The principles of sustainable use of Vuoksi

Move sustainably in Vuok and its surroundings

• Take advantage of the possibilities of local transport when moving around the area.
• Prefer walking with muscle power; you get physical fitness and get closer to nature. You can use city bikes to get around Imatra, you can also rent bicycles, boats and other means of movement from local entrepreneurs.
• Walk on prepared routes and paths, you save the surrounding nature from wear and tear.
• Take advantage of the ready-made boat ramps and fishing piers in Vuok. If you need extra power to move with Vuo, prefer electric motors.

Take care of the environment, nature will thank you!

• Do not throw litter on land or water; clean your own and, if necessary, pick up other people's trash and take the trash to the appropriate eco-points after the trip.
• Camp and make a fire only in those reserved areas. Camping is not allowed in the urban area.
• Note the vegetation; do not damage trees or other vegetation and do not pick protected plants. There are rare plants especially in the nature reserves along the Vuoksi river and along the nature trails.
• You don't use nature or an urban area as a toilet.
• Observe the animals from a sufficient distance, do not approach the animal or the animal's nest.

Respect other cyclists and local culture

• Take into account other pedestrians enjoying nature using different means; some people want to walk slowly enjoying the peace of nature, others go fast on a mountain bike.
• Keep pets on a leash, especially in nature reserves, residential areas and marked nature trails.
• You don't move in the yards of houses and cottages, farms or other private areas.
• Avoid unnecessary noise in nature.
• Favor local products and places to visit and use local guides; this way you see and experience much more.

Get to know Imatra by cycling and hiking

You can get to know Imatra easily and environmentally friendly by bike and hiking. Versatile nature, hiking and cycling routes lead to interesting natural and cultural sites along the banks of Vuoksi and Saimaa. City bikes are also available, their use requires downloading an app to your phone. There are many things to see in Imatra's natural and cultural attractions!

city ​​bike

Imatran Nature Routes and Paths

Vuoksi cultural route

Cycling in Imatra

Stop by the summer markets and local events

Enjoy the unhurried Karelian atmosphere of the summer markets and get to know the local products. Market coffees are always worth enjoying. It's also worth visiting local events - you can get involved in the local way of life there

Imatra events

Markets in Imatra

Find and recycle

Recycling and reuse saves natural resources. You never know what finds you will find at Imatra's numerous flea markets. It's worth getting to know!

Flea markets and recycling

Spend a summer day at the beaches, a winter day take a dip in the open air and on the slopes

A summer day can be spent at Imatra's public swimming beaches. In winter, you can also take a dip in Vuoki from the Imatra swimming pool. In winter, you should also test the slopes and winter trails.

Swimming beaches

Imatra swimming hall

Tracks and winter trails

To the playground with the whole family

The smallest of the family - and why not the bigger ones - can have fun at the playgrounds, which are several in different parts of the city.

Imatra's playgrounds

Watch the birds at Vuok

Many migratory birds stop at Vuoll in spring and autumn. There is also something to see in Vuos in winter, as it is the largest water area in South Karelia that remains frozen all year round. Good observation points can be found in several places along Vuoksi.

South Karelia Ornithological Association

Bird locations on the map

Working out around Vuokse

You can also get around Vuokse by visiting different outdoor sports venues. Along with fitness equipment, there is also a Parkour park for skateboarders and roller skaters.

Imatra's outdoor sports parks

Fish in Vuok

Vuoksi is a well-known salmon river, where you can fish in different ways in summer and winter. There is plenty to experience in Vuos both for experienced fishermen and for those who are new to the hobby. If necessary, all hunting equipment and guidance to the fishing spots can be obtained on site. When you go to Vuoksi, note that the flow of Vuoksi varies due to the power plants. Nature thanks you when you don't leave fishing lines or other fishing equipment in nature where animals can get stuck.

Fishing in Vuok

Check out local services

Are you interested in cruising, floating or sauna in the middle of Vuoksi? What about jet skiing or wakeboarding? Do you want to admire the sunset on Vuoksi's beach terrace while enjoying local delicacies? Or get tips from local newcomers? Get to know the community's own services, there is something for everyone. At the same time, you can get to know local life deeper than the surface.

Services at Imatra

Be responsible also in social media and online. Encourage others to act responsibly with your wonderful pictures.