Paddling route to Honkinen Island on Lake Lammasjärvi

From Kuhmo’s city center, you can paddle across Lake Lammasjärvi in many directions. An overnight paddling trip to the Honkinen shelter (kota) is a memorable experience. Midway, you’ll have a chance to explore Harakkasaari Island.

Lammasjärvi is a long, southeast–northwest oriented lake located in the heart of Kuhmo. The northwestern part of the lake, just north of the city center, is more fragmented, consisting of several smaller open waters. In contrast, the southeastern part forms a long, continuous expanse of open water.

In the middle of this long lake stretch lies the elongated island of Honkinen. The island features an excellent resting spot: Honkinen kota, a traditional shelter available to hikers and paddlers year-round. It’s also suitable for overnight stays with camping gear.

Honkinen Island is about 12 kilometers from the Kuhmo center by water, and about 6 kilometers from Kalevala Beach. The round-trip distance is approximately 24 kilometers.

An alternative starting point is at the guest pier behind the Winter War Museum at Kalevala Beach.

Along the way, Hotel Kalevala, located on the lakefront, also offers restaurant services.

This route is suitable for paddlers with some prior experience, but in good summer weather, it is also appropriate for beginners or as a family paddling destination.