Sodankylä Travel Guide

Explore the best of Sodankylä, a town situated in Finnish Lapland known for its natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Discover the must-see attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Sodankylä

Sodankylä is a charming town situated in Finnish Lapland, known for its natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. This town is surrounded by stunning landscapes, pristine forests, and sparkling lakes, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The town is also rich in cultural heritage, making it a perfect place to experience traditional Finnish culture and customs.

This comprehensive travel guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Sodankylä. From places to visit and things to do, to the food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety and health, and getting around, this guide has you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover the best of Sodankylä.

List of Places to Visit in Sodankylä

There are plenty of things to see and do in Sodankylä, and below is a list of the top attractions you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Sodankylä Old Church Museum: A fascinating museum located in an old wooden church that has been preserved since the 17th century. Here, you can learn about the history and culture of the town and its people.
  • Northern Lapland Nature Centre: A museum dedicated to the natural beauty of Lapland, featuring interactive exhibits and displays about the local flora and fauna.
  • Siida – Sami Museum and Nature Centre: A museum dedicated to the Sami people, their culture, and way of life. Here you can learn about the Sami people’s history and their customs and traditions.

Natural Attractions of Sodankylä: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pyhä-Luosto National Park: A popular destination for hiking, biking, and skiing. The park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and hills.
  • Luosto Fell: A perfect spot to enjoy panoramic views of the landscape and to watch the Northern Lights or Midnight Sun.
  • Tankavaara Gold Village: A gold mining museum and village where you can learn about the history of gold mining in Lapland and try panning for gold.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sodankylä

Sodankylä offers an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, catering to all levels of hiking/biking experience. Here are some of the top routes:

  • Pyhä-Luosto National Park Trail: A 35 km hiking trail through the National Park, offering stunning views of the hills, forests, and lakes.
  • Luosto Nature Trail: A 5km circular trail that takes you through the beautiful landscape of Luosto Fell.
  • Tankavaara Gold Village Trail: A 5km hiking trail that takes you through the gold mining history of Lapland.

Best Things to Do in Sodankylä: Activities and Tours

Sodankylä offers plenty of activities and tours to keep you engaged during your stay. Here are some of the best things to do in Sodankylä:

  • Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of dog sledding through the snowy landscapes of Lapland.
  • Aurora Hunting: Lapland is known for its spectacular Northern Lights, and Sodankylä offers some of the best opportunities for Aurora hunting.
  • Reindeer Farm Visit: Visit a reindeer farm and learn about the traditional herding methods of the Sami people.
  • Snowmobile Safari: Explore the snowy landscapes of Lapland on a snowmobile.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sodankylä

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for Sodankylä:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Sodankylä and explore the town
Day 2 Visit the Sodankylä Old Church Museum and the Northern Lapland Nature Centre
Day 3 Go hiking in Pyhä-Luosto National Park
Day 4 Take a reindeer farm visit and go dog-sledding
Day 5 Explore the Tankavaara Gold Village
Day 6 Take a snowmobile safari
Day 7 Depart from Sodankylä

Food and Drink Scene of Sodankylä

Sodankylä has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of local restaurants and cafes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Reindeer meat dishes: Sodankylä is known for its reindeer meat dishes such as reindeer soups and stews.
  • Salmon soup: A delicious Finnish soup made of salmon and potatoes.
  • Karjalanpiirakka: A traditional Karelian pastry made of rye flour and filled with rice or potatoes.

Local Beverages

  • Lapin Kulta: A popular Finnish beer, brewed in Lapland.
  • Sima: A traditional Finnish drink made of lemon, sugar, and honey, fermented with yeast.
  • Salmiakki vodka: A Finnish vodka flavored with salty liquorice.

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

Sodankylä offers a range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets. Here are some of the top options:

  • Arctic Star Hotel: A cozy hotel with excellent amenities, located in the heart of Sodankylä.
  • Aurora Kota: A unique accommodation option, where you can stay in a traditional Lappish Kota.
  • Hostel Sodankylä: A budget-friendly hostel located in the town center.
  • Guesthouse Ranua: A charming guesthouse located in the peaceful countryside.

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

Sodankylä offers plenty of local products that make perfect souvenirs. Here are some of the top products to buy:

  • Reindeer skins: Finnish Lapland is known for its high-quality reindeer skins, which make great souvenirs and gifts.
  • Sámi handicrafts: The Sami people are known for their traditional handicrafts such as jewelry, clothing, and decorative items.
  • Lapland honey: Lapland honey is a delicious and unique souvenir that you can bring home with you.

Local Culture and Customs of Sodankylä

Sodankylä is rich in cultural heritage, and it’s an ideal place to experience traditional Finnish culture and customs. The Sami people have a strong influence on the town’s culture and way of life. The town hosts various events and festivals throughout the year to celebrate its cultural heritage.

Best Time to Visit Sodankylä

The best time to visit Sodankylä is during the winter months (December to February) when the town is covered in snow and the Northern Lights can be seen. However, the summer months (June to August) are also a great time to visit, as the weather is warmer, and the town is bustling with outdoor activities and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sodankylä

It’s essential to respect the local customs and way of life when visiting Sodankylä. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the Sami people and their way of life.
  • Dress warmly and appropriately for the weather.
  • Try local Finnish cuisine and beverages.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities Sodankylä has to offer.

Don’t:

  • Disturb the natural environment or wildlife.
  • Speak loudly or disturb the peace and quiet of the town.
  • Ignore the traffic rules while driving.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sodankylä

Sodankylä is a safe town, and there are no major safety concerns. However, visitors should be aware of the following:

  • The weather can be extreme during the winter months, and it’s essential to dress warmly and appropriately.
  • The natural environment can be dangerous, and visitors should respect the local wildlife and natural surroundings.

Health in Sodankylä

The health facilities in Sodankylä are adequate, and there are no major health concerns. However, visitors should take the necessary precautions to avoid exposure to extreme weather conditions.

Getting to Sodankylä: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sodankylä is located in Finnish Lapland, and there are several transportation options to get there. Here are the most convenient options:

Airports Near Sodankylä

  • Rovaniemi Airport: Sodankylä is located around 2 hours’ drive from Rovaniemi Airport.
  • Kittilä Airport: Sodankylä is located around 1.5 hours’ drive from Kittilä Airport.

Bus Stations Near Sodankylä

  • Sodankylä Bus Station: There are regular bus services to Sodankylä from Rovaniemi and other major Finnish towns.

Other Options

  • Rental Car: Renting a car is an excellent option for exploring Lapland’s remote areas at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Sodankylä

Sodankylä is a small town, and it’s easy to get around on foot or by bike. Taxis and rental cars are also available if you prefer to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Sodankylä: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sodankylä is an excellent base for exploring Lapland’s surrounding areas. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Rovaniemi: The official hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi is a popular destination for winter sports and festivities.
  • Levi: A popular ski resort located around 2 hours’ drive from Sodankylä.
  • Inari: Located around 2.5 hours’ drive from Sodankylä, Inari is known for its stunning landscapes and Sami culture.

Conclusion

Sodankylä is a beautiful and charming town, located in the heart of Finnish Lapland. With its natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures, this town has something for everyone. We hope this travel guide has given you all the information you need to make the most of your trip to Sodankylä. Enjoy your trip!

Lake Harrijärvi in Urho Kekkonen National Park. Lake Harrijärvi in Urho Kekkonen National Park.


    Luosto
    Tankavaara