Get to know Kannonkoski through its diverse local attractions: the functionalist church, the shores of Lake Kivijärvi, historic sites and natural attractions. When planning, it is also helpful to distinguish between the town and destinations elsewhere in the municipality. This lets you plan your days around your interests—whether architecture and local history or beach and nature experiences.
The Church and Local History
Kannonkoski Church is an important example of Finland’s early functionalist church architecture; its surroundings are also of national significance. The architecture gives the town a distinctive cultural landmark.
Kannonsaha is another part of the area’s history. Founded in 1835, the commercial sawmill was the largest in northern Central Finland; a thriving village community grew up around it. A short walking path leads to the Kannonsaha Monument from the signposted entrance on Saarijärventie.
Kannonkoski’s local history collection is housed in an old log barn in Nuottala, near the harbour. Its holdings consist mainly of items related to farming and household life. Visits are possible by appointment. The collection offers a distinctive insight into local history, while the church and monument provide other points of interest for culture enthusiasts, each with its own character.
Beaches and the Harbour on Lake Kivijärvi
Nuottala Beach is located by Kannonkoski Harbour, on the shore of Lake Kivijärvi in Hangaslahti. Fishing and boating are possible in the harbour area. The beach and harbour activities are part of the same named stretch of shoreline.
Kannonkoski is also home to the sandy beaches of Lake Kivijärvi, some of which are designated as nature reserves. Isohiekka lies in northern Kannonkoski, on the edge of a nature reserve, and has a wide sandy beach. You can compare different landscapes here: the harbour and beach area at Nuottala and the broad beach at Isohiekka.
Nature Destinations and Activities
Peikonpesä is a cave on Kiihkovuori. From the recommended starting point at Vartiolinna, it can be reached via a varied route. The summit area of Kiihkovuori offers views of Lake Kivijärvi. The cave and the viewpoint offer two different nature experiences on the same mountain, without requiring a particular route.
Tapulikivet is a striking natural rock formation in Lakosyvänmaa, associated with local lore. Alongside the rock formation itself, these stories give the site a connection to local traditions. Those who enjoy combining nature destinations with regional stories will find a different focus here than along the shores of Lake Kivijärvi.
Another destination in the municipality is Piispala, a nature, sports and youth tourism centre on the shore of Lake Kivijärvi in Piispalankylä. It is not in the centre of Kannonkoski. Its nature and adventure activities include a 12-metre-high climbing tower. As the availability of individual activities may vary, we recommend checking the specific programme before making plans.
An easy-to-walk nature trail runs through the landscapes of Piispala and Öijänniemi, also introducing visitors to the nature of Kannonkoski. Check the condition of the trail before your visit. On Lintusaari, you can fish, walk along the trails, sit by the shore and listen to the island’s natural sounds. There is a choice of both active pursuits and peaceful time by the water.
Getting Here and Planning Your Stay
From Helsinki and Oulu, the drive follows Highway 4 or E75 to Viitasaari, then the Blue Road 77 and Highway 648 to the centre of Kannonkoski. Check current road conditions before setting out.
Use your interests as a guide when choosing accommodation: the church and local history collection offer culture and local history, Nuottala and Isohiekka feature different beach and shoreline landscapes, and Kiihkovuori and Tapulikivet are nature destinations. If you plan to visit Piispala, bear in mind that it is in the municipality and not in the town centre.
Discover more destinations: Keuruu, Kinkomaa, Oulunsalo, Lannevesi, Laukaa, Muhola, Joutsa, Luhanka
For the broader travel overview: Central Finland.
