling through private shores.
- Keep your life jacket on while kayaking and stay relatively near to the shoreline.
- It is always the safest to be with friends or in a group, especially when you don’t know the waters. Before heading out, it is advisable to check the weather forecast. Be aware of the direction and speed of wind when you are on open lake.
- Have extra clothing with you, if you need to change. Remember to have something to drink and eat on the trip.
- Take your phone with you in a waterproof bag.
Tips
From Rehjansaari Island you can continue north to Kuluntalahti (7 km) or south to Venäänniemi (2 km) or Karankalahti (9 km).
