The natural environment around Tohmajärvi is a real treasure trove for the nature lover. Influenced by its situation in the Lake Ladoga basin, there is a large diversity of plant and animal life. The Tohmajärvi woodlands abound with many characteristically eastern species. There are several protected areas of woodland and marshes.

For birdwatchers the internationally recognized area of Sääperi Lake and marshland in Värtsilä are a favourite. Equally well known are Peijonniemenlahti and Uudenkylänlampi. The Jänisjoki River and Trail (Jänispolku) offer endless opportunities to see and experience our local flora and fauna. Other marked trails in the area are Aconitum-Polku (Nature Trail) in Kirkkoniemi, Kemien Luontopolku (Nature Trail) in Tohmajärvi, Saario Maisemapolku (Scenery Trail) and for wonderful views of the Värtsilä valley try the Värtsintaival in Patsola (Nature Trail).

For more information and maps and brochures for the Nature trails:
Tohmajärvi Matkapalvelu (Travel Agency), Kirkkokatu 1.

This protected woodland at Piilovaara is part of the Aconitum-Polku (Nature Trail) where you will also get to know the historical landscape of the Kirkkoniemí headland.

Monkshood (Aconitum) is a striking, almost two metre tall, summer flowering plant.(NB: This plant is very poisonous) Piilovaara Ukonhattulehto is the largest concentration of Monkshood in Finland.

Along the trail you will discover Kirkkoniemi's heritage, lands and rich flora and fauna. The trail is 6 km long but can easily be broken up into shorter sections. There are 3 starting places; the Car Park by the church, (Kirkkotie 590), the Old Cemetery and Turusenniemi, where there is a fireplace, swimming place and a well.

Kemien Luontopolku is a demanding 6km trail, up and downhill, offering wonderful views of the landscape. A perfect opportunity to become acquainted with the varied forms of plant and birdlife around Tohmajärvi. The starting point is by the Keski-Karjalan musiikkiopisto (Central Carelian Music College) not far from the town centre at Kirkkotie 18

Jänispolku (Nature Trail)

A 38km trail following the Jänisjoki river valley from Vatala to Värtsilä. It follows the river closely between Kattilakoski and Vääräkoski. There are a number of bivouac camps provided along the route.

Peijonniemenlahden lintutorni (Bird watching Tower)

A popular nesting and stop over place for migratory birds. The bay and its surroundings is a must for birdwatchers. The bird tower can be reached from Kirkkotie on the way down to Kirkkoniemi.

A river of many moods; the scenery changes from lush undergrowth to wilderness forest. It offers the peace and solitude of the deep forest and a bit of white water excitement through the rapids. On the river banks you will find a series of landing places where there are fireplaces, bivouac shelters and latrines.

Fishing permits can be bought at the Neste Service Station in Tohmajärvi tel: (013) 226 502

Canoe and Boat hire at Ellilä Matkailutila mobile: (050) 517 7854 or Sinilintu Hotel, Värtsilä. tel: (013) 285 481

Sääperi Lake

Situated near the Finnish-Russian border zone in Värtsilä, Sääperi Lake is part of the state conservation program. It is a Suomen Natura 2000 designated area, documented in the "Nature complex of Värtsilä valley"

Sääperi lake is an internationally renowned bird lake and fourth most significant in North Carelia. The lake and its surrounding area is an important nesting site for a large number of species including Slavonian Grebe and Bittern. This area also contains one of Finland’s densest populations of Corncrake. It is a very important migratory stopover and can best be appreciated from the bird tower on the South-western shore. There is a well signposted path and boardwalk to the tower from Värtsilä village

Uudenkylänlampi

A complex of marsh and water meadows bordering Jänisjoki river in the centre of Värtsilä village. Part of a regional conservation program. This water is well known among birdwatchers as an important nesting area for many species, including Bittern, Water Rail and Marsh Harrier. It is an important stopover and grazing for migratory birds which can be seen to full advantage during the springtime.