Pello Travel Guide (Finnish Lapland/Northern Finland/Finland/Nordic countries/Europe)

Introduction to Pello

Nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland, Pello is a charming town that is often called the “reindeer capital of Finland.” This picturesque destination is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its beautiful natural scenery, exciting activities, and rich cultural heritage, Pello is a perfect place to experience the best of Northern Finland.

List of Places to Visit in Pello

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventure, Pello has something for everyone. Here are the top places to visit when exploring Pello:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lapland’s Deer Farm: Discover the fascinating world of reindeer by visiting this unique farm. You’ll get to feed, pet, and even take a sleigh ride with the friendly deer. There’s also a museum where you can learn more about the life and culture of the Sami people, who have been herding reindeer for centuries.
Kellokas Visitor Center: This modern visitor center is a great starting point for exploring the Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park. Here you’ll find exhibitions on the park’s flora, fauna, and geology, as well as a souvenir shop and a cafeteria.
Kädettömät Ravintola: This restaurant is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The name translates to “the handless restaurant,” and it is staffed entirely by deaf or hearing-impaired servers. Not only is the food excellent, but you’ll also get to support a worthy cause.

Natural Attractions of Pello: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park: This stunning national park is one of the most popular destinations in Finland. It covers over 1,000 square kilometers of mountainous terrain, and is home to diverse flora and fauna. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and even dog sledding.
Tornio River: The Tornio River is one of the best spots for fishing in Northern Europe. It’s home to salmon, trout, and grayling, and is also a great place to go kayaking or canoeing. The river is bordered by beautiful forests and tundra, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your adventure.
Matarangas Nature Trail: This easy hiking trail takes you through a beautiful forest and along the banks of the Matarangas River. Along the way, you’ll see stunning waterfalls, rapids, and peaceful pools.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pello

Pello is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are plenty of trails for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

Pallas-Yllästunturi Hiking Trail: This long-distance hiking trail covers 55 kilometers through the stunning national park. You’ll pass through quiet forests, high fells, and peaceful moors. The trail is well-marked, and there are several wilderness huts along the way where you can rest and spend the night.
Pello Biking Trail: This easy 26-kilometer bike ride takes you through the beautiful landscapes of Pello. Along the way, you’ll see pristine forests, quiet lakes, and picturesque countryside.

Best Things to Do in Pello: Activities and Tours

Pello is full of exciting activities and tours that provide unforgettable experiences. Here are some of the best things to do in Pello:

Reindeer Sledding: Experience the thrill of being pulled by a herd of reindeer through snowy forests. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with nature and learn about Sami culture.
Northern Lights Tour: Because Pello is located in the northern part of Finland, it’s one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. Join a tour to experience the stunning auroras dancing across the night sky.
White Water Rafting: The Tornio River is an excellent place for rafting. With experienced guides, you can navigate Class II to III rapids and enjoy the thrill of this adventurous sport.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pello

If you’re planning your visit to Pello, here’s a suggested week-long itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Pello, check into your accommodation, and explore the town.

Day 2: Visit Lapland’s Deer Farm, learn about Sami culture, and take a reindeer sleigh ride.

Day 3: Visit Kellokas Visitor Center and hike the Matarangas Nature Trail.

Day 4: Go biking on the Pello Biking Trail and enjoy a Finnish sauna in the evening.

Day 5: Join a fishing tour on the Tornio River or go kayaking or canoeing.

Day 6: Take a Northern Lights tour in the evening.

Day 7: Spend the day skiing or snowboarding in Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, and enjoy a farewell dinner.

Food and Drink Scene of Pello

Pello has a unique food and drink scene that is influenced by Sami culture. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Reindeer Meat: This is a staple of Finnish cuisine, and it’s easy to find in Pello. You can try it in different forms, such as sausages, stews, or grilled.
Kalakukko: This is a traditional Finnish pastry that’s filled with fish and other ingredients. It’s a perfect snack or lunch, and you can find it in local bakeries.

Local Beverages

Cloudberry Wine: This sweet and fruity wine is made from cloudberry, a local berry. You can find it in local liqueur stores or at farmers’ markets.
Lingonberry Juice: This refreshing drink is made from lingonberries, another local berry. It’s perfect with traditional Finnish dishes or on its own.

Where to Stay in Pello: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Despite being a small town, Pello has plenty of accommodation options for all budgets. Here are some top picks:

Hotel Pellonhovi: This cozy hotel is located in the town center and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant that serves local specialties.
Kurtin Tupa: This family-run guesthouse is located in a picturesque setting with beautiful views of the Tornio River. Rooms are simple but comfortable, and there’s a sauna on site.
Pello Camping and Cottage Resort: This resort offers a variety of accommodations, including camping cabins, cottages, and apartments. It’s a great option if you’re traveling with a family or a large group.

What to Buy in Pello: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you want to bring home some unique souvenirs from Pello, here are some ideas:

Reindeer Leather Products: Reindeer leather is a traditional material for clothing and accessories in Sami culture. You can find gloves, hats, bags, and other items made of reindeer leather in local shops and markets.
Lappish Jewelry: Lappish jewelry is inspired by Sami culture and nature. You can find beautiful earrings, necklaces, and bracelets made of silver, reindeer horn, and other materials.

Local Culture and Customs of Pello

Pello is located in the Lapland region, which has a unique culture and customs. Here are some things to keep in mind during your visit:

Respect Sami Culture: The Sami people have a rich cultural heritage, and their traditional way of life is based on reindeer herding. If you visit a reindeer farm or learn about Sami culture, be respectful and ask questions.
Use Sauna: Sauna is a very important part of Finnish culture, and it’s practiced in almost every household. If you get a chance, try a Finnish sauna and enjoy the relaxing benefits.

Best Time to Visit Pello

The best time to visit Pello depends on what you want to see and do. Here’s an overview:

Winter (December to March): This is the best time to experience winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and Northern Lights tours.
Spring (April to May): This is a great time to see the nature waking up from the winter sleep. The days get longer, and there’s a chance to see spring flowers and migratory birds.
Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season, and the weather is mild. You can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
Autumn (September to November): This is the season when Lappish nature is at its most colorful. You can see the forests turning orange, yellow, and red, and enjoy the crisp air.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pello

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Pello:

Do:

Greet locals with a smile and a “tervetuloa” (welcome).
Take off your shoes when entering someone’s home or a public sauna.
Try reindeer meat and other traditional foods.
Prepare for sudden weather changes, especially in winter.

Don’t:

Be late for appointments or tours. Punctuality is highly valued in Finnish culture.
Interrupt someone while they’re speaking, as Finns tend to listen carefully and talk less.
Leave trash in nature. Respect the environment and follow the “Leave no trace” principle.
Take photographs of the Sami people or culture without permission.

Safety and Health

Pello is a safe destination, but it’s always important to take necessary precautions. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in Pello

Wear proper clothing for the weather and the activity.
Follow the instructions of your guides during tours and activities.
Use caution when driving in winter conditions, as the roads can be slippery and the visibility low.

Health in Pello

Make sure you have adequate medical insurance and bring any necessary medication.
Drink only bottled or tap water that’s been properly boiled or treated.
Protect yourself from mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects that can transmit diseases.

Getting to Pello: Transportation Options and Logistics

Pello is located in Northern Finland, and there are several transportation options to reach the town:

Airports Near Pello

Kittilä Airport (KTT): This is the closest airport to Pello, located about 70 kilometers away. There are daily flights from Helsinki and other Finnish cities, as well as from some European destinations.
Rovaniemi Airport (RVN): This airport is located about 160 kilometers away from Pello and offers daily flights from Helsinki and other Finnish cities, as well as some international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Pello

Pello Bus Station: There are several daily bus services that connect Pello to towns and cities in the region and beyond. Timetables and tickets can be found on Matkahuolto website.

Other Options

Car Rental: If you’re planning a road trip to Northern Finland, you can rent a car in Helsinki or other major cities and drive to Pello. The journey takes about 10 hours.
Train: There are no direct trains to Pello, but you can take a train to Rovaniemi or Kemi and then continue by bus or rental car.

How to Get Around in Pello

Pello is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance. However, if you want to explore the surrounding areas, here are some transportation options:

Bicycle Rental: You can rent a bike from local businesses and explore the beautiful countryside on your own.
Car Rental: If you want more flexibility, you can rent a car and explore the region at your own pace.
Taxi: Taxis are available in Pello, but they can be expensive. Make sure to agree on the fare before getting in.

Where to Go Next from Pello: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore Northern Finland, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

Rovaniemi: This vibrant city is the home of Santa Claus and is located about 150 kilometers from Pello. It’s a great place to learn about Sami culture, try winter activities, and shop for souvenirs.
Kemi: This coastal city is famous for its snow castle and icebreaker cruises. It’s located about 130 kilometers from Pello.
Levi Ski Resort: This popular ski resort is located about 130 kilometers from Pello and offers a variety of winter activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.

Conclusion

Pello is a hidden gem in Northern Finland that offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re interested in hiking, biking, fishing, or exploring Sami culture, Pello has something to offer. Use this travel guide to plan your next adventure and experience the beauty of Lapland.

Pello Image Gallery

Miekojärvi

Timber driving competition on Tornionjoki