In late September, I packed up a couple friends and headed north, to the legendary Laplands ...
The Laplands, arguably the true north of Europe, are famous for many reasons -- amazing landscapes, untouched wilderness, and an intriguing history - both natural and cultural.
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Napapiiri - The Arctic Circle
The Laplands officially begin at the Arctic Circle. Like most travellers, we crossed this line at Rovaniemi and visited the Napapiiri tourist hub. Even more exciting than the circle itself was the chance to meet the "real" Santa Claus ("Joulupukki") at his village!! |
Ruska
"Ruska" is the Finnish word used to aptly describe the beautfiul phenomenon of autumn, when the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, gold and brown. Nowhere is it more breath-taking than in the Laplands in mid-September. |
The Wonder of Wetlands
Like most of Finland, the Laplands are dotted with amazing lakes and beautiful wetlands. But even so, there is something unique about the quiet lakes which we found hiding in the old growth forests ... an almost mystical feeling. |
Old Meets Older ...
Of all the interesting and beautiful landscapes we experienced, these intrigued me the most --- old growth forests that centuries earlier had risen up from the barrens, surrounding giant boulders that had been left there even longer ago by ancient glaciers. Talk about cool ... |
Rivers and Streams
One feature of the Laplands that seemed unique in Finland was the abundance of large rivers -- making it a favourite destination for recreational fishermen from all over Europe. However, it was the quaintness of little, bubbling brooks and streams tucked away in the wilderness that caught my fancy ... |
Pielpajarvi Wilderness Church
One very nice hike near the northern village of Inari (68.54 N) leads to the Wilderness Church, originally built in the late 17th century. This church and its parsonage became a thriving centre of trade for the indigenous "Sami" people -- but, as in many cases, the introduction of Christian religion and policies played a big part in the decimation of the traditional Sami lifestlye and language. Only remnants of their rich history and culture thrive on ... |
Riekko
Along with untouched wilderness comes wildlife ... of which there is plenty of variety in the far north. Here, a Willow Ptarmigan ("Riekko") pretends to be invisible in the northern forests of the Ivalo region. |
