Pappilanniemi nature trail, Lappeenranta

Pappilanniemi offers pristine nature very close to heavy industry and the city. A spring birdwatching trip amidst the sea of blue anemones at Pappilanniemi is a breathtaking experience! The lush forest vegetation and shoreline rocks form a biologically rich community. Over 350 plant species have been observed in the over 30-hectare area. In spring, the vegetation is dominated by a sea of blue anemones. Also, the area is valuable for birdlife, especially species that require deadwood and cavity nesters. 

The smooth rocks on the northwest shores tell of the forces of the Ice Age. Today, they attract hikers with their packed lunches to the waterside. A fitness trail that the nature trail also follows circles the peninsula. The path is easy to walk.

NOTE! In the 2000s, Pappilanniemi has occasionally been highlighted because of ticks spreading tick-borne encephalitis and Lyme disease. Cautious outdoor enthusiasts protect themselves here with appropriate clothing if they leave the wide outdoor trail.

The path is maintained and cared for by the city of Lappeenranta.

The city of Lappeenranta opened a free boat rental service for crossing Pappilansalmi in September 2021. The approx. 150-meter-long rowing boat connection between Pappilanniemi and Pieni Lamposaari links the western and the under-construction eastern shoreline routes.

This crossing possibility also expands the area's cycling network, as it opens a new route besides the shoreline routes to the nature trails of Pappilanniemi and Mikonsaari as well as to the scenic route of Taipalsaari. At the site of the former Pappilansalmi ferry, at the end of Isännöitsijäntie, there are three rowing boats for rent. They can be used free of charge via an electronic reservation system.

The boats are intended only for crossing Pappilansalmi. More information and reservation instructions here.