#WITHTRUELOVE Deep roots by the Pyhäjoki River

#WITHTRUELOVE Deep roots by the Pyhäjoki River

Although I currently live in the Pyhäjoki village centre, my identity is strongly tied to the village of Pirttikoski. Looking back on the summers of my childhood, the first thing that comes to mind is playing and swimming in the river. We were free to enjoy ourselves how we liked. No adults had the time to come watch over us, with all the work to be done on the fields or in the cowshed. We, too, took part in the work tasks since early childhood, but whenever we had a moment to spare, we went to the river to swim – or just play and have fun.

The river is what still draws me to the area. The allure never fades despite the transitions from warm summer days, colourful autumn nights, clear wintry weather to springtime. The atmosphere by the river never stays the same for long. The mind stays calm witnessing the peaceful movement of the water and the colours of the sky reflected on its surface. And the rapids have an appeal of their own.

Experience life on the river and its banks from near and far

The river is always full of life. You can watch fish dart around in the water and observe birds, such as swans, mallards or other weary travellers from afar, nesting on the banks. The best way to experience the river is to get on it with a row boat, canoe or SUP board. In the winter, the river is ideal for skiing and hiking. The tracks criss-crossing on the snow reveal that the area is full of all manner of wildlife. In the spring, you can experience the awesome power of nature as the ice breaks and is carried away by the strengthening current. You can also see migratory birds and new leaves sprouting from tree branches. In the autumn, the water reflects the wonderful colours of nature, multiplying their beauty.

Following the river from the village centre home to Pirttikoski

The roads on the banks of Pyhäjoki River are ideal for observing life and seasonal changes in the environment. They are perfect for hiking and biking. You can follow the northern bank from the village centre to Pirttikoski and return along the southern bank. This amounts to about 18 km of travel. Those looking for a longer route can continue along the river from Pyynpuho all the way to Hellaamäki. In the summer, the swimming spot by the Kuusiniemi bridge in Pirttikoski provides a wonderful place to rest and relax. You can take a swim, roast some sausages on an open fire or use the eco-toilets. You can also sit in the swing and simply enjoy the river flowing by. Should you want to get on the river itself, a boat provided by the village association is available at the beach. You can hop in it and row from the Antin koski rapids to the Tirilän koski rapids to, once again, gain an entirely new perspective on the river.

Flowing beauty at all hours through the seasons

Pyhäjoki is so much more than just any river. It cuts through the Pirttikoski village, with a small island at the heart of the village centre, and continues on its path towards the sea. It is a sight to be experienced regardless of the season – a sight that can also demonstrate its devastating power during flood season. The river is a monument to the beauty of nature that can be enjoyed at all hours and in all seasons, with the proper respect to the environment and the flowing waters.

#withtruelove

Tiina

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