Eternal river - The River Trail of experiences

Ever since the Kokemäki river has flowed, I have been here. You can casually call me Eternal River. I am the spirit of this river, a kind of Satakunta miracle. I am like the Little Mermaid of Denmark, but really not like that at all. You will not find a more moving guide than me, I am really weird and absolutely unique, just like the people and river spirits in this area tend to be. I know the history of this river, its different estuaries, rocks, shores, and villages like the back of my hand. I am like this river, truly original, green-gold, iron-like, fast as a silver-sided fish, sometimes full of rebellious progress and the creaking of old bridges.

There are many stories about the name of the Kokemäki river. Perhaps you have already heard that the name of the river originally means experiencing a catch. In a way, you too are now experiencing the river, perhaps even looking for some kind of catch. That catch is a real experience, unforgettable moments and traveling along the free flow of the river.

The Kokemäenjoki valley seems designed for cycling, so let’s get the wheels turning, shall we?

First, I will tell you a little more about the river that is my entire life. The Kokemäenjoki valley was once covered by the ancient Yoldia Sea. It was then that I arrived here with the sea, awakening from the remnants of the Ice Age at Ripovuori. The primeval sea is the secret of life in the current river valley. Along my river, you will find birds, animals, and plants that know how to enjoy riverside life in different seasons.

The fields along the river bring before your eyes the atmosphere and scents of the countryside, both the pleasant and the more pungent ones. Along the village paths, you will meet the local characters, the quiet and the talkative ones alike. In the village cafes, you will hear the best local stories. My river takes you from village to village. You can stop by the riverbank to savour the moment. The history of the river stretches back through time. The pilgrimage route of one of the most important saints of the Nordic countries, Saint Olaf, is still found here. Royalty also enjoyed Satakunta. Duke John of Finland established the city of Pori in 1558 at the mouth of the Kokemäki river. When you sit by the river, I will whisper stories in your ear whenever you pause to listen.

Satakunta, born around my river, is a true treasure trove of food. Enjoy the local delicacies on your trip. The river provides food for people. In the past, fish were fried over a campfire in the evening twilight. Logs were also transported along the river. Log driving brought with it dance and song, which echoed along the river. If you listen carefully, you can still hear the songs of the log drivers in the wind. Then came the era of industrialization, dams and forges were built along the banks of the river. My powerful current was converted into energy. The ironworks were a bustling hub of activity. The manors housed the finer folk. My river was navigated in the land of blue and green gold. Many thoughts have crossed my bridges.

The river flows from bridge to bridge. I accompany you at every turn of the road and river. I am Eternal River, your guide to the whirlpools of the Kokemäenjoki valley. Welcome to the cycling trail that the river carries.

Let the river speak, sing, and carry: the Kokemäki river of experiences beckons you to experience!