The nature information hut provides information on the versatile nature of Siikalahti Wetland Nature Reserve. The area's bird species are those that live at waters edge, amongst reeds, in shore meadows, amongst shrubs and in herb-rich forests. The World Wildlife Fund had Siikalahti Nature Information Hut built in 1981 and its management was taken over by Metsähallitus in 1993.
Opening Hours
Siikalahti Nature Information Hut is annually open in April-October.
There are no guide services organised by Metsähallitus.
Groups are asked to book the guide in advance at Ornio (ornio.net).
Entrance
There is no entrance fee to the nature information hut.
Contact Information
Street Address: Siikalahti Nature Information Hut, Kaukolantie, Parikkala, Finland
Postal Address: Siikalahti Nature Information Hut, Metsähallitus, Akselinkatu 8, 57130 Savonlinna, Finland
Tel. int. Saimaa Nature Centre Riihisaari, +358 (0)206 39 5929
When Siikalahti Nature Information is closed, visitors can get information on the area from Saimaa Nature Centre Riihisaari. The nature information hut is managed by Metsähallitus.
Directions
By Car
Take main road 6 (running between Lappeenranta - Joensuu) to Parikkala and turn towards Kaukola. There is a parking area on this road from where there is a trail to Siikalahti Nature Information Hut and the bird watching tower. The walk from the parking area to the nature information hut is 200 m.
By Public Transportation
Siikalahti is located approximately 3 km from the centre of Parikkala Village. Visitors can get to Parikkala by coach (matkahuolto.fi) or by train (vr.fi).
Services
- Information on preservation of bird wetland in Siikalahti Nature Reserve and birds seen in the area.
- Group tours for a fee. Tours can be reserved at Ornio (ornio.net).
Permanent Exhibition
The permanent exhibition at Siikalahti Nature Information Hut is definitely worth seeing. The exhibition features the area's versatile bird life and vegetation. There is a pictured calendar, which displays when birds can be seen in the area. The exhibition also features research and conservation in the area. Siikalahti is constantly in a state of change. This is evident from the aerial photos on show. Visitors are brought into the world of birdwatchers in an interesting way.
The Grounds
- In the vicinity of the nature information hut visitors will find a campfire site and camping tables. Those spots are ideal for eating packed lunches. Lighting campfires is forbidden when there is a forest fire warning in effect.
Water is available from the well behind the nature information hut. During a dry summer, anticipate that there may not be any water in the well.