Saimaa Geopark Sites
Geology and Geoparks are growing trends in travel
The goal of Geoparks is sustainable economic development with the help of geotourism. As tourist attractions, geoparks can be compared to national parks and UNESCO world heritage sites, even though a Geopark is not a protected area. The Geopark logo tells travelers about high-quality local products worldwide.
Geoparks are tributes to local specialities
Geopark -info is always well researched, so many educational institutions can use Geoparks in their teaching. The goal is to increase knowledge and appreciation of local sights and their specialties, both locally and internationally.
All Geoparks are a part of the international Geopark network. Through the network all Geoparks and their local services gain international visibility. In Ruokolahti the Saimaa Geopark -signpost is located next to the local museum, near the wooden church.
Saimaa Geopark Sites in Ruokolahti
There are five Saimaa Geopark sites in Ruokolahti:
1) Huuha Beach (Salpausselkä II),
2) Kolmiköytinen Rock Painting,
3) Kummakivi Erratic Boulder,
4) Salpalinja Stone Defences at Syyspohja &
5) Ruokolahti Church Hill.
Huuhanranta - Huuha Beach
The 1.5 km long sandy beach of Huuhanranta is one of the longest in Saimaa and thus got the nickname "Saimaa Riviera".
Kolmiköytinen Rock Painting
The Kolmiköytinen rock painting was made 4,700-3,700 years ago.
Kummakivi Erratic Boulder
Kummakivi is a 7 x 5 x 4 meter erratic boulder that the last ice age dropped to rest on top of convex bedrock 11 500 years ago.
Salpalinja - Finland's Latch
Along the Salpalinja road (Salpalinjantie) & through Syyspohja, runs the 1200 km long World War II defense line, Salpalinja [Finland's Latch].
Ruokolahti Church Hill
Ruokolahti Church and the buildings around it are built on an ancient glacial river bed.
