Virolahti Kurkela

The tower overlooks the south-eastern border to river Vaalimaanjoki and Russia behind it. Kurkela is the go-to place in Finland, if you’re after black stork, black kite and greater spotted eagle, all nesting on the other side of the border. The tower is a great place for observing the migration of Arctic waterfowl, and especially in autumn, that of the birds of prey.

The tower has one open platform. It was build in 1999.

Driving directions: Turn south from main road 7 to Hämeenkylä. Continue for 6km and turn left to a parking area after the Kiisjärvi bridge. Coordinates: 6717685:3545885.

Virolahti, Kurkela