A classic for paddlers from Kajaani – a trip to Rehja. The route from the city center around Rehjansaari is suitable as a day trip destination, but is also very good for overnight trips.
The Kajaani Nuasjärvi side paddling stable is located in Kuurna. The paddling stable is for local paddlers, but anyone can start paddling from the shore towards Nuasjärvi or the Kajaani River. There is a paddling dock at the shore.
The route to Rehjansaari goes through a narrow passage of Pukkisaari towards Purnuniemi and Rehja. You can circle the island in both directions, or just aim for some shore.
You can land on different parts of the island, as there are docks all around. Most shores are rocky, but the eastern shore beach has a sandy bottom.
On Rehjansaari you can camp in tents for free under everyman's rights, and the campfire sites in the area are freely available to everyone. You can get firewood for campfires from wood sheds nearby. Near the Kota huts, there are also public outhouses (no toilet paper).
Some of the island's cottages are for rent, Naturally Oulujärvi. The company is responsible for Toivola, the main building of the island with its yard area, as well as the rental of Puolukkarinne and Koskela cottages. The other buildings on the island are managed by the city and are not currently for rent. When staying overnight on the island, consider the location of rental cottages and other buildings when choosing a tent site.
Author’s recommendation
The route is suitable for an overnight trip.
You can also start the trip from the Petäisenniska paddling dock.
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Show elevation profileSafety information
- The route is suitable for less experienced paddlers as well as family trips. However, note that Rehjanselkä is a wind-sensitive area, and waves can rise high.
- In summer, there can be some motorboat traffic. Paddlers should yield to other water traffic.
- Remember that a large part of the shores are inhabited, so respect privacy – do not paddle right along the shoreline.
- Wear life jackets while paddling and preferably paddle near the shore.
- It is safest to be on the water with a friend or group, especially if you don't know the water area. Before paddling, it is good to check weather forecasts. Pay attention to wind direction and strength on open lakes.
- Bring spare clothes as well as snacks and drinks.
- Take your phone with you in a waterproof package.
Tips and suggestions
From Rehjansaari, you can continue north to Kuluntalahti (7 km) or south towards Venäänniemi (2 km) or Karankalahti (9 km).
Roadbook
It is about three kilometers from Kuurna to Rehjansaari.
From the shore of Kuurna's paddling stable, the route first heads towards Pukkisaari, after which it continues towards the shore of Purnuniemi and further to Rehjansaari.
You can circle the island in both directions – base your decision on the wind direction and speed. After paddling around Rehja, continue along the same shore back towards your starting point.
The highlight of the route is the shallow water passage between two islands, which together form one Pukkisaari. Watch out for stones beneath the surface. The small pond between the islands is a very idyllic and photogenic spot. From here, you follow the shoreline back to your starting point.
Kuurna kajak boat house
Kesäniemen melontalaituri ja rantautumispaikka, Kajaani
Pyörteen tila / Rehjansaari, Naturally Lake Oulujärvi, Kajaani
Petäisenniska fire place
Rehjansaaren Sosiaalistenniemen keittokatos, Kajaani
Rehjansaaren Sosiaalistenniemen tulentekopaikka, Kajaani
Rehjansaaren Kuuselan puolikota, Kajaani
Rehjansaaren Kuuselan tulentekopaikka, Kajaani
Rehjansaaren Telkännokan puolikota, Kajaani
Rehjansaaren uimaranta ja keittokatos, Kajaani
Rehjansaaren laavu, Kajaani
Rehjansaaren Kummelinniemen keittokatos, Kajaani
Public transport
No public transport.
Get Timetable to destination
Directions
The departure point, the Paddling Stable address is Kuurnantie 97-99, 87250 Kajaani.
Parking
Free parking spaces are available at the end of the gravel road, next to the paddling stable.
Coordinates
Book recommendation by the author
Author’s map recommendations
Equipment
Passable near the shore by canoe, kayak, and rowboat. In many places, the route is shallow far from the shore.
Localization
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.

User Questions