Rokansaari island esker terrain

The Rokansaari esker island is part of a 150km long fragmented stretch of esker which begins in Pieksämäki and ends at the tip of Kyläniemi near Niittylahti-Härkkimyksenhiekka. The Rokansaari area emerged from underneath the continental ice sheet 11,500-11,400 years ago, when the area was lapped by the waters of the Saimaa ice lakes. Nowadays the Rokansaari landscape is dominated by kettle ponds and various shore features, such as beach banks and ridges formed during Saimaa’s various stages. Traces of human history left on the island include trenches dug into the sandy ground and a Stone-Age dwelling site.

The Rokansaari recreation area is owned by the Saimaa Association for Recreation Areas. Cottage renters have access to rowing boats for rowing on to the island. Others are not allowed to take rowing boats, even for a short visit to Rokansaari. On the shore of the excursion harbor you will find a Saimaa Geopark sign, which tells you about the area’s geology and island services, as well as visitor’s etiquette.

NOTE: The path marked on the map, which runs along the western shore of the island to the southern tip, MUST NOT BE USED! The path runs through private gardens and is strictly off-limits. There are also other private yards on the island where you must respect the privacy of your home, i.e. no trespassing is allowed

Image: Sanna Poutamo/ Saimaan virkistysalueyhdistys ry