Lieksa provides great variety of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Active nature lovers will head for Koli National Park and for the marked trails of Ruunaa hiking area and Patvinsuo National Park. The paddler’s dream is located in the river Jongunjoki or the rapids of Ruunaa - the latter of which also has guide services and equipment available. The lake Pielinen offers outstanding fishing waters, as do the Ruunaa rapids and small woodland ponds. The peace-loving nature observer can spend a night out in a wildlife observation cabin in Uuronlampi and observe bears or wolverines in their natural environment.

Shooting the Ruunaa Rapids in either a wooden boat or a rubber raft is and has been a must for every visitor. Delicious wilderness lunches and the sweet heat of a smoke sauna are a great finish to an action-filled day. An experience to try as well is relaxing while floating in a rescue suit in cool water. The Ruunaa Outdoor Centre provides versatile services in summer. Families with children may spend their day in the countryside experience farmstead of PikkuKili exploring exotic Finnish animals and fishing from a small pond. Children’s Day in the Pielinen Museum allows families to dive into the fairytale-filled past of the locality.

Timeless wooden sculptures by Eva Ryynänen are on display in Paateri, her artist's residence, and historical buildings may be explored in the Pielinen Museum. You can also hire a multilingual guide to make the most out of your visit.