In Hirvensalmi, a 1915 cross-shaped church, a bell tower dating from 1783 and an over-century-old alder avenue sit alongside concrete opportunities for exercise and excursions. A 12.3-kilometre mountain biking route runs through the village and along gravel roads; other activities range from orienteering to cross-country ski trails. When choosing a holiday apartment, start by deciding whether you want to focus your stay on local culture or activities elsewhere in the municipality.
Church, avenue and local history
Harmaakivikirkko is a cross-shaped church designed and built by Joosef Stenbäck. It was completed in 1915. Next to the church stands the bell tower dating from 1783, so the church and tower represent different periods of construction.
Tervaleppäkuja is a local attraction in the village centre. This avenue of black alders is considered the only one of its kind in Finland. Its trees are over 100 years old and more than 30 metres tall. Pitäjäntupa Museum features an exhibition about Ahti Karjalainen and a local history museum exhibition.
Karjalainen’s life story also has a connection to the municipality: Lepola, his birthplace, presents life in the village of Kuitula in past decades. This offers two distinct ways to learn about the area: an exhibition about Karjalainen at Pitäjäntupa and a portrayal of village life in the past at Lepola.
By bike, on foot or on the ski trails
The 12.3-kilometre mountain biking route follows paths in Hirvensalmi village, scenic gravel roads and the Pöyrynmäki mountain biking trail. It is considered easy and suitable for beginners. There is a rest stop along the route at the summit of Pöyrynmäki. As signage and conditions at the rest stop may change, it is advisable to check the latest information before setting out.
Another option is the MOBO orienteering course in the built-up area. It combines urban and terrain orienteering and starts at Elomaan School. Check in advance that the app and checkpoints are available during your visit.
There is a 2.5-kilometre lit fitness and cross-country ski trail in the central built-up area. The ski trail network near the centre is 10 kilometres long in total. The lit fitness and cross-country ski trail is 2.5 kilometres long, while the ski trail network near the centre covers 10 kilometres in total; cross-country skiing depends on seasonal conditions.
Beach and places to eat in town
Roosin ranta is a public municipal beach in Hirvensalmi’s central built-up area. Facilities and water conditions may change; check the latest information before visiting. Puulanaitta is also located in the centre. The restaurant serves lunch and coffee, as well as wine and beer. As its offerings may change, it is worth checking the latest information before your visit.
Excursions in the municipality
The municipality of Hirvensalmi has 127 lakes and 327 islands, offering plenty of opportunities for excursions. You can paddle along white-water stretches and row on the expansive lakes. There are 19 well-maintained landing sites on Lake Puulavesi, with fire pits, firewood and toilets.
Those interested in views and walking routes can also visit the Kalkkerovuori viewpoint along the Kalkkero Trail in the municipality. It lies 151 metres above sea level and offers views of Lake Suontee. Two separate nature and culture trails start at the Kissakoski factory site; they are 2.5 and 8.5 kilometres long, respectively. The industrial and power station environment at Kissakoski is considered an ensemble of architectural and historical significance and a destination in its own right.
Getting here and choosing where to stay
The nearest railway station, bus station and airport to Hirvensalmi are in Mikkeli, 35 kilometres away. Check transport information again before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Pieksämäki, Mikkeli, Savonlinna.
Return to the regional travel overview: South Savo.
