Akkovaara family excursion - About devils and giants 2 km, Kajaani Finland

The parking place and starting point of this hike is situated approx. 15 km away from the city centre of Kajaani. 

From the car park follow the path marked in bluethat leads in one direction. The path is genty ascending for the first half a kilometer, then descendimg some 350  meters to the first crossing: there turn left, you are on the luolakierros (Cave path), marked red. The path leads you to the devil's field (Pirunpelto) becoming more and more demanding as you proceed. On the right you will face several metres high rock cliffs - an adventure park of nature. Finally, you will arrive to the Cave of the Giant (Jättiläisenluola). Wooden signs mark the sights. Right after the cave a short climbing tour awaits you - adventurous but harmless if you mind your steps. After a while you will reach the crest of the hill Akkovaara. Make sure to check out the fireplace, which lies a little bit below on your left. When heading back, follow the luolakierros signs again. You are on the loop and when reaching the crossing, take a left back to the P-place. The lenght of the whole route is  2 m. 

Suitable footwear is recommended. 

Snacks and drink is always recommended. 

From Kajaani city centre take the main road nr 5 (Mainuantie) ca. 3 km towards south until reaching the junction to Vuoreslahdentie, road nr 19033.
After driving 7,9 km, turn right, there is signage: Kouta-Vuores Retkipolut (Kouta-Vuores hiking trails). Follow the road for a ca. 2 kilometres until you reach the parking place.

Locals tell stories that a long time ago the devil himself has lived on the hill Akkovaara. He lived in the cave of the giant (Jättiläisluola) and terrified uninvited guests if they came to close to his dwelling. Proof of his anger is the devel's field, a collection of big rocks and stones, thrown there by the devil. 

The hill's name Akkovaara derives from the Sami language and translates as 'Grandmother's Hill'. Sami people came approx. 1000 years ago to the Kainuu region, bringing their language and rites with them. 

Geologically, Akkovaara is part of the 2 billion years old bedrock of the Finnish granitic zone. In the course of millions of years and during countless ice ages the crest of the hill has been carved smooth. The devil's field was formed ca. 10.000 years ago when the last glacial period retreated. To this day the stones and rocks are not covered with soil.

After visiting the caves and the devil's field make sure to have a barbecue at the campfire. Fire wood is provided. 

Try the tour with snowshoes during winter!