Kerma: Rapids, Canal and Summer Theatre

In Kerma, lively waters meet culture on the water: Kermankoski is a multi-channel stretch of rapids on the Heinävesi Route, while at the Kerman Canal you can watch boats passing through the locks and observe varying water levels. There is also the Kermankoski Summer Theatre. These different highlights give your trip a clear direction: would you like to experience the rapids above all, explore the canal landscape, or plan an evening of culture? This question can also help you choose the right focus for your stay when looking for a holiday rental in Kerma.

Kermankoski: Water in Several Channels

The Kermankoski rapids are not a single, uniform watercourse, but a multi-channel stretch. A footbridge beside the rapids offers a place to observe the spray, whirlpools and different channels. If you are interested in the shapes and movements of the water, you can let your gaze move between these features rather than heading for just one spot.

Kermankoski is also an option for active days: the rapids offer kayakers a suitable challenge on a safe scale. They also attract anglers who specialize in fishing in rapids. These are different ways of engaging with the same stretch of water. If you are travelling with several people, you can plan around these interests without every shared activity having to be the same.

At the Kerman Canal: Locks and Historic Structures

The Kerman Canal is worth a stop for boaters, cyclists and passers-by. Its character comes from green banks, historic canal structures and the summertime atmosphere of boat traffic. You can watch boats passing through the locks and observe changes in the water level. A preserved old bridge and a lockkeeper’s house from the early 20th century add to the picture of the canal structures; the canal also has a well-maintained park.

In summer, the traditional Heinävesi steamboat also stops at the Kerman Canal. Passengers can board or disembark there. This means the canal can be seen not only as a place to watch boat traffic, but also as a stop on the steamboat’s route. If you are especially interested in waterways, locks and historic structures, this offers a different focus from kayaking or fishing in the rapids.

Summer Theatre on the Kermankoski Stage

The Kermankoski Summer Theatre is located on the Kermankoski stage. The stage was built in 1959 on a small island between two rapids. It lies between the rapids and Lake Kermajärvi, at the heart of a national landscape. The setting thus combines a theatrical backdrop with a striking waterscape.

The summer theatre is known for its high-quality musical theatre performances; its programme also features leading performers in Finnish folk dance. During the intervals, refreshments are available at four different coffee stands. If you are looking for a cultural highlight in Kerma in addition to observing nature, this gives you a specific reason to plan your trip around a performance. The theatre productions and Finnish folk dance programme offer two different cultural experiences.

A Stay with Different Highlights

When choosing a holiday rental in Kerma, your own ideas about what you want from your stay can also play a part alongside the places you plan to visit.

Kermanvirranranta is a campsite near Kermankoski with a sauna, barbecue shelter, pitches for caravans and cars, tent pitches, a guest jetty and a boat launch ramp. In Kerma, Kermanvirranranta is also designated as a beach volleyball court. This gives the place several stated uses, without implying anything about the facilities or services at other accommodation.

For an overview of the wider area: Heinävesi.