This dive site, Kaatialan Luohos, is a former open-pit quarry located in Kuortane Lentilä, Finland. Active from 1942 to 1968, it was a significant source for feldspar and quartz. The quarry holds historical importance as the site where the Kaatiaite mineral was first discovered and named. Divers exploring the submerged quarry can navigate along its walls and bottom, encountering unique rock formations and the intriguing possibility of finding remaining gemstones and geological specimens from its mining past.
As an inland freshwater quarry, Kaatialan Luohos does not host marine animals or vibrant coral reefs. Instead, divers may encounter typical Finnish freshwater fish species such as perch and pike, along with various aquatic plants that have colonized the submerged areas. The primary allure of this site lies in its geological landscape and its historical significance for mineral hunting, rather than diverse aquatic biodiversity.
The best time to visit this site is generally during the warmer summer months for slightly more comfortable diving conditions, though cold water diving equipment is essential year-round due to the low water temperatures. Divers should be prepared for potentially variable visibility, common in quarry environments. It offers a unique experience for those interested in geology, history, and a distinct form of underwater exploration. The site's depth makes it suitable for freediving training.
