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

Nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland lies Luosto, a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Whether you are an avid hiker, a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or a curious traveler, Luosto has something to offer for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Luosto, from the iconic landmarks to the best things to do, from the mouth-watering local cuisine to the cultural customs. So, sit back, relax, and let’s explore the wonders of Luosto!

Introduction to Luosto

Luosto is a charming village located in Sodankylä, in the heart of Finnish Lapland, Northern Finland. It is known for its pristine natural beauty, endless trails, and fascinating cultural heritage. The village is surrounded by some of the most breathtaking sceneries in Finland, including the Pyhä-Luosto National Park, which offers a unique opportunity to explore the Arctic wilderness. Luosto is also home to the iconic Lampivaara Amethyst Mine, which is one of the few amethyst mines in the world that allow visitors to mine their own amethysts.

List of Places to Visit in Luosto

No trip to Luosto is complete without exploring its must-visit places. Here’s a list of the top attractions that should be on your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sodankylä Old Church: A historical wooden church that dates back to the 17th century.
Gold Prospector Museum: A museum that showcases the history of gold prospecting in Lapland, from the early days of the gold rush to modern-day technologies.
Sami Museum and Nature Center Siida: A unique museum that offers insights into the Sami culture, including their ancient customs, traditions, and beliefs.

Natural Attractions of Luosto: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Pyhä-Luosto National Park: A vast protected wilderness area that offers endless opportunities for hiking, trekking, skiing, and wildlife watching.
Lampivaara Amethyst Mine: A unique mine that allows visitors to mine their own amethysts, and offers breathtaking views of the Arctic landscape.
Kopara Reindeer Park: A reindeer farm that offers guided tours, sleigh rides, and insights into the life of the Sami people.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Luosto

Luosto is a paradise for hikers and bikers, offering endless trails that suit all levels of difficulty and preferences. Whether you are looking for a short, gentle walk or a challenging trek, you’ll find countless options to choose from. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Luosto:

Noitatunturi Fell Trail: A scenic trail that takes you to the top of the Noitatunturi Fell, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
Pyhä-Luosto Fell Lapland Trail: A challenging trek that covers 150 km of wilderness, including the Pyhä-Luosto National Park and the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine.
Pyhäjärvi Circuit Trail: A circular bike trail that covers 27 km of scenic lakeside roads, offering an opportunity to explore the tranquility of the Lapland forest.

Best Things to Do in Luosto: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, Luosto offers plenty of activities and tours that cater to all types of travelers. Here’s a list of the best things to do in Luosto:

Northern Lights Hunting: A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the magic of the Aurora Borealis.
Husky and Reindeer Safaris: A thrilling adventure that allows you to ride a sled pulled by huskies or reindeer, offering an authentic experience of the Lapland wilderness.
Ice Fishing: A relaxing and peaceful activity that involves drilling a hole in the ice and catching fish, offering insights into the local lifestyle.

Week-Long Itinerary for Luosto

If you have a week to spare in Luosto, here’s a suggested itinerary that covers the highlights of Luosto:

Day 1- 3: Explore the Pyhä-Luosto National Park and its various trails. Day 4: Visit the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine and mine your own amethysts. Day 5: Go on a husky or reindeer safari, and enjoy the wilderness. Day 6: Relax and pamper yourself with a spa treatment at the Hotel Aurora Luosto. Day 7: Visit the Sodankylä Old Church and the Gold Prospector Museum to delve into the cultural heritage.

Food and Drink Scene of Luosto

Luosto has a vibrant local culinary scene that offers a variety of delicious Finnish dishes and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Ranua Arctic Wildlife Plate: A dish that consists of three types of meat - bear, reindeer, and elk, and served with lingonberry sauce.
Kalakukko: A traditional Finnish fish-filled pastry that originates from the Savo region.
Morel Mushroom Soup: A creamy soup that features the delicate yet robust flavor of morel mushrooms.

Local Beverages

Sahti: A traditional Finnish beer that is made from rye, barley, and juniper berries, and features a fruity and spicy flavor.
Cloudberry Liqueur: A sweet and fruity liqueur that features the unique flavor of the cloudberry fruit.
Salmiakki Koskenkorva: A popular Finnish vodka that features the distinct taste of salted licorice.

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

Luosto offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to all types of travelers and budgets. Here are some of the best options:

Hotel Aurora Luosto: A luxurious hotel that offers spa treatments and various recreational facilities.
Luosto Camping: A budget-friendly option that offers camping grounds and cabins.
Aurora Cabins Luosto: A unique option that offers igloo-styled cabins and a chance to view the Northern Lights from the comfort of your own cabin.

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

Luosto offers a variety of local products and souvenirs that are perfect for bringing a piece of the Lapland wilderness home. Here are some of the best options:

Amethyst jewelry: Unique pieces of jewelry made from the locally mined amethysts.
Reindeer products: Various products made from reindeer, such as hides, fur, meat, and accessories.
Finnish handicrafts: Various traditional handicrafts, such as Sami bracelets, knitwear, and wooden products.

Local Culture and Customs of Luosto

Luosto is surrounded by the Sami culture, which is the native culture of Lapland. The Sami people have their own customs, traditions, and beliefs that are still prevalent in the region. Visiting Luosto offers a unique opportunity to learn about the Sami culture firsthand, and to witness their way of life through various activities and tours.

Best Time to Visit Luosto

The best time to visit Luosto is from December to April when the region is covered in snow and the Northern Lights are visible. The peak season for tourism is from mid-December to early January, when the holiday season is in full swing, and the village is decked in festive decorations. However, visiting Luosto during the summer months also offers different types of adventures, such as hiking and fishing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Luosto

Do:

Respect the local customs and traditions.
Dress warmly and in layers during the winter months.
Try the local cuisine and beverages.
Enjoy the wilderness and explore the natural attractions.

Don’t:

Disturb the wildlife or litter in the protected areas.
Ignore the safety rules and guidelines when engaging in outdoor activities.
Mock or imitate the Sami culture or language.
Wander off the marked trails or venture into uncharted areas.

Safety and Health

Luosto is a safe destination with low crime rates. However, travelers should still take precautions and follow the standard safety rules when engaging in outdoor activities. Here are some tips for safety and health:

Safety in Luosto

Always bring a map, compass, and a charged phone when hiking or trekking.
Check the weather forecast and alert someone of your whereabouts before starting your adventure.
Wear appropriate clothing and gear for the activity and weather conditions.

Health in Luosto

Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
Protect yourself from the cold and frostbite by dressing in layers.
Consult a physician before engaging in physically demanding activities.

Getting to Luosto: Transportation Options and Logistics

Luosto is located in Northern Finland and is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Here are some options for getting to Luosto:

Airports Near Luosto

Rovaniemi Airport: The closest airport to Luosto, located 120 km away.
Kittilä Airport: Located 131 km away from Luosto.

Bus Stations Near Luosto

Sodankylä Bus Station: The closest bus station to Luosto, located 37 km away.

Other Options

Car rental: Renting a car is a popular option for exploring the Lapland region, and offers more flexibility and convenience.

How to Get Around in Luosto

The best way to explore Luosto is by walking, hiking, or biking. There are also several taxi companies and car rental services available in the village. The Pyhä-Luosto National Park also offers shuttle buses that transport visitors from one trail to another.

Where to Go Next from Luosto: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Luosto is surrounded by some of the most beautiful destinations in Finnish Lapland. Here are some nearby places that are worth visiting:

Rovaniemi: The cultural and commercial capital of Lapland, famous for its Santa Claus Village and Arktikum Museum.
Levi: A popular winter sports resort that offers various activities, such as skiing, snowmobiling, and tobogganing.
Inari: A remote village that is located on the shore of Lake Inari, and is known for its Sami culture and traditions.

Conclusion

Luosto is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. From the iconic landmarks to the mouth-watering local cuisine, Luosto has something to offer for everyone. We hope this comprehensive guide has inspired you to plan your next trip to Luosto and explore the wonders of Finnish Lapland!

Luosto Image Gallery

Luosto fells in late May

Reindeer at regional road 962

View from Noitatunturi