On the shores of Lake Yövesi, Astuvansalmi hosts the largest prehistoric rock painting complex in the Nordic countries. Painted on a majestic rock face thousands of years ago, the figures tell stories of hunter-gatherers’ life, beliefs, and the surrounding nature.
Set out on a journey to a place where ancient art blends seamlessly with the landscape. Discover Astuvan Ukko, “the old man of Astuva”, the messages of our ancestors, and the mystique of Lake Yövesi!
Explore the Nordic region’s largest rock art site and gain insight into the lives and culture of Stone Age hunter-gatherers. Approaching by boat reveals the cliff’s awe-inspiring “divine profile” in all its glory.
July–August
Departures at 11 am and 2 pm
RIB boat cruise to the Astuvansalmi Rock Paintings from Ristiina
Duration: approx. 2 hours
Departure point: Kirkonranta harbour pier, Brahentie 55 A, Ristiina
July–August
Departures at 11 am and 2 pm
RIB boat cruise to the Astuvansalmi Rock Paintings from Ristiina
Duration: approx. 2 hours
Departure point: Kirkonranta harbour pier, Brahentie 55 A, Ristiina
July–August
Departures at 11 am and 2 pm
RIB boat cruise to the Astuvansalmi Rock Paintings from Ristiina
Duration: approx. 2 hours
Departure point: Kirkonranta harbour pier, Brahentie 55 A, Ristiina
21 June, 28 June, 5 July, 12 July and 2 August
Departure and return: 4:45 pm, Varkaantaipale Canal (Canal Restaurant pier)
Cruise route: Varkaantaipale–Astuvansalmi–Varkaantaipale
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Enquiries:
Aino Saimaa
sales@ainosaimaa.fi
+358 40 705 8043
(May) June–September (October)
Duration: 2 hours, starting time by arrangement
Departure point: Kallioniemi Harbour, Kallioniementie 106, 52360 Mikkeli
31 July 2026
Cruise to Astuvansalmi Rock Paintings on board M/S Aino
Time: Time: 1:15 pm–3:30 pm
Departure and return: Varkaantaipale canal restaurant pier, Suurlahdentie 1671, 52360 Someenjärvi
8 July, 9 July, 10 July, 26 July, 29 July and 30 July
Departure and return: 1:15 pm, Varkaantaipale Canal (canal restaurant pier)
Cruise route: Varkaantaipale–Astuvansalmi–Varkaantaipale
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Explore Astuvansalmi and the Lake Yövesi area through the blogs linked below.