Kolari – River Landscapes and Culture

For centuries, Kolarin kirkonkylä has stood on the banks of the Muonionjoki, also known as Väylä. This combination of riverside scenery and local history shapes what there is to discover in Kolari. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Kolari, you can consider whether you would like to focus your stay on culture, walking trails or experiences by the river. The cultural trail is a good starting point for learning about local history: it begins in the churchyard and leads to the roots of the way of life in Peräpohjola.

Riverside and Cultural History

The cultural trail passes through landscapes shaped by the cultivation of flood meadows and work along the riverbanks. It thus connects the landscape with the activities that have helped shape life in the region. The river itself is also part of the visitor experience: Väylä draws visitors to Kolari, particularly for salmon rowing. Those interested in the relationship between the river and local ways of life will find a different perspective here than on an outing focused primarily on physical activity.

Churches in Kolari

The old wooden church, Kolarinsaaren kirkko, was completed in 1818. It is a protected site under the Finnish Heritage Agency and was restored under its supervision in 1976. The square building has a separate bell tower and is used for worship services and church ceremonies. In summer, the church serves as a concert venue. One practical detail to bear in mind: the building has no lighting or heating.

Kolari’s new church, built in 1965, is a separate building. It stands in the centre of Kolarin kirkonkylä, on the grounds of the Jokijala vicarage. In its altarpiece, the artist Urpo Vainio depicts the work “Jeesus vierailee kolarilaisessa kodissa.” Those interested in architecture and religious art can include two distinct churches and their respective designs in their travel plans without conflating their histories.

Trails and Activities

Teuran lenkki is a clearly defined option for a walk: the route is 2.6 kilometres long, flat and lit. It is named after Olympic champion Pertti Teurajärvi. The Ahamankolon laavu lean-to shelter is located along the route. Nearby, the approximately 3.5-kilometre Lukkarinvainion luontopolku nature trail passes through river and forest landscapes. The routes differ in length and terrain, so choose according to the distance and type of trail that suit your outing.

Disc golf is another option: Kolarin kirkonkylä has nine tee-off points, each with a map to help you find your way. The maps on site make it easy to get started. Together with the walking trails, this offers a different way to spend the day than exploring the churches and cultural trail, with no set order to follow.

Getting There and Choosing Where to Stay

Kolari railway station is the closest railway station to Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park. A connecting bus runs from the station to Ylläs and back. In Ylläs, the national park can be reached via trails that start just outside the fell villages. If the national park is an important part of your trip, this connection may factor into your choice of holiday apartment or holiday home. If you are more interested in the river, the cultural trail and the churches, the distinctive features of Kolarin kirkonkylä offer their own reason to consider Kolari as a destination.

Discover More Places

More places to discover: Ivalo, Nuorgam, Luosto, Tervola, Enontekiö, Napapiiri, Sirkkakoski and Muonio.

For the regional travel overview: Lapland.