Sevettijärvi Travel Guide

Discover the best of Sevettijärvi, Finland with this comprehensive travel guide that covers the town's culture, attractions, food, and transportation options.


Introduction to Sevettijärvi

Sevettijärvi is a must-visit destination located in the northern part of Finland, in Lapland. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty, unspoiled landscapes, rich culture, and fascinating history. It’s the perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and culture enthusiasts alike. In this guide, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of the top places to visit, things to do, and places to stay in Sevettijärvi.

List of Places to Visit in Sevettijärvi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sevettijärvi has a rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years. There are numerous museums and historical places that showcase the town’s history and culture. Some of the most popular include:

  • Sevettijärvi Church: This stunning wooden church is one of the oldest in Lapland, and it’s an excellent example of traditional Finnish architecture.
  • Sevettijärvi Museum: The museum is located in the town’s old schoolhouse and features a collection of artifacts and exhibits that represent the culture and history of the area.
  • Sevettijärvi War Memorial: The war memorial is dedicated to those who lost their lives in the Second World War.

Natural Attractions of Sevettijärvi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sevettijärvi is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are many natural attractions to explore. Some of the most popular include:

  • Sevettijärvi Lake: This beautiful lake is surrounded by scenic forests and is perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating.
  • Riisitunturi National Park: The national park is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in Lapland, including old-growth forests, rugged hills, and crystal-clear streams.
  • Kaamanen Fell: This imposing fell is a popular spot for hiking, and it offers some of the best views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Pyhäkero Fell: This spectacular fell is a perfect destination for those who want to experience Finnish Lapland’s wilderness and rugged nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sevettijärvi

Sevettijärvi is an ideal destination for hikers and bikers. There are many trails that lead through beautiful forests, lakes, and mountains. Some of the most popular hiking and biking routes in Sevettijärvi include:

  • The Sevettijärvi-Keväjärvi Trail: This 17-kilometer trail takes hikers through some of the most scenic landscapes in Lapland, including forests, fells, and lakes.
  • Riisitunturi Hiking Trail: This 7-kilometer trail leads hikers through old-growth forests and over rugged hills, and it offers stunning views of the national park.
  • Pyhäkero Trail: This trail is a popular destination for experienced hikers who want to explore some of the most challenging and rugged landscapes in Lapland.

Best Things to Do in Sevettijärvi: Activities and Tours

Sevettijärvi has many activities and tours that are perfect for adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Some of the best things to do in Sevettijärvi include:

  • Northern Lights Tours: Sevettijärvi is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, and there are many tour operators that offer guided tours.
  • Reindeer Sled Rides: Experience Lapland’s traditional way of transportation by taking a reindeer sled ride through the beautiful landscapes of Sevettijärvi.
  • Husky Safaris: Explore the winter wonderland of Lapland on a husky safari.
  • Ice Fishing: Try your hand at ice fishing at Sevettijärvi Lake.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sevettijärvi

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Sevettijärvi.

  • Day 1: Explore the Sevettijärvi area, including a visit to Sevettijärvi Church and Sevettijärvi War Memorial.
  • Day 2: Visit Riisitunturi National Park and hike the Riisitunturi Hiking Trail.
  • Day 3: Take a Northern Lights tour.
  • Day 4: Explore the Pyhäkero area and hike the Pyhäkero Trail.
  • Day 5: Take a reindeer sled ride.
  • Day 6: Visit Sevettijärvi Museum and learn about the town’s history and culture.
  • Day 7: Try ice fishing at Sevettijärvi Lake.

Food and Drink Scene of Sevettijärvi

Must-Try Dishes

Sevettijärvi is known for its traditional Finnish cuisine, which is hearty and flavorful. Some of the must-try dishes in Sevettijärvi include:

  • Lohikeitto: This creamy salmon soup is a Finnish classic and a must-try dish in Sevettijärvi.
  • Poronkäristys: This traditional Finnish dish features reindeer meat that’s been slow-cooked in a rich sauce until tender and flavorful.
  • Leipäjuusto: This Finnish cheese is made from cow’s milk and served warm.

Local Beverages

Sevettijärvi is known for its excellent craft beers and berry wines. Some of the must-try beverages in Sevettijärvi include:

  • Lapin Kulta Beer: This is a popular Finnish beer that’s brewed in Lapland and has a refreshing taste.
  • Arctic Berry Wines: These wines are made from locally sourced berries, including cloudberry, lingonberry, and blueberry.

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

Sevettijärvi has many options for accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the top places to stay in Sevettijärvi include:

  • Sevettijärvi Wilderness Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Lapland and offers comfortable rooms and excellent amenities, including a sauna.
  • Kaamasen Kievari: This cozy guesthouse is located in the beautiful Kaamanen area, and it features traditional Finnish architecture and furnishings.
  • Hostel Sevettijärvi: This hostel is a budget-friendly option that offers comfortable rooms and is located in a scenic area.

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

Sevettijärvi is known for its locally made handicrafts and souvenirs. Some of the best products to bring home from Sevettijärvi include:

  • Sámi Crafts: Sevettijärvi is home to many Sámi artisans who create beautiful handmade crafts, including jewelry, clothing, and traditional Sámi items.
  • Finnish Knives: Finnish knives are world-renowned for their quality and craftsmanship, and you can find many shops in Sevettijärvi that sell them.
  • Berry Jams: Sevettijärvi is located in an area that’s known for its wild berries, and you can find many shops that sell delicious berry jams that are made from local berries.

Local Culture and Customs of Sevettijärvi

Sevettijärvi has a rich cultural heritage, and the town’s Sámi population has a deep connection to nature and the surrounding landscapes. Some of the most important cultural customs in Sevettijärvi include:

  • Sámi Culture: The Sámi people have lived in Lapland for thousands of years, and their culture and customs are an important part of Sevettijärvi’s history and heritage.
  • Reindeer Herding: Reindeer herding is a traditional way of life in Lapland, and it’s still practiced today in Sevettijärvi.
  • Nature Worship: The people of Sevettijärvi have a deep appreciation and reverence for nature, and they believe that everything in nature has a spirit.

Best Time to Visit Sevettijärvi

The best time to visit Sevettijärvi depends on what you want to see and do. The winter months from December to March are ideal for winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and seeing the Northern Lights. The summer months from June to August are perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring Sevettijärvi’s natural beauty.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sevettijärvi

Do:

  • Dress warmly during the winter months.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take a Northern Lights tour.
  • Try traditional Finnish cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Disturb the local wildlife.
  • Litter in the national parks.
  • Ignore the weather warnings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sevettijärvi

Sevettijärvi is a safe destination for travelers, but it’s important to take precautions, especially during the winter months. Some safety tips include:

  • Dress warmly and in layers during the winter months.
  • Stay on marked trails while hiking or exploring the national parks.
  • Take a guided tour when exploring the backcountry.

Health in Sevettijärvi

Finland has an excellent healthcare system, and Sevettijärvi has a local health center where travelers can receive medical attention if needed. It’s recommended that travelers purchase travel insurance before visiting Sevettijärvi.

Getting to Sevettijärvi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sevettijärvi is located in northern Finland and is accessible via several transportation options. Some of the most popular include:

Airports Near Sevettijärvi

  • Ivalo Airport: This airport is located approximately 80 kilometers from Sevettijärvi and offers flights from Helsinki.
  • Rovaniemi Airport: This airport is located approximately 200 kilometers from Sevettijärvi and offers flights from Helsinki and other major European cities.

Bus Stations Near Sevettijärvi

  • Inari Bus Station: The Inari Bus Station is located approximately 30 kilometers from Sevettijärvi and offers bus connections to other cities in Lapland and beyond.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: It’s possible to rent a car and drive to Sevettijärvi from Helsinki or other nearby cities.
  • Train: There is no train service to Sevettijärvi, but travelers can take a train to the nearby city of Rovaniemi and then take a bus or rent a car to get to Sevettijärvi.

How to Get Around in Sevettijärvi

Sevettijärvi is a small town, and the best way to get around is on foot or by bike. There are also local buses that connect Sevettijärvi to nearby towns and cities.

Where to Go Next from Sevettijärvi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Inari: This small town is located approximately 30 kilometers from Sevettijärvi and is known for its beautiful lake and vibrant Sámi culture.
  • Saariselkä: This popular tourist destination is located approximately 70 kilometers from Sevettijärvi and is known for its excellent ski resorts and outdoor activities.
  • Rovaniemi: This vibrant city is located approximately 200 kilometers from Sevettijärvi and is known for its Santa Claus Village and excellent shopping.

Conclusion

Sevettijärvi is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the beauty and culture of Lapland. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just getting away from it all, Sevettijärvi has something to offer. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to Sevettijärvi and that you have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful town.

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