At just over 87 kilometres, Jaakko’s Loop is a scenic and moderately hilly route that runs along the shores of Lake Saimaa and through rural landscapes. It’s the favourite training route of professional cyclist Jaakko Hänninen. The route starts at Imatra railway station and follows bike paths through the Vuoksenniska district towards Ruokolahti. Along the way, you cross the dam near the Stora Enso mill and get your first glimpses of Lake Saimaa. The hilly section through Salosaari adds variety, and after crossing Suikkalansalmi, riders can choose their direction around Äitsaari Island. The loop around Äitsaari runs on smooth asphalt and passes through classic South Karelian countryside: grazing cows, open fields, and forest sections. The return to Imatra takes you past the historic Ruokolahti church hill. The final stretch follows the Vuoksi River back to the railway station, passing the iconic Imatrankoski Rapids and the historic Valtionhotelli Hotel
