The company plans to rent cottages in Rehja and organise canoeing, fishing and recreational trips to the island. The Pyörte farm is planned as the starting point for the boat trips.
The City of Kajaani leases the Rehjansaari cottages and Pyörte farm to Luonnollisesti Oulujärvi Oy for three years. The Environmental Technical Committee decided on the matter on Wednesday 12 April. The contract includes an option for two additional years.
– We’ll see what the actual port of departure is, but we’re hoping for the Pyörte space. We need to get a proper pier here, because the current one is not in a condition to safely depart from.
The condition of the pier did not come as a surprise to the entrepreneur. According to Rikula, with a little renovation, the Pyörte facility can be made functional, and tourism on Rehjansaari will take off if people are offered the opportunity to go there.
– There are renovated cabins and the city is in the process of renovating the camping infrastructure. Rehja was once a popular destination. It is a good distance from the city and easily accessible by kayak or boat.
Naturally, Oulujärvi is also responsible for Metsähallitus’ Ärjänsaari operation. According to Rikula, after next summer we will see how much work it takes to run tourism on two islands. The entrepreneur has already received several cooperation offers.
– It is unrealistic to be able to do everything yourself. We will cooperate with those who are willing and hire more staff.
The city of Kajaani has tried to rent Rehjansaari in many ways in the past, but then without success. Now the city was looking for a new operator in Rehjaa, because the recreation and tourism use of the island is not developing as it is run by the municipality. A new tenant was sought to replace Pörte after the previous contract ended.
*The topic can be discussed until 11 pm on April 14.*