Understand

Once a land sculpted by the power of ice ages and their mighty glaciers, this breathtaking region known as Saariselkä showcases nature's remarkable transformation. What were once towering mountains have now been shaped into gentle rounded fells, reaching a modest height of 500m. Explore the sparsely forested valleys and marvel at the treeless summits, a sight that offers unparalleled serenity. Human activity in this remote area was scarce until 1865 when Konrad Planting discovered gold at the nearby Lutto River. The Finnish gold rush soon followed, leading to the staking of the first claim in Saariselkä in 1871. The mining company, Prospektor, recognized the potential and established its headquarters here in 1902, even creating a cart trail stretching 100 kilometers to Sodankylä. While the gold rush eventually faded, Saariselkä embraced its transformation into a captivating tourist attraction during the 1960s. Witness the growth of hotels, restaurants, and the installation of skiing lifts, all serving to enhance the visitor experience. The crowning moment was the declaration of the region, spanning from Saariselkä to the Russian border, as the UKK National Park in 1983. This paradise, once favored by former president Urho Kaleva Kekkonen for hunting, is now calling adventurous souls to explore its wonders. Discover Saariselkä, now a part of the municipality of Inari, which encompasses 7,700 inhabitants, including the fascinating Smi community, across a vast land spanning 17,321 square kilometers. Please note that most establishments in the area are closed during the month of October, so plan your visit accordingly!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

1. Porvoon kalakukko - This traditional Finnish dish is a delicious rye bread filled with salted herring, sour cream, onions, and boiled eggs. It's often enjoyed during Christmas time.

2. Lohikeitto - A comforting and flavorful fish soup made with broth, potatoes, onions, carrots, and diced fish, typically salmon or trout. It's often seasoned with fresh dill and served with a side of buttered bread.

3. Ostrobothnian pancakes (Blini) - These thin, crispy pancakes are a beloved snack in Finland, particularly in the region of Ostrobothnia. They're traditionally served with sweet toppings like jam, sugar, and whipped cream, or savory options like smoked salmon and sour cream.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing