All About Lapland – Summer 2016 ENG

FREE TOURIST MAGAZINE ABOUT FINNISH LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016 LOCAL CUISINE BEST RESTAURANTS IN ROVANIEMI PRODUCTS FROM THE ARCTIC NATURE BERRIES & PLANTS ROVANIEMI’S NATURAL ATTRACTIONS BEST SPOTS TO VISIT

Your Free Copy!

LAPPISH DESIGN INSPIRED BY NATURE INTO THE WILDERNESS PYHÄ-LUOSTO NATIONAL PARK

SUMMER 2016 ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

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The Magic of

Christmas!

ns right next door bi ca ity al qu lte ho in l el w p Slee Village,you us la C a nt Sa e th in e, er H to Santa! mas all year round! ist hr C of ic ag M e th el fe n ca

Free t Airpor !

Shuttle

THE APARTME

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(37 m²) in total

ents ily of four • 74 apartm meant for a fam is t en tm ar ap • Each ults and two kids) t,

(two ad 45 cm), own toile one sofa bed (1 s, ed b o tw , terrace, wifi • TV, mini-kitchen a, un sa , er ow sh icrowave, fridge, stove, m h it w en ch it i-k • min aker, kettle, dishes and tableware er coffee m min to city cent Santa Claus, 10 to in m 2 • 24/7!

• Reception open

Bon Appétit!

menu Buffet-lunch and á la carte served every day of the year!

+358 40 159 3811 | info@schv.fi 2

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

www.schv.fi

EDITORIAL

CONTACT DETAILS Alexander Kuznetsov +358 400 82 55 70 hello@allaboutlapland.fi PRINTED BY Erweko, Oulu, Finland, 2016 CIRCULATION 30.000 copies ISSN 2343-3981 DISTRIBUTION Rovaniemi: Santa Claus Village, Santa’s Office, Rovaniemi Tourist Office, Rovaniemi Airport, Arktikum, Science Centre Pilke, Shopping Centres Revontuli, Rinteenkulma and Sampokeskus, Sokos Hotel Vaakuna, City Hotel, Lapland Hotel Sky Ounasvaara, Santa Claus Holiday Village, Santasport, HopLop & Rollo Halli. Pyhä: Pyhä Ski-Inn. Luosto: Lapland Hotel Luosto, Little Amethyst Shop. Kemijärvi: Kemijärvi ABC! station. Salla: Hotel Takka Valkea, S-Market Salla, Holiday Club Salla. Saariselkä: Holiday Club Saariselkä, Santa’s Hotel Saariselkä.

Ivalo: Hotel Ivalo, Hotel Kultahippu. Levi: Sokos Break Hotel Levi, Levi Tourist Office. Kemi: Kemi Airport. Ranua: Ranua Wildlife Park.

Ruka: Ruka Tourist Info, Rantasipi Rukahovi.

Kuusamo: Holiday Club Kuusamo, Kuusamo Tourist Info. Border Crossing Points with Russia: Rajajooseppi (Ivalo), Kelloselkä (Salla), Vartius (Kajaani). Russia, Murmansk: Murmansk Visa Centre, Murmansk Office of the Consulate General of Finland.

DIGITAL VERSION issuu.com/allaboutlapland ONLINE MAGAZINE www.allaboutlapland.fi

Alexander Kuznetsov EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Let the adventure begin!

DEAR FRIEND! You are holding in your hands the first issue of All About Lapland bilingual travel magazine. It will tell you everything you need to know about Finnish Lapland. At least, that’s our intention!

To say that it was an adventure to publish this magazine is to tell nothing! First of all, this is not a conventional magazine — there’s no huge staff of reporters, designers, project managers or salesmen — everything you see is done by a team of me and my lovely wife Julia. All of the stories, most of the pictures and the design is done by our hands. We are lucky to have the possibility to travel around Finnish Lapland and to explore its wondrous landscapes and discover its hidden gems. As travellers, we know exactly what kind of information you will need on your journey and we are happy to share it with you!

Of course, this magazine would not be possible without our advertisers — local Lappish companies that provide you with quality services and products. There is a special state of mind here in Lapland, called “the positive madness”. It refers to a superlative belief in one’s ability to succeed and overcome struggles. It is a hunch that one’s idea, no matter how crazy it sounds, will work. Many of the local companies, our little company including, were born with this kind of thinking in mind.

When you travel throughout Finnish Lapland, I am sure that you will encounter examples of such ‘positive madness’. A word of warning — it is contageous!

Now, we are starting on a new journey and we invite you to join us! In addition to this printed magazine you welcome to explore All About Lapland Blog and our social media channels. Share your experience with us or ask us a question!

All About Lapland Your free online resources!

You can find lots of interesting info, tips and stories about tourism in Lapland and ask us questions on our blog: www.allaboutlapland.fi You can also find us on major social networks: Facebook: fb.com/allaboutlapland Twitter: @allaboutlapland Instagram: @allaboutlapland Snapchat: @allaboutlapland Vimeo.com/allaboutlapland VK.com/allaboutlapland

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

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SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS 2016

THE MIDNIGHT SUN End-May to End-July

MIDSUMMER 24–25.6.2016

MIDNIGHT FILM FESTIVAL 15–19.6.2016, Sodankylä

ROVAKATU STREET MARKET 17–18.6.2016, Rovaniemi

NIGHTLESS NIGHT

PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP

ROVANIEMI MARATHON

1–3.7.2016, Saariselkä

2.7.2016, Rovaniemi

OULANKA NATURE FEST 2–9.7.2016, Oulanka National Park

INARI WEEKS 22–31.7.2016, Inari

BERRY-PICKING SEASON

PYHÄ UNPLUGGED

July–September

4–7.8.2016, Pyhä

LUOSTO CLASSIC

GOLDPANNING FINNISH OPEN

CLOUDBERRY FESTIVAL

11–14.8.2016, Pyhä-Luosto

28–31.7.2016, Tankavaara

6–7.8.2016, Ranua

SIMEAROCK FESTIVAL 12–13.8.2016, Rovaniemi

OLD MARKET SQUARE CARNIVAL 19–21.8.2016, Toripuistikko, Rovaniemi

RUSKAMARATHON 3.9.2016, Levi

LAPLAND NEWS

Enjoy the Silence

ARCTIC TREEHOUSE HOTEL TO OPEN IN ROVANIEMI IN NOVEMBER 2016 ARCTIC TREEHOUSE HOTEL will rise on the Arctic Circle in Rovaniemi, next to Santa Park, Santa’s home cavern. The hotel will be constructed by the Santa Park Ltd family company, and it is scheduled to open in November 2016.

— We want to bring the arctic nature into the safe and warm environment of the rooms, explains Ilkka Länkinen, Chief Experience Officer at Santa Park Arctic World. — The rooms will feel like a comfortable nest in a tree.

The hotel will stand on the northern hill of Syväsenvaara Fell, which also hides Santa Park deep inside its bowels. The Hotel’s suites will be elevated on pillars, allowing the guests to view the surrounding nature and the sky through large panoramic windows. The Northern Lights can be admired from the comfort of the suites.

— It is a completely new way to enjoy the Arctic Circle and the natural phenomena it offers, says Katja Ikähimo-Länkinen, Experience Director at Santa Park Arctic World.

The exterior of the suites will be adapted to the surrounding environment. The walls will be covered with shingles and the roofs with grass, in honour of the traditions of local craftsmanship.

The interior design will be modern Scandinavian style, decorated with luxury materials such as Lappish wood and fur.

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ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

The suites will be built in pairs, allowing for some to be interconnected. There will also be several larger cabins with a lounge area and two en-suite bedrooms, making it a total of 26 suites and 5 cabins. The atmospheric reception building with Käpy Bar and Rakas Restaurant will serve local cuisine and drinks to hotel guests and visitors.

The Arctic Circle area in Rovaniemi offers many activities only a stone’s throw away from the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel. Santa Park, the home cavern of Santa Claus, is only a few minutes’ walk from Santa Claus Village. At Santa Park you can meet Santa Claus in his office, and many cheerful elves who are happy to share their magical activities with guests of all ages. The Arctic TreeHouse Hotel also offers a range of unique activities, such as the Arctic Forest Spa, cultural treats, and a visit to Santa’s Secret Forest. More info available at:

www.arctictreehousehotel.com

QUIETON LTD, a start-up company from Oulu, Northern Finland, is at the forefront of the well-being market. Their product, electronic earplugs, use active noise cancellation technology and passive acoustic attenuation to reduce noises that affect sleep.

— Our earplugs are very useful during sleep or when you work in noisy environments, says the inventor Janne Kyllönen.

In order to be able to start production, they turned to crowdfunding. Their Indegogo campaign reached its funding goal in just 120 hours. The campaign ended on 16 March 2016, having raised almost 500,000 USD (818% above goal). The campaign backers payed €130 for a pair of earplugs whose retail price is expected to be €174. www.quieton.com

Quality cabins in Ranua HOLIDAY VILLAGE GULO GULO

in Ranua offers Lapland’s best quality cabin accommodation, according to its guests. On averate they gave the village 9,2 points on Booking.com. Opened in 2013, the village offers cosy apartments right near Ranua Zoo, Lapland’s most popular family attraction. www.gulo.fi

KonTti Is the besT in SecoNd hanD Kontti is a department store operated by the Finnish Red Cross

Second Hand Kontti Teollisuustie 13, 96320 Rovaniemi Opening hours Mon–Fri 9am–6pm, Sat 9am–4pm kontti.redcross.fi

Toyota Rent a Car Get out on the road with something BOLD!

PASSENGER CARS, MINIBUSES, HYBRIDS, SUV’S, VANS… Book your car: rent.rovaniemi@tojoauto.fi +358 40 590 19 14 Pick you car around the clock 24/7 at Rovaniemi airport, Rovaniemi railway station or get it delivered to your hotel.

TOJO-AUTO ROVANIEMI Alakorkalontie 15 Mon–Fri 08–17 Authorized Toyota dealer since 1968.

www.tojoauto.fi

MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS

SPARE PARTS & SUPPLIES

huolto.rovaniemi@tojoauto.fi +358 400 196 533

varaosat.rovaniemi@tojoauto.fi +358 400 160 244

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

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LAPLAND NEWS

While Rovaniemi aiport is closed you also can reach Rovaniemi by train, as well as affordable coach transportation by Onnibus company.

Michelin buys Arctic test centre in Ivalo, Lapland.

ROVANIEMI AIRPORT TO BE CLOSED IN JULY 2016 FOR RUNWAY RENOVATION ROVANIEMI AIPORT will be closed from June 28th to July 31st for runway renovation. During that time all air traffic to Rovaniemi will be operated via Kemi and Oulu. Free bus transfer will be provided from Rovaniemi airport to flights departing from Oulu and Kemi-Tornio airports. Busses to Kemi will leave 3 hours before and to Oulu 5 hours before flight departure. The busses will return to Rovaniemi after baggage claim. You can also catch the bus at Rovaniemi Bus Station. Other gateways to Northern Finland are Kittilä, Ivalo and Kuusamo airports.

Rovaniemi is Finland’s third busiest airport after Helsinki-Vantaa and Oulu. In 2015, Rovaniemi Airport received 478 347 passengers. The passenger traffic grew 7.6 % from the previous year. The peak in the passenger flow is in December, when

the airport receives more than a hundred charter flights in addition to the scheduled traffic.

Rovaniemi airport was recently chosen Finland’s Airport of the Year. In 2015, the main terminal was renovated and a second security control line was added. The airport’s runway, however, was last renovated in the 1980’s. The upcoming 2016 renovation will be necessary to ensure that the airport will be ready to accommodate the increasing tourist flow.

Finavia, a state-owned company that runs the country’s airports, invested EUR 35 million in Lapland’s airports in 2014–2016. The company has recently renewed passenger terminals and resurfaced runways at Kittilä and Ivalo airports.

More information about Finland’s airports:

www.finavia.fi

THE MICHELIN GROUP has acquired an arctic test centre in Finnish Lapland, near the Ivalo village. According to Michelin, the test environment in Ivalo is good due to extreme climatic conditions and the quality of the snow, the consistency of which is different from that of the alpine snow. For over 20 years, Michelin has been operating the centre for the testing of their winter tires.

The test centre has two ice tracks, four circular tracks, a snow test track, and various platforms for brakes and acceleration testing. Ivalo is also home to the winter test facilities of Nokian Tyres and Goodyear, along with the independent Test World Oy, which was recently taken over by the England-based technology centre Millbrook Proving Ground. www.michelin.com

NEED A CAR? Rent it from Scandia Rent!

SCANDIA RENT is Finland’s largest car rental network with 50 offices around the country. Our fleet includes economy class cars, family & mid-class vehicles, SUVs, space vans and minibuses. Our cars are clean, realiable and our prices are very reasonable. You can pick your car up at our office in Rovaniemi center, Rovaniemi airport or railway station. Book now!

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ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

Valtakatu 26, Rovaniemi. Mon–Fri 8–17, Sat–Sun 10–14.

Tel. (24h) +358 16 342 0506

Rent a car at: www.scandiarent.fi

LAPLAND NEWS

Two music festivals will be held in Rovaniemi in summer, RolloPop 29–30.7.2016 and Simerock 12–13.8.2016.

NEW HOSTEL TO OPEN IN ROVANIEMI

Tuulia Repo and Antti Piiparinen before the hostel building.

HOSTEL CAFÉ KOTI will open in Rovaniemi city center in November 2016. The project is run by two young entrepreneurs, Tuulia Repo and Antti Piiparinen. Having travelled around the world, they now want to provide clean, cosy and affordable accommodation in their hometown. The hostel will have 24 double rooms with on-suite bathrooms as well as three dormitories for ten persons each. ‘Koti’ is the Finnish word for ‘home’.

— We want to open the doors into our local way of life, and to enable interaction between guests and Rovaniemi resident, says Tuulia.

A spacious café on the ground floor will welcome both hostel guests and locals. The guests will have access to a Finnish sauna, a self-service kitchen, a gym, and a terrace on the second floor. www.hostelcafekoti.fi

TOURISM INDUSTRY THRIVES IN LAPLAND Lapland tourism is on the rise, as more and more foreign visitors choose Lapland for their travel destination. In the first quarter of 2016, the number of people flying to Lapland’s airports was up 13.5%, compared to the previous year. The flow of international air travellers grew by 25%. In February 2016, the number of overnight stays was up 12% in Lapland, and many hotels were booked full. Normally hotels are full to the brim only during the Christmas season, but this year they were busy also in February and March.

For many years, tourists from Russia comprised the bulk of international travel in Lapland. Lately, their number has declined, but the number of travellers from Asia, Italy, Holland, and the UK has been on the rise. If this trend continues during the summer and Christmas seasons, the year 2016 may set an all-time record for tourism in Lapland.

Lordinaukio, Koskikatu 11. Rovaniemi

Husky safaris are popular among tourists in Lapland.

Best new hotel in Europe ARCTIC LIGHT HOTEL in Rovaniemi was chosen the 11th best new hotel on our Planet by the Travel+Leisure magazine. Arctic Light is the first new European hotel on the list, making it Europe’s finest.

Earlier in 2015 Arctic Light Hotel was ranked the 2nd best hotel in Finland by Trivago.

Arctic Light Hotel opened in Rovaniemi city centre in May 2015. Set in a former city hall, it features 57 stylishly decorated rooms, many of which have integrated living rooms, kitchenettes and saunas. The Aurora suites on the top floor have large windows that allow guests to observe the Northern Lights even without the need to leave the bed. There are plenty of other reasons for staying inside.

The lobby is an inviting space, and the hotel’s Arctic Boulevard restaurant serves amazing Scandinavian dishes. www.arcticlighthotel.fi

GIFTS & SOUVENIRS

Lappish Berry Jam

Arctic Doll

Many tasty berries and healthy plants grow in forests of Lapland. Local people collect them and make wonderful products from them, such as this delicious cloudberry jam. It is full of vitamins and flavour.

A perfect little local gift to take with you!

Available at:

Arctic Dolls, dressed in constumes, inspired by Sami culture, are a great gift for both young and adults. The dolls are manufactured in Rovaniemi since 1953 by Erkki Juopperi and their constumes are made by The Arctic Dressmakers in Rovaniemi center. Get yours at:

Arctic Dressmakers, Valtakatu 21, Rovaniemi

Mandragora Shop, Rovakatu 26, Rovaniemi

Easy gifts & souvenirs

Great items to take with you from your jorney to Lapland!

Finnish Knife The traditional ‘puukko’ knife is not only a fine souvenir but a useful tool for hiking and outdoors. The Marttiini factory, founded in Rovaniemi in 1928, became famous all around the world for its quality knives. You can buy Marttiini knives with your custom name engravement at factory shops in Rovaniemi:

Organic Chocolate Usually it is hard to resist eating chocolate, but when there is also some healthy chocolate around, you can eat it with a clear concience! Sabadi’s Quality of Life series contains organic, functional snacks that preserve cocoa’s beneficial properties.

Buy this and other organic chocolate at:

Mandragora Shop, Rovakatu 26, Rovaniemi

Arabia mug Arabia is a great example of the timeless, quality Finnish Design.

Arabia mugs, based on Tove Jansson’s Moomin characters, are perfect collectables, tableware and souvenirs for your friends and relatives. Available at:

Anttila Store (Shopping Centre Rinteenkulma) Iittala Shop (Santa Claus Village)

The Old Factory (Vartiokatu 32) Santa Claus Village Shopping Centre Rinteenkulma

Wooden eyewear In Summer the sun is shining around the clock in Lapland so getting some sun shades sounds like a good idea! Aarni Wood produces beautiful sunglasses out of wood that feel very natural to wear and have a unique look. Although a pair of shades will set you back around 90€, it will serve you for many years. Stylish wooden case for transporting the precious eyeware is included in the price. Available at:

Pilke Shop, Science Centre Pilke, Ounasjoentie 6, Rovaniemi.

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ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

Lappish jewellery There are many producers of quality jewellery in Lapland. One of them clearly stands out — the Taigakoru workshop, the makers of gold and silver jewellery based on Lappish mythology and culture. Although gold products are usually pricey, their silver jewellery is pretty affordable, authentic, and has very impressive appearance. Available at Taigakoru Shops:

Shopping centre Rinteenkulma (Rovaniemi) Santa Claus Village (next to Santa’s Office) Sodankylä Shop (Sompiontie 4)

Traditional jewelry from Lapland.

Handmade in Rovaniemi & Sodankylä since 1981.

Welcome to visit our new shop at SANTA CLAUS VILLAGE! TAIGAKORU is located to the Santa Claus office building next to Iittala & Marimekko and Swarowski.

Cradle ball is old,

traditional Lappish jewelry design.

Shaman drum jewelry series

is inspired by symbols of a shaman drum

Komsiopallo / Cradle ball OUR SHOPS : - Arctic Circle, Santa Claus Village - Rovaniemi, Shopping centre Rinteenkulma - Sodankylä, Sompiontie 4

Shaman drum

e-mail: info@taigakoru.fi +358 16 313070

EASY SHOPPING AT RINTEENKULMA! Rinteenkulma is Lapland’s largest shopping centre.

Situated conveniently in Rovaniemi centre, it offers a wide range of stores from international fashion to famous Finnish design brands.

Koskikatu 25, Rovaniemi www.rinteenkulma.fi OPENING HOURS OF SHOPS: Mon-Fri 10–18, Sat 10–16, Sun 12–16

DEPARTMENT STORES

• •

FINNISH DESIGN

Anttila – fashion, cosmetics, toys, home electronics, kitchenware Clas Ohlson – all things home, multimedia, electrical, leisure and hardware

FASHION

• Lindex – women’s fashion • Lindex Kids • Intersport • Ecco Shop • Koo Kenkä Shoe Store • Knitting store Lankamaailma

ANTTILA DEPARTMENT STORE Mon-Fri 9–20, Sat 9–18, Sun 12–16

M • Marimekko a r i m e k ko Marttiini knives • • Taigakoru goldsmith’s workshop • Jewelry shops Pulkkinen, Kultajousi, Timanttinen • Interior Design Shop

FOOD & GROCERIES Ecco

• Restaurants Feenix & Comico • Café Spice Ice & Café Break • Alko State Liquor Store • K-Supermarket

Ta i

g a koru

K-SUPERMARKET ALKO ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016 11 Mon-Sat 8–21, Sun 12–21 Mon-Fri 9–20, Sat 9–18

FASHION

Dressing up

IN STYLE AT T H E A R C T I C C I R C L E

Discover the coolest fashion brands, available in Rovaniemi, the fashion capital of Lapland!

HUGO BOSS Hugo Boss is a brand that needs to introduction. Established in 1924, it became a symbol of stylish men’s clothing around the world. Hugo Boss Summer 2016 collection is inspired by natural landscapes, and defined by clean, sculptural lines.

Softly constructed pieces feature sportswear elements and green highlights in a journey to the waterside. Available at: Pukumies Clothing Store, Lordi Square, Rovaniemi.

BY MARLENE BIRGER

By Malene Birger is an international premium clothing brand, offering affordable luxury with an artistic angle to it The hallmarks of the brand may be its clean lines, sharp tailoring and bold details, but what really makes it resonate with women everywhere is the fact that the pieces are so easy-to-wear while still looking modern and relevant. Available at:

By EMKA Store, Rovaniemi

MARIMEKKO Marimekko is the ageless Finnish brand, found in 1951. The brand’s hallmarks are its vibrand colors and bold patterns, most famous of which is the Unikko (Poppy) print, used actively in clothes and kitchenware.

Marimekko’s Summer 2016 collection features lively and organic prints, and easyto-wear styles for women. Available at: Marimekko shops at Rinteenkulma Shopping centre and Santa Claus Village.

LA-KEUS LA-KEUS is a new clothing brand from Finland. Developed by the Dudesons crew, renowned for their reckless stunt TV show, LAKEUS posesses both stubborn rock’n‘roll attitude, as well as a timeless feel. LA-KEUS draws inspiration from the wonderful Finnish countryside, its endless summer nights and Finnish creative madness. Available at: MODA, Shopping Centre Sampo, Rovaniemi

MAKIA Makia is a Finnish brand that has been around for 15 years, but now is making a real breakthrough around the world. Makia produces easily approachable clothing that stand the test of time with a lightly nostalgic feel. Check their 2016 collection, it has some amazing products and calm, deep-blue colors. Available at: Carlings & JC Jeans Company, Shopping Centre Revontuli, Rovaniemi 12

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

The best brands in the town!

SAMPOKESKUS, ROVANIEMI MON-FRI 10-19, SAT 10-17, SUN 12-16

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

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Revontuli SHOPPING CENTRE

Revontuli Shopping Centre is located right in the centre of Rovaniemi.

Revontuli holds around 30 shops that offer fashion for the entire family, beauty products, sports and well-being products, books, games, and much more!

R

evontuli is the Finnish word for Aurora Borealis — the colourful phenomenon of light in the Arctic sky. Revontuli Shopping Centre is a place for many gatherings, and the venue for the latest phenomena in the worlds of fashion, beauty, leisure, health, and well-being. Revontuli is also a proud partner of Santa Claus, that is why Revontuli is the Official Shopping Centre of Santa Claus. He often visits events at Revontuli, especially during the events and holidays.

BEAUTY & FASHION

Revontuli is a fashion trendsetter in Lapland, as it holds a great number of international and Finnish fashion and beauty shops. There are plenty of fashion ideas for the whole family to be discovered at H&M, KappAhl, and Seppälä. If you are looking for international brands, head to JC Jeans Company — there you will find jeans labels such as Levi’s, Diesel, G-Star, or Replay, as well as other casualwear. Luhta Brand Store provides an excellent selection for sports enthusiasts and men and women with a relaxed lifestyle. One of our newcomers is Carlings that showcases a brilliantly refreshing range of fashion for youngsters and those who are young at heart! Be sure to check their collection that contains such

BEAUTY & FASHION • H&M • Luhta Brand Store • Carlings • Polarn O. Pyret • Dressmann • KappAhl • BikBok 14 14

• Kicks • Ur&Penn • Reima • Seppälä • JC Jeans Company • Change • Skopunkten

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016 ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

SPORTS AND WELL-BEING

There are two great sports stores in Revontuli — Stadium and TopSport. In addition to sports equipment, they have great selections of sports and outdoor clothing for both men and women, as well as shoes.

Also, if you want to improve your well-being with natural products and vitamins, make sure to pop by the Life health shop. brands as Nudie Jeans, Vans, and Nordic design by Makia. BikBok has lots to offer for young fashionistas, and Kicks presents a great assortment of perfumery and cosmetics for a reasonable price. Looking for new dancing shoes? Head to Skopunkten and find some great bargains! A little hint: they usually offer 3 pairs of shoes for the price of 2, so you can get new shoes for the whole family at once! And speaking about kids — there are two specialised children’s stores in Revontuli. Polarn O. Pyret offers timeless Scandinavian design for children aged 0 to 12. Great deals are waiting at Reima Outlet — the famous Finnish label for quality indoor and outdoor clothing for children.

Koskikatu 27 B, Rovaniemi SHOPS OPEN Mon–Fri 10–20, Sat 10–18, Sun 12–16 S-MARKET Mon–Fri 8–21, Sat 8–21, Sun 12–18

SPECIALIST STORES

Revontuli houses a great bookshop called Suomalainen Kirjakauppa, where you can find books, games, maps, and art supplies. If you want to have a mobile internet, Revontuli is the right place to get it, as there are shops by Finland’s three major mobile phone operators.

Remember to stop by the post office and send postcards to your friends and relatives!

FOOD&GROCERY

There are lots of healthy and tasty snacks, coffee and tea to choose from at our Picnic café. We also have a large supermarket where you can buy food and household supplies. See you at Revontuli!

SPORTS & WELLBEING • Stadium • TopSport • Life Health Shop GROCERY & FOOD • Picnic Cafe • S-Market

SPECIALIST STORES • Suomalainen Kirjakauppa • Instrumentarium • Post Office • Elisa Shop • Sonera Kauppa • DNA

SAMPOKESKUS SHOPPING CENTRE Sampokeskus Shopping Centre is an oasis of trends, fashion, and beauty. Here you will find comprehensive fashion stores, a variety of cafés and restaurants, a tourist info, cinema, Fitness24Seven gym, pharmacy and a tourist office.

S

ampokeskus is situated right in the heart of Rovaniemi, on the famous Lordi Square. It is easily accessible from the promenade street and nearby hotels. The shopping centre offers a diverse selection of almost 40 stores and various cafés and services, complemented by a cinema and a parking hall.

There is a wide selection of fashion stores at Sampokeskus.

If you are searching for international brands such as Björn Borg, Ted Baker, Esprit, Gant, Marc O’Polo, etc., head straight to Momenti Boutique and MODA shop. The two floors of MODA house a particularly large selection of quality fashion for both men

and women. Explore our numerous boutiques for the latest and reasonably priced fashion — Gina Tricot, Vero Moda, Jack&Jones, Cubus and Dressmann. Affordable accessories can be found at Glitter, and suitcases and bags at Laukkutalo. Be sure to pop

by The Bodyshop and Attirance shops to discover some fine natural cosmetics.

At Sampokeskus Biorex cinema you can watch the latest blockbusters in their original language. There are several cafés with a large assortment of snacks and drinks. There is also a versatile souvenir shop, Fitness24Seven gym, and a tourist office where you can find information about Rovaniemi.

OPENING HOURS

Mon–Fri 10–19, Sat 10–17, Sun 12–16.

ADDRESS

Maakuntakatu 29–31 Lordi Square, Rovaniemi centre www.sampokeskus.fi

FREE PARKING

Our underground parking hall offers 1 hour free parking.

By EMKA is a clothing store right in the heart of Rovaniemi. We offer the latest trends in women’s fashion from the world’s most known brands. At our boutique you can find dresses, jackets, skirts, tops, jeans, shoes and more!

Mon–Fri 10–18, Sat 10–16

Rovakatu 24, Rovaniemi

+358 40 125 75 11

www.fb.com/byemkarovaniemi

LOCAL CUISINE: ROVANIEMI

EASY DRINKS & DISHES

Cafe&Bar 21

CAFE&BAR 21 is a modern café and cocktail bar right in the heart of Rovaniemi. Opened in 2012, it quickly became a second living room for many locals who enjoy its selection of dishes and drinks, and the relaxed atmosphere. The owners, a dynamic duo of Juha and Pekka, are always up to something exciting. Recently, the café got a facelift as the design and the furniture were renewed.

ARCTIC FLAVOURS & PRODUCE

Aitta Deli&Dine restaurant, Mandragora Coffee Shop, and Ounas Angus meat products IN 2015, three bold entrepreneurs, Kristian Sievers, Olli-Matti Huotari, and Outi Junnunkauppi had a brilliant idea of providing a broad range of local & organic flavours, all under one roof. This is how Aitta Deli&Dine was born. Situated in Rovaniemi city centre, it features a local-food restaurant, a coffee and tea shop, and a butcher’s shop. All dishes and produce enjoyed here are locally grown, ecological, or otherwise of premium quality.

AITTA DELI & DINE RESTAURANT

SWEET&SAVORY

Café & Bar 21 is famous for its waffles that come with sweet or savoury toppings. For example, try the sesame salmon waffle (photo). The selection also includes salads, filled potatoes, and risottos. Looking for a quick & easy snack? Go for the Finnish Tapas Menu! For dessert, you have a choice of waffles (try the Blueberry breeze!), cakes, and Finnish gelatos.

BAR & DRINKS

Juha and Pekka are passionate about their drinks and cocktails. Have a go at the house mojitos, flavoured with local Lappish berries! There is also a carefully selected choice of quality wines to complement the dishes.

Address: Rovakatu 21, www.cafebar21.fi 16

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

Aitta Deli&Dine is a versatile restaurant with a moderate price range. Lunch is served on weekdays and Saturdays from 11:00 to 15:00 for €10. There are several tasty dishes to choose from — meat, fish, vegetarian, and sausages. The starter salad, soup, and bread are included in the price. There is a great selection of coffee, brewed tea, and self-made pastries available every day. In the evenings there is a short but smart à la carte menu. It offers many delicious appetizers, such as a selection of game meats or a platter of local fish, and several main dishes with choices from reindeer and steak to fish and forest mushrooms.

Fish comes from the local fishermen, and the meat, reindeer meat, and sausages are delivered from the fellow butcher’s shop Ounas Angus. Sausages are served daily, and they make a tasty snack (photo)! If, on a Sunday, you find yourself wondering where to get a bite to eat in Rovaniemi, look no further! A generous brunch is served from 11:00 to 15:00, and for €20 you can enjoy an ‘All-You-Can-Eat’ Arctic cuisine buffet.

MANDRAGORA COFFEE & TEA SHOP

Mandragora shop offers the widest selection of coffee and tea in Rovaniemi. Granted, they are not produced locally, but they are the best hot drinks in town. Most of the beans sold here are Arabica beans (they are tasty and contain less caffeine), including the Fair Trade and organically grown choices. You can buy your coffee in the form of beans, or freshly ground on the spot. The Arabica beans are also used for all the coffee served at Aitta Deli&Dine, making their coffee the finest in town.

The assortment of teas is particularly impressive, containing dozens of options of black, green, mate, rooibos, and honeybush teas, as well as their flavoured variants.

And then there is chocolate — organic, flavoured, handmade — however you like it! If you are a chocolate fan, try the Zotter chocolate bars with different fillings!

OUNAS ANGUS BUTCHER’S SHOP

The story of Ounas Angus Farm dates back in 1975, when this family-owned business imported their first Aberdeen Angus bulls and cows from the USA. As their livestock grew, they made their quality meats available for regular customers. Their minced meat and steaks are very popular with the locals! Tourists are offered smoked reindeer and the Farm’s famous sausages, packed conveniently to be taken on a journey. Their shop also offers locally made natural berry products, such as jams and sauces. If you are looking for a small, tasty gift to take with you, go for a jar of my favourite cloudberry jam!

Address: Rovakatu 26, Rovaniemi, www.aittadeli.com, www.mandragora.fi

LOCAL CUISINE: ROVANIEMI

Top 3 of Lappish Cuisine REINDEER

GAME & LAPPISH CUISINE

Traditional restaurant ‘Nili’ in Rovaniemi WALKING THROUGH THE DOORS of restaurant Nili in downtown Rovaniemi brings you a mysterious feeling. The walls are decorated with wood and reindeer horn.

Traditional Sámi music is playing. Nili is known as one of Lapland’s best restaurants, and for good reason! Only the best local ingredients are used for the production of classic Lappish dishes as well as exciting modern creations. Here you can try fresh fish from the Lappish lakes, delicious reindeer dishes and, of course, game such as willow grouse or bear. These unique ingredients are provided by local fishermen, reindeer herders and hunters.

Willow grouse, for example, comes from a family of hunters in the Enontekiö region

of Northern Lapland. To spice things up, the restaurant uses berries and mushrooms bought from local gatherers.

Our feast begins with ‘Rovaniemi market’ — a collection of local hors d’oeuvres including salted salmon, reindeer pâté and sausage, fried ‘muikku’ fish and delicious whitefish caviar. A glass of cloudberry sparkling wine? Yes please! For the main course a reindeer steak, cooked to perfection, so smooth that it melts in your mouth. It is accompanied by parsnip purée and thyme sauce. Our dessert is baked cheese — a local ingredient that is a must to taste!

Be sure to make a reservation!

Address: Valtakatu 20. www.nili.fi

JAPANESE CUISINE

with a Lappish twist at ‘Wakkanai Sushi’

Reindeer is probably the most versatile ingredient used in Lappish cuisine. Although there are countless ways to prepare it, we suggest you start with the classic — sautéed reindeer. A plate of gently cooked reindeer meat and mashed potatoes, served with pickles and lingonberry jam. Simple and delicious!

FRESH FISH

Is there a better dish than the fresh catch of the day? Lappish lakes and rivers are abundant with different fish that will bring joy to your taste buds. Try, for example, marinated salmon as a starter, gently fried whitefish or pike perch, or even the tiny but delicious vendace!

LAPPISH BAKED CHEESE

SUSHI IS one of the world’s most popular foods nowadays. It is no wonder that a Japanese restaurant opened its doors in Rovaniemi in December 2015. Named after Japan’s most northern city, Wakkanai, it brings the pleasure of Japanese cuisine to locals and tourists alike. In addition to perfectly prepared classic maki and nigiri you can try dishes that you’ve probably never tasted before. For example, have

a go at miso soup with Lappish baked cheese or nigiri with raw reindeer meat (right photo)! These local flavours fit surprisingly well into the Japanese cuisine. Also a special four course ‘Japponia’ menu with a selection of Wakkanai’s best entrées, sushi and dessert is available for groups over 8 person upon reservation. Address: Valtakatu 23. www.wakkanai.fi

Lappish baked cheese is a must to try!

Baked cheese gets its name from the way it is made, by baking it in the oven, like bread. The taste is quite mellow and that’s why it is often enjoyed with stronger flavours such as cloudberries or honey.

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THE MIDNIGHT SUN

MEET SANTA CLAUS Rovaniemi is the Official Hometown of Santa Claus, and its best-known resident can be visited 365 days a year in Santa Claus Village, the city’s top attraction. In Santa Claus Village, you’ll be able to cross the Arctic Circle and enter the arctic region. Santa Claus’ Main Post Office is also a must, and various shops, cafés and restaurants make sure all needs are catered for. Meeting Santa Claus is included in many tours, so why not make a day out of fun summer activities topped off with a visit to Rovaniemi’s — some would even say the world’s — most famous character!

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The Midnight Sun season in Rovaniemi lasts from June until July, but nights are white from late May until early August. In the summer, virtually anything that can be done during the day can also be done in the middle of the night. One of the most accessible ways of seeing the Midnight Sun is simply strolling across Rovaniemi’s iconic Jätkänkynttilä Bridge and taking in the phenomenon. Alternatively, easy hikes on fell tops close to the city centre provide magnificent views of the city bathing in the golden light.

DEFINITE THINGS TO DO IN

ROVANIEMI

1. Meet Santa Claus 2. Cross the Arctic Circle 3. Experience the Midnight Sun 4. Feel the winter in the summer

(Northern Lights in Arktikum & the Ice Gallery in Santa Park)

5. Visit museums and science centres 6. See Ranua Wildlife Park 7. Explore Lappish nature 8. Join a summer event

SUMMER FUN WITH ANIMALS Meet furry friends even in the summer! Several husky and reindeer farms are open for visitors in the non-snowy season. Visits to reindeer farms include meeting reindeer and learning about the animals as well as the people herding them.

For huskies, summer is a mix of holidays and training for the coming winter. Farm visits give a chance to meet the dogs and cuddle with puppies even when it’s too warm for them to run.

Horseback riding along the banks of river Ounasjoki offers a chance to meet even more animals and experience Lappish nature in a less conventional manner. Saddle up!

DAYS AND NIGHTS ON THE RIVERS River cruises are terrific for exploring the waterways and seeing Rovaniemi from an alternative perspective. For more action-packed adventures, jet skiing is the way to go. Not only a great deal of fun, but a quick way to get around and visit a selection of spots on the river front, for example a science centre or a reindeer farm.

For fishermen and women, the rivers and lakes of Rovaniemi offer quite the options for catching perch, trout, pike and more — hire a guide and sink those hooks!

/visitrovaniemi.fi

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/rovaniemiofficial

@visitrovaniemi @visitrovaniemi ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016 #visitrovaniemi #Rovaniemi

ROVANIEMI ONLINE

www.visitrovaniemi.fi ROVANIEMI TOURIST INFO

Lordi’s Square, Maakuntakatu 29-31

Arctic Circle Hiking Area

Chirch Pond

The church pond near Rovaniemi Lutheran Church is a beautiful place to visit. It is very easy to reach, as it is situated just a stone’s throw away from The Arctic Circle Hiking Area, located the city centre. At the pond there is a small bo25 km north from Rovaniemi, offers nutanical garden, and the pond itself is surroundmerous amazing sceneries and spectaced by many rare Nordic plants. The best way ular rapids. There are many marked trails to enjoy the pond is to walk around it. The that are easy to explore. You don’t have to pond is also an area where birds like to go far from the road to see the wilderness, nest, and you can often see them busily or to find a lean-to for a picnic. There are nataking care of their offspring. In summer, ture trails that can be explored in just 30–60 there is an ice cream kiosk by the shore minutes, but you can surely — a lovely place to sit on a bench, relax go on a longer hike if you and enjoy the summer’s beauty! so desire.

Rovaniemi’s natural

ATTRACTIONS Santavaara Fell

There are many wonderful places around Rovaniemi that the locals favour.

As a native, I want to share some of my favourite places for a relaxing walk or hike!

Santavaara Fell is located by the eastern shore of River Ounasjoki, less than 10 km north from Rovaniemi city centre. You can get there by car or bike, just by following the motorway called Ounasjoen itäpuolentie until you reach the Santavaarantie track. From there you can either go on by bike or slow down and carry on by foot. On top of the fell there is a lean-to called ‘The King’s Lean-to’, where you can have a picnic. On an August night, this is a great place to admire the glorious colours of sunset over the Ounasjoki Fell.

The QR-code will tell you the exact location!

Ounasvaara Fell

Ounasvaara Fell, situated only 3 km from the city centre, is the jewel of Rovaniemi. There are many forest trails for hiking and mountain biking. In mid-summer it offers a great vantage point for watching the Midnight Sun. You can find your way up to the Sky Hotel Ounasvaara, situated on top of the fell, and The Devil’s Churns are natufrom there start exploring rally formed potholes dating the area on your own. back to the Ice Age. There are 14 of them in the Rovaniemi area, among them three of the largest potholes in Finland. The biggest pothole is 15 m deep and 8 m wide.

This amazing natural site is located Koivusaari is a very picturesque island, situated close 25 km from Rovaniemi and it is free to Rovaniemi centre. Getting there is a bit of a chalof charge. lenge, but one well worth your while to take. The island is an oasis of wildlife, as many birds like to hang out there. In summer, the island is also the home of a flock of sheep from a local farm. They are a little shy, but still possible to spot. The island is an easy place to navigate, as there is a nature trail that leads around it. In late August and September, the island is my favourite place to spot the first Northern Lights of the season, as it offers a panoramic view over the night sky. The island is situated between city centre and the Citymarket mall. You can reach it by walking towards Citymarket from the city centre. When you pass the second river, cross the motorway via the bridge underpass.

Walk back across the river and you’ll find the start of the trail.

Devil´s Churns

Koivusaari island

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Culture highlights

NAM NAM – ARCTIC FOOD

3.6.2016–23.4.2017 @ Arktikum

Culture in Lapland

What does the Arctic taste like? At first glance barren Arctic nature seems to offer limited amount of nutrition. In reality things are different.

Visit Arktikum and find out more!

Lappish culture is unique and colourful.

Take a deep breath and dive into the museums and science centres dedicated to Lappish culture in Rovaniemi!

D COME TO FINLAND

19.8–30.10.2016 @ Arktikum Are posters art? What happens when you combine posters, art and tourism? ‘Come to Finland’ exhibition answers all these questions with posters that tell the story of Finland as a travel destination and how it became the Land of romance.

RUNNING TIME

18.3–21.8.2016 @ Korundi The theme of the exhibition is the continuous time and the eternal moment. Time appears in many different ways and the experiences of it change from a moment to another. We live through transient minutes but our life contains everlasting matters, too. Visit this exhibition at Korundi House of Culture.

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ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

id you know that there were dwellings in Rovaniemi as far back as around 6000 BC? Or that the indigenous Sámi people spoke 12 distinct languages, and that the modern Sámi now live in four different countries? The Arktikum museum & science centre provides a great deal of information on these topics. Situated on the shore of River Kemijoki, its 172-metre glass corridor has become one of the symbols of Rovaniemi. Arktikum houses the Arctic Centre and Regional Museum of Lapland, whose exhibitions lead their visitors on a journey around the Finnish Lapland and beyond. How did the indigenous people survive in the harsh conditions of the Arctic?

How are their lives affected by the climate change today? What do the Sámi languages sound like? Answers to these questions are found in Arktikum. The lives of Laplanders and Rovaniemi dwellers are equally exciting. Their traditional livelihoods include hunting, fishing and reindeer herding, and an entire exhibition is dedicated to this topic. And, even in summer, you can experience the Northern Lights in the Arktikum 3D-theatre!

Science Centre Pilke is located right next door to Arktikum. Built

almost entirely out of wooden materials, Pilke is an architectural marvel by itself. Forests play a major role in the lives of all Finns, and Pilke is all about the forest. The ground floor houses an exhibition dedicated to learning about the forest in fun and interactive ways.

Explore the forest with all your senses and from various angles!

Get behind the wheel of a forestry machine, climb into a bird house, sing karaoke on top of an anthill and see the myriad of products that forests provide us.

Korundi House of Culture is a living part of Rovaniemi’s history.

The building, erected in 1933 as a bus station, is one of the few that survived WWII. Today, it is the home of Rovaniemi Art Museum, which has one of the finest collections of contemporary Finnish art, as well as the Chamber Orchestra of Lapland. The art exhibitions feature works from 1940 onwards until the present day by artists from all around Finland, Lapland included. There are also many temporary exhibitions that offer insights into the Arctic dimension and the Finnish soul. In summer 2016, do not miss the exhibition ‘Running Time’, or the impressive paintings by Reidar Särestöniemi, who has often been called ‘Picasso of the North’.

CULTURE PASS TO ARKTIKUM, PILKE & KORUNDI Adult 20€, Children (7–15 yrs.) 10€. Valid for 7 days.

ARKTIKUM Pohjoisranta 4 PILKE Ounasjoentie 6 KORUNDI Lapinkävijäntie 4

www.arktikum.fi www.sciencecentre-pilke.fi www.korundi.fi

Santa’s wonderful Summer

Meet Santa at his office and send postcards from across the Arctic Circle!

A

s the nights turn white at Santa’s place of residence, you know that summer has come. Still, summer does not automatically mean vacation time for Santa nor his elves.

After all, millions of gifts that Santa delivers at Christmas do not materialise out of thin air just like that!

Santa’s hardworking elves are busy all year round, making sure that everything is ready when Christmastime comes!

Of course, Santa’s schedule is far less busy in summer, and he has plenty of time to enjoy the nature and meet his guests at the Arctic Circle. Santa is a passionate nature lover and likes to go hiking, fishing, and berry picking whenever he can. There are plenty of opportunities for doing just that in Rovaniemi, as the sun shines around the clock.

Rudolf and his team spend the summer training their speed skills. If you want to take a look at their preparations, and feed them some tasty moss, visit the reindeer farm situated right behind Santa’s office!

There are plenty of exciting things to do for everyone at the Santa Claus Village in summer. Arctic Circle crossing, and Santa’s Post Office are open daily all year round. Here you can get your postcards labelled with

Santa Claus Village LOCATION

Santa’s stamp and send them right away, or leave them for the elves to deliver for next Christmas!

Another exciting sight is the snowmobile exhibition, where Santa has collected all his favourite snowmobile models since the 1970s. If you get hungry, pay a visit to the Lappish tepee near the Post Office. There you can try the world’s tastiest salmon, glow-fried by an open fire.

Don’t forget about gifts! There are many Finnish design products to shop for, such as Iittala tableware, Marttiini knives, Taigakoru jewellery, and Marimekko clothes, as well as numerous souvenirs made of wood and reindeer horn.

Definite places to visit in Santa Claus Village!

7 km North from Rovaniemi Joulumaantie street, Arctic Cirlce 96930 Rovaniemi

SANTA CLAUS OFFICE

Every day 10–17.

1.6–31.8 every day 9–18

BUS NO. 8 / SANTA VILLAGE

Bus #8 is a cheaper way to reach Santa Claus Village. The bus departs from Rovaniemi railway station and passes by the city center. A great stop to hop on is around Sokos Vaakuna Hotel (photo). Download timetable:

SANTA’S REINDEER FARM

CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION

SANTA’S SALMON PLACE

Behind the Santa’s Office

Christmas house

Next to Santa’s Post Office

Want to see how Santa’s reindeer are doing in summer? Head to Santa’s Reindeer Farm, see the newly born baby reindeer, and feed them some tasty birch leaves!

Christmas exhibitions tell stories about Christmas traditions in different countries. The exhibition is located at Christmas House. Free entry.

Santa’s Salmon Place is an authentic Lappish tepee, where salmon is freshly glow-fried by an open fire! This will probably your best salmon dish ever!

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

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6 x Activities for kids There are numerous ways to have fun on the Arctic Circle both for children and for those who are young at heart. Here are our 5 top tips!

1. Arctic Animals Wildlife is present literally everywhere in Finnish Lapland. The chance to bump into some Arctic Animals are relatively high, whether you plan it or not! Squirrels and rabbits are common even in city centres. Reindeer spend the summer in the forests, but as they are more numerous in Lapland than people, encounters with them are very common. You can also make your acquaintance with Arctic Animals by visiting local reindeer and husky farms.

There you will see and feed the lovely animals and, if the temperature is not hot enough, you might even get a ride in a husky or reindeer sleigh. One particularly great place to see animals is Ranua Wildlife Park some 80 km south of Rovaniemi.

There you can meet polar and brown bears, wolves, wolverines, and many other species!

2. Lappish handicrafts Lappish people have always been skilful, and the local handicraft traditions are still respected. If you want to experience how authentic jewellery and artisan souvenirs are made, visit the Kangasniemi handicraft workshop 7 km north of Rovaniemi. Here you can also start learning handicraft skills yourself, and will even get to take a self-made souvenir home with you!

Booking & info at www.hornwork.fi

3. Indoor games А great way to have fun is to do it while exercising! In adventure park HopLop you can play every day, in rain or shine! HopLop offers an environment where parents and children can exercise and play together, and enjoy moments of success according to their own preferences and daring. It’s easy to spend a whole day here!

Napapiirintie 41, Rovaniemi, www.hoplop.fi

Rovaniementie 29, Ranua, www.ranuazoo.com

A DV E N T U RE PA R K

2 X FAMILY F U N! HopLop and RolloHalli offer loads of fun through games and excercise for the whole family!

In HopLop kids will find huge multi-storied labyrinths, daring obstacles, bouncy castles, slides, pipes, bridges, mini-cars and electronic games!

RolloHalli is filled with trampolines, foampits, climbing walls and a bowl. Here you can also try skating, parkour and big-air jumps!

UNLIMITED PLAY TIME! HopLop: Adults 0€, infants under 1 yr 0€, 1–2 yrs 9€, 3 yrs and over 14€. RolloHalli: day ticket 14€. Ticket to both parks 17€.

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ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

Napapiirintie 14, Rovaniemi (see central map)

Opening hours: Mon–Sun 10–20

www.hoplop.fi | www.rollohalli.fi

4. Forest wonders New experiences and discoveries wait for you at Science Centre Pilke in Rovaniemi! The northern forest is not only Finland’s most cherished treasure, but it is also the main theme at this interactive playground. Here children and adults can get behind the wheel of a forestry machine, sing forest karaoke, climb into a bird house, and make a selfie on a giant screen!

Ounasjoentie 6, Rovaniemi www.sciencecentrepilke.fi

5. Travelling Carnival

6. Angry Birds Park

The Finnish Carnival (Suomen Tivoli) visits Lapland every summer. Together it brings lots of joy and amusement to the local people and tourist alike.

Hop on the giant Ferris Wheel and see the local surroundings from up high! There are many other speedy rides as well, such as carousels, train rides, roller coasters, sling shots etc.Timetable: 24 June–11 July 2016 – Rovaniemi 15–20 July 2016 – Tornio, Aittakenttä 23 July–1 August 2016 – Kemi, Pajarinranta

The Angry Birds were born in Finland, and you can find them here everywhere! In Rovaniemi, there is even an Angry Birds Activity Park where children of all ages can enjoy various activities on and around the Angry Birds figures. The park is close to the city centre and the admittance is free. The playground is full of fun equipment such as the giant slingshot, ropewalk, slides and swings.

Valtakatu 4, Rovaniemi, close to the river shore, between the bridges.

Rovaniemi: Ounasjoen itäpuolentie 23, near Citymarket

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Ranua W I L DL I F E PA R K — Home for the Arctic Animals!

Summer 1.6–31.8 every day 9–19. All year round every day 10–16.

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ituated 80 km south from Rovaniemi, Ranua Wildlife Park is a home for over 50 species of 200 different Arctic animals. The Park offers an opportunity to see the animals in as authentic environment for them as possible. Ranua Wildlife Park is open every day of the year and it is Lapland’s leading tourist attraction for the families!

Our luxuriously equipped Gulo-Gulo holiday village, situated just a stone’s throw away from the Wildlife Park, offers everything you need for a comfortable vacation!

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

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www.ranuazoo.com | www.gulo.fi

LAPPISH DESIGN

The story of

‘ K U K SA’ The Lappish wooden cup for any occasion.

Left: Lappish wooden cup ‘Kuksa’ is used for drinking hot and cold beverages.

Above 1: Extremely dense burl, found in some birch trees, is used for making Kuksas.

W

hen a young Laplander reaches a certain age, he will receive two items. One is a traditional Finnish knife called ‘puukko’. He will carry it during his hiking trips outdoors. Sometimes a son inherits a knife from his father. Not only boys, but also girls get a ‘puukko’. Girls also become skilled at using their knives. The second item is ‘Kuksa’ — a cup made out of a solid piece of wood that will serve its owner for decades, if not a lifetime.

RESPECTING TRADITIONS

The invention of Kuksa is usually attributed to the indigenous people of Lapland — the Sámi. For centuries, however, such cups were produced all over Scandinavia. Back then wood was the only resource at hand, and flexible enough to take on almost any shape. Most of the tableware was made in a similar way. The tradition of making a Kuksa was passed on for generations. Nowadays, it is not only a much better way to enjoy drinks, but a means to conserve nature. A cup that lasts for years will spare us of many disposable plastic cups.

TRUE CRAFSTMANSHIP

Making a Kuksa is not an easy task. It requires skill and craftsmanship. It all starts with a choice of material. Making a long-lasting Kuksa requires the use of a spe24

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

Above 2: Kuksas received their rough shape and await boiling in salted water.

cial part of tree — a burl or round growth that can sometimes be found in birch trees.

The wood of such burls does not have growth rings and is usually very dense. The burl should be a single piece big enough to make one whole cup, but sometimes one can harvest giant burls with enough material for several Kuksas. After a rough cup shape is carved, the wooden pieces are boiled in salted water. This step will intensify the strength of the wood even more.

Next, the Kuksa is polished and oiled. There are still a few important steps left until the Kuksa will be ready for use.

BAPTIZING A KUKSA

The first step involves carving the owner’s name to the side of the cup. A Kuksa is considered a personal item, like a toothbrush, which is not eagerly shared with others.

The second step involves “baptizing” the Kuksa. Before the owner of the cup can take his first sip from it, the Kuksa needs to be soaked overnight in strong alcohol, whiskey or cognac. Wood is an absorbing material, and its natural flavour is revealed with the beverage. After “baptism” the cup will release a fine flavour of alcohol, which will give a fine touch to the taste of your coffee!

ONE CUP TO DRINK THEM ALL!

A Kuksa can be used for the drinking of any beverage. Finns usually have it strapped to their belt, along with the ‘puukko’ knife, when they go hiking. For the cleaning of

a Kuksa you may use only water or snow — soap is not allowed. If it gets dirty after some years, you can clean it with sandpaper, oil it and “baptize” it again!

BUYING A KUKSA

Kuksa cups can be bought in many souvenir shops, however not all Kuksas are equal in quality. The material and craftsmanship cost money, so there is a temptation to procuce cheaper Kuksas that only resemble the authentic ones in shape, but not in function.

When buying a Kuksa, look for the natural texture, not a laquered one, because laquer seals the material and it cannot be baptized.

Also look for natural patterns that change color from bright to dark, as they are common for burl material. A good ‘simple’ Kuksa will cost around 40€ and a Kuksa, decorated with reindeer horn, even more. I, personally, buy my Kuksas at Marttiini knife stores, who only have the authentic cups (photo).

Marttiini Factory shops in Rovaniemi: The Old Factory, Vartiokatu 32.

Santa Claus Village, Santa’s Gift House.

Shopping Centre Rinteenkulma, centre.

Rovaniemi Holiday Home

Apartments right in Rovaniemi centre.

Great prices!

Like a local in Rovaniemi!

Rovaniemi Holiday Home offers spacious and cosy one, two and three-bedroom apartments, situated in the city centre.

All of the shops and sites are right nearby!

Apartments are equipped with a TV, microwave, coffeemaker, kettle, linens, bedding, and cooking utilities. In our flats you can experience Rovaniemi like a local!

BOOKING & INFO rovaniemiholidayhome.com matti.henttunen@kunnes.fi +358 40 509 6020 ADDRESS Pekankatu 8, 96200 Rovaniemi

FAMILY HOTEL IN ROVANIEMI Have a cosy stay at Hotel Aakenus!

AAKENUS is a family-friendly hotel, located in a peaceful area, only 200 m from Rovaniemi centre. We offer quality, clean room at affordable prices.

We have 45 hotel rooms (single, double, triple & family), as well as 12 separate apartments, situated close to the hotel.

All rooms have a bathroom, TV and free wifi. Several rooms are suitable for allergy sufferers. Some rooms are equipped with a fridge.

Double hotel room

FACTS ABOUT AAKENUS

Tasty Scandinavian buffet dinner is served Mon–Sat 18.00–21.00 for a price of 15€!

Available to everyone!

Koskikatu 47, Rovaniemi

• 45 single, double, triple rooms • incuding 4 family rooms • 12 apartments with bedrooms, kichen, living room and bathroom • 50 m from town’s swimming pool • accommodation prices include •

buffet breakfast, wifi, parking, use of common sauna in the hotel reception open 24/7 +358 16 342 2051

Apartment

Kitchen in the apartment

Scandinavian dinner

Bathroom in the hotel room 25

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

hotelli.aakenus@co.inet.fi

www.hotelliaakenus.net

Design from

L A P L A N D Lappish design draws its inspiration from Lapland’s rugged nature, its fells, forests, and streams. What’s going on with Lappish design in 2016? Will famous brands still have some new and exciting things to offer, and who will be the new faces waiting to impress us with their fresh visions? I set on a small design exploration journey in my hometown of Rovaniemi, the capital of Arctic Design.

Ilahu surfboards by Treeform. Photo by Jani Kärppä.

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ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

Left: Juha Janger in his Taigakoru Workshop with golden nuggets.

Right: The Arctic Dressmakers, Anni Alatalo with ‘Suodji’ iPad shell and Maarit Bergman with reindeer skin shoes.

GOLDEN EXPERTISE

I

am standing outside an ordinary grey building in Rovaniemi. It houses a goldsmith’s workshop called Taigakoru, with jewellers whose expertise is literally golden. Taigakoru was founded in 1981 by a talented goldsmith named Juha Janger. The workshop’s name translates as “Jewel from Taiga”. In 1982, Juha struck fame by winning a design competition with his Ptarmigan jewel series. Now, years later, Juha still runs the workshop, employing six people as well as himself.

Taigakoru is known for its original style influenced by the Lappish nature and animals, and the Sami culture. Their collection includes the Northern Lights series, made in the shape of aurora arches, and an impressive Lapland Nature series with figures of animals, birds, and plants. Taigakoru’s best known products, however, are rings with gold nuggets.

— Our gold nuggets come from River Lemmenjoki in Lapland. Their value is several times higher than that of ordinary gold, reveals Juha. — The gold nuggets make each ring unique, even though they are part of a series, he explains.

The company also produces tailored wedding rings, truly unique in every way.

— Using 3D modelling, we can make rings that consist of two parts that fit each other perfectly. One of the rings will be an engagement ring, and the other one can be given on the wedding day, Juha describes.

According to Juha, 3D modelling helps to cut down the production cost and time, which is necessary in order to compete in

the same market with countries where labour costs are lower. However, Juha does not worry about competition much, as his company specialises in truly exclusive products.

— We combine skilled handwork with the latest 3D technologies, explains Juha. — This enables us to make any kind of product with stellar precision.

Other Taigakoru products include jewellery for which inspiration is drawn from the Sami culture and shamanist beliefs. The Shaman Drum series is based on the symbols real shamans marked on their drums and used for predicting the future.

‘Risku’ brooches, glistening decorated disks, were used by the Sami on festive occasions, and cradle balls, ‘Komsiopallot’, were hung on cradles to protect babies from bad spirits. While their gold products are indeed costly, the Taigakoru silver jewellery is very affordable for everyone, and can make a good souvenir or gift to take with you.

DRESSMAKING REDISCOVERED I continue my journey to the centre of Rovaniemi, where my next design target is located. In the age when most clothes are made in Asia, local production is often a rarity. This, however, did not stop four brave women, Maarit Bergman, Tiina Lehtisalo, Annaleena Hurtig and Anni Alatalo.

In 2013, they started a joint venture — Arctic Dressmakers (Arktiset ompelijat) — and today they run a small shop in Rovaniemi centre, where they make tailored dresses and sell their clothes and souvenirs.

— We want to bring dressmaking business back to Lapland, says Anni Alatalo, one of the Arctic Dressmakers, who also works as

TAIGAKORU PRODUCTS AVAILABLE AT FACTORY SHOPS:

Rovaniemi: Shopping Centre Rinteenkulma, Santa Claus Village (Santa’s Office). Sodankylä: Sompiontie 4. www.taigakoru.fi

their spokesperson.

— In order to reach our goal, we decided to join forces, establish a common working space, and start a brick-and-mortar shop, easily accessible to anyone interested in Lappish design, Anni adds.

Maarit Bergman, for example, has been working as a dressmaker for nearly 20 years. Together the ladies produce a wide assortment of products ranging from shoes to clothes and hats, and work with various materials including felt and reindeer skin.

One of their most successful products to date is ‘Suodji’ — a soft iPad shell, made out of traditional materials.

— ‘Suodji’ is produced by Tiina Lehtisalo out of felt, reindeer fur, and skin. It means “cover” in Sámi, the language of Lapland’s indigenous people, explains Anni.

Another famous product is the locally manufactured Arctic Doll. Maarit Bergman makes the colourful Lappish costumes for the dolls. A selection of clothes, such as shirts, is also available at the shop.

— So far we have only been testing a few things, but we are going to launch our first joint Arctic Design Clothing Collection in autumn 2016, says Anni.

The ladies need not create their first collection alone. A professional designer from the University of Lapland will advise them in product design and how to combine their skills and effort in the production of their clothes.

If you are in Rovaniemi, be sure to visit their shop at Valtakatu 21.

ARCTIC DRESSMAKERS

Valtakatu 21, Rovaniemi. www.arktisetompelijat.com ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

27

Left: Wim Pauwels at his workshop.

REINVENTING LAPPISH DESIGN Wim Pauwels was not born in Lapland, but he always felt he belonged in the north. In 2010, he left his home country Belgium and came to Rovaniemi as an exchange student. He fell in love with Lapland, and a year later he returned to Rovaniemi for good. For a few years he earned his living as a tourist guide, but that was not his goal in life.

Back in his hometown Lier he had studied to become a carpenter. Since he was 13, he had worked in his uncle’s workshop, specialising in boat interior carpentry. Inspired by the Finnish classic designers such as Alvar Aalto and Kaj Frank, he started his own workshop ‘The Interior Cafe’ in 2014.

He still combines small jobs with his design passion, but as the number of orders is growing, he is anxious to make his entire living from his workshop. Currently, Wim rents a space at the outskirts of Rovaniemi, and this is where we meet today.

— I had to start slowly, because it takes time to find clients and I am doing everything by myself, Wim says. — I operate a webshop, develop the products, and sell them online.

— The idea is to put my products in coffee houses or airports, so that people can use them in a natural environment, get to know them, and possibly buy them later, Wim reveals. — That is what the name “Interior Cafe” stands for.

The trademark characteristics of his products are high quality, fair trade, and sustainability.

— Everything has been made here, from pine, and all wood I use is obtained locally, — he explains. — I also use 100% natural paints and waxes.

Wim’s thinking has been greatly affected by the northern mentality, and classic Finnish designers. However, he wants to add his vision to the design that has inspired him.

— What motivates me is the fact that nobody has come up with anything new since the 1950s and 1960s, he reckons. — Young 28

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

designers make new things for big Finnish brands, but they want to stay classic and labour on with the old Aalto-like design.

Interior Cafe’s product line is still narrow, but it is rapidly expanding. It includes furniture, made by Wim Pauwels, as well as home and kitchen accessories by his fellow designers.

Currently Wim’s website offers his own Pineline series of chairs, available in several vibrant colours, Dingdong clocks, designed

by Paolo Minola from Italy but made by Wim Pauwels, and Susivilla textiles, also made in Rovaniemi.

It’s time for me to leave this busy young man and let him get on with his work.

INTERIOR CAFE PRODUCTS

Available at: www.theinteriorcafe.com, www.crowdyhouse.com

SHARP AS A FINNISH KNIFE Just a few minutes’ walk from Wim’s workshop, and I find myself at Marttiini Knife Factory. The company was established in 1928 by Janne Marttiini, a famous blacksmith who travelled around Lapland, selling his knives and preaching to people.

In 1932, the Marttiini name became famous when Janne won a knife competition where he presented his own Finnish knife

Above: Aino chairs of Pineline series by Interior Cafe.

model — the Lynx. Now, almost 85 years later, the model is still produced here in Rovaniemi.

When I enter the production floor of the factory, two things immediately catch my eye. The first is the sheer number of knives, scattered all over the place (the factory produces over 500,000 knives annually). The second is the number of young men and women working here. It seems that Janne Marttiini’s tradition is in good hands!

In addition to classics, Marttiini manufactures a wide range of modern and affordable knives for hiking, hunting, fishing, and even for mushroom picking. Finns are known for their love of the outdoors, so the knives are put to use. Marttiini’s modern designs draw inspiration from Lapland’s wildlife. Knives with bronze ferrules, made in the shape of an eagle, salmon, moose, etc., are pieces of beauty. And then there are knives decorated with reindeer horn. There is even a Shaman’s knife that has a small shaman’s drum, the ‘drumming’ of which is said to make the bad spirits go away.

The new in 2016 models are also shown to me — the Bronze Bird Damascus Knife, and the Annual Knife 2016 with reindeer horn.

Fortunately, I already own several Marttiini knives, so I only take a deep breath and continue my journey.

MARTTIINI KNIVES

Available at Marttiini Factory shops around Rovaniemi and online: www.marttiini.fi

A LAPPISH WAY TO REJOICE The last stop on my journey is at the Treeform company, also situated in Rovaniemi. It was established by cabinetmaker Jan Leutola and designer Maxim Narbrough, who offer the world their nature-inspired wood design. They have made items for Nokia, and delivered their ‘Ounas’ furniture series to Lapland’s airports. Their latest venture is the ‘Ilahu’ powsurf boards, dedicated to freeriding the soft powder snow. The ‘Ilahu’ brand was established by Jan nearly twenty years ago, when he created his first downhill skateboards.

After moving to Spain, he perfected his carpentry skills in his own workshop. Maxim, on the other hand, has been studying ecological design in the UK, and has even developed his own biocomposite material. After returning to their hometown of Rovaniemi in 2011, the duo started their Treeform venture, and that is when ‘Ilahu’ boards came back to life.

— ‘Ilahu’ means ‘to rejoice’ in Finnish, and it signifies the joy of carefree gliding and the feeling of being connected with nature, says Jan. The boards are made out of natural

Above: ‘Ounas’ furniture.

Left: Maxim (left) and Jan testing their ‘Ilahu’ boards on wild slopes.

materials, such as Finnish birch. They have no bindings, but are equipped with a traction pad. This, according to the duo, brings back the feeling of freedom and the joy of learning a new way to surf even to experienced riders.

— Freeriding is more popular than ever, claims Maxim.

According to him, it does not take much effort to enjoy powsurfing, as one can ride on ‘Ilahu’ boards even with hiking shoes on.

Testing and enjoying their products has led Jan and Maxim to explore the nearby fells of Rovaniemi. Design does not get closer to nature than that!

— Our first prototype, developed three years ago, was too round and too short, but

now we have perfected the shape, says Jan. The future seems bright indeed for the duo, as Treeform was recently chosen the Arctic Design Enterprise of the Year at the Arctic Design Week, an annual gathering held in Rovaniemi.

Currently, the boards are available from the ‘Ilahu’ site in three shape variations and with three topsheet options. In future, the company plans to implement Maxim’s biocomposite material, which is still a challenge to work with, as well as to set up a crowdfunding campaign, which will hopefully set ‘Ilahu’ boards on the way towards global fame.

ILAHU BOARDS: Available at www.ilahu.fi

Marttiini – the sharpest choice since 1928.

Bronze Bird Damascus

Suomi-Finland knife

Marttiini’s history begins in 1928 when blacksmith Janne Marttiin found a factory in Rovaniemi. Nowadays Marttiini makes traditional Finnish and Lappish knives, modern fishing and hunting knives, as well

Annual knife 2016

Factory shops in Rovaniemi OLD FACTORY RINTEENKULMA Mon–Fri 10–18 SHOPPING CENTRE Sat 10–16 Mon–Fri 10–18, Sat 10–17 Mid-June to Mid-August also on Sundays 12–16

SANTA CLAUS VILLAGE Arctic Circle Every day 10–17

as special collector’s knives. Make sure to visit Marttiini factory shops in Rovaniemi!

MARTTIINI WEBSHOP ALL ABOUT www.martti ini.fi LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

29

A journey into the

WILDERNESS Hiking in Pyh채-Luosto National Park

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ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

T

he best hiking season in Lapland starts in August. Although the nights are already getting darker, daylight still lasts around 16–18 hours. There are many mosquitos out there, but their worst season is already over. We pack our backpacks and start on a two-hour drive from Rovaniemi towards Pyhä-Luosto National Park in Central Lapland. On our way to Pyhä we will pass through Luosto — a tiny yet very cosy tourist resort. In winter it is a popular place for skiing and chasing the Northern Lights. In summer, however, it is under control of a reindeer gang. They have chosen the lawn of Luosto Lapland Ho-

Only when we are deprived of the joys of civilization, we realize how dependent on them we really are. is almost entirely filled with rocky debris, formed over thousands of years. The rugged beauty of the canyon is simply amazing! A wooden path leads through the canyon, so walking is safe. We will soon see the waterfall of “Pyhänkasteenputous”, which is one of the park’s gems. Its waters drip over the slanted layers of rock into a pond. The waterfall is not huge, but it is picturesque. It is a good resting place before a steep climb to the top of a nearby fell. Wooden ladders make climbing easier, but getting to the top with a full backpack will still be a challenge.

A THOUSAND-STAR HOTEL

We find a wilderness cabin, but still, we have other plans. We choose to spend the night in “a thousand-star hotel”! We set our tents on the side of Noitatunturi fell. We enjoy a simple dinner, made on the gas stove.

There is not a soul in sight, only the silent fells. After admiring the epic sunset, it is time to say “Good night!” Sleep comes easily with all the fresh air around — it is said to be Europe’s cleanest.

tel as their hangout, and they are not at all afraid of humans. After some 20 minutes we finally reach the Pyhä resort. We leave our car at the Pyhä Ski-Inn Hotel and embark on a three-day journey into the wilderness.

FINLAND’S NATIONAL TREASURE

The Finns cherish their nature and regard it as their most valuable treasure. This attitude is visible everywhere: the forests are well preserved, and there are a total of 39 national parks in Finland. The largest (and the most beautiful) ones are situated in Lapland. They are the Pyhä-Luosto, Urho Kekkonen, Lemmenjoki and Pallas-Ylläs National Parks. Everyone is free to hike in the parks, but there are some simple rules to follow: take all the garbage away with you, try following the established paths, and make fire only at designated places. You will need a fishing license for fishing with something heavier than a hook and line.

THE CANYON AND THE WATERFALL

Pyhä-Luosto National Park opens just outside the resort’s centre. Soon we will reach the Isokuru canyon, which lies between the two highest fells of Pyhä. The canyon

CABINS AND LEAN-TOS

There are many organized places to rest in Finnish national parks. These include lean-tos with fireplaces and wilderness cabins. Some of them are designed only for daytime stay, but there are some where you can spend a night. In some cases you can reserve a cabin for a moderate fee of a few dozen euros and have the whole cabin at your disposal. Other cabins are shared with other hikers. You can get info about cabins from a local visitor centre or online.

The visitor centre “Naava” is situated at

FINLAND’S NATIONAL PARKS nationalparks.fi MAPS OF NATIONAL PARKS excursionmap.fi MAP OF LEAN-TO’S IN ROVANIEMI etiainen.fi FISHING & WILDERNESS PERMITS eraluvat.fi/en RENTING WILDERNESS CABINS wildnordic.fi

the centre of Pyhä. Lean-tos usually have firewood stored nearby, and cabins are often equipped with gas stoves. You can only make open fire in designated fireplaces, but you can use your portable gas burner freely, as long as its flame doesn’t have contact with the ground.

THE MAGIC OF NATURE

The next two days are filled with simple chores: walk, eat, sleep, repeat. Still, there is purpose in this monotonous schedule. Only when we are deprived of the joys of civilization, such as comfortable beds, TVs, warm showers, we will realize how vulnerable and dependent on them we really are. However, we gain something special in return, something that we cannot grasp when we are surrounded by the comfort of our homes. It is a feeling of “here and now”, a realization of having only one life to live.

On our final day we end up on top of Noitatunturi fell again. It is the highest point of the region, and the views up here are nothing short of breathtaking. We finally see other hikers, but people are still a rare sight.

Our legs are already accustomed to walking and our backpacks are half-empty, so the last 12 km of our journey will be a breeze.

We walk through a pristine forest where we see some wonderful grey-coloured dead trees. They are dried up pines, called “kelo” in Finnish, which remain standing if left untouched. Before heading home, we will stop for a drink at the Ski-Inn Hotel in the centre of Pyhä resort. A tall glass of orange juice with ice cubes (!) really feels like a luxury.

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

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DISCOVER YOUR AMETHYST! Lampivaara Amethyst Mine is one of Lapland’s most fascinating destinations. Located close to Luosto Ski Resort, it offers breath-taking views, and an opportunity to find your own lucky amethyst stone.

L

uosto Resort welcomes us with beautiful summer weather, when we start our journey towards the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine. As the mine is located within the Pyhä-Luosto National Park, private motoring is not allowed here, and we have to go there by foot. 45 minutes later we reach a little cafe at the bottom of Lampivaara Fell, from where guided tours to the mine start every hour.

The amethyst mine is located on top of the hill, so we start our climb along the wooden path. The views one can enjoy from here are just amazing! In clear weather one can see the Pyhä Fell some 30 km away, as well as kilometres of beautiful rugged wilderness.

Once we reach the top, we are taken to a wooden cabin where our guide tells us about the origin of the amethyst stone and about the geology of the region. Amethyst is a form of quartz, and apparently it takes millions of years for it to be formed. When amethyst was discovered in Lampivaara, an important decision was made: not to extract amethyst with heavy machinery, but to make the mine a tourist attraction. Consequently, amethyst is dug here only by hand, with simple picks. According to our guide, it would only take 5–10 years to dig everything up with machines, with a result of a giant hole on the ground. With the present system, it will take hundreds of years to mine it all, and the natural beauty of the place will be preserved.

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ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

Next we head to the open mining area, where we take our picks and start digging. According to our guide, amethyst is naturally found here in abundance, so there is no need to cheat and plant stones just for the sake of tourists. It is easy to believe, as the variety of amethyst one can find here is rich, and many simpler quartz stones are also easily found.

For the price of the entrance ticket, each visitor can take one amethyst stone, large enough to fit into one’s palm, for free. More stones can be purchased on the spot. The price can be negotiated upon with the guides, and they are not greedy. One can also buy readily polished amethyst stones of various sizes as well as amazing pieces of amethyst jewellery in the mine gift shop.

Above: Digging up amethyst stones with picks at Amethyst mine.

Below left: Amethyst stonest that can be found at Lampivaara fell.

Below: Walking the wooden path back from the mine and enjoying the breathaking views.

AMETHYST MINE IS OPEN: 1.6–31.8.2016: every day 11.00–17:00 1–30.9.2016 every day 11.00–16:00 1–31.10.2016: Tue–Sat 11.00–15:00 Closing time means the time when the last excursion of the day starts.

HIKING TO LAMPIVAARA 16 €/adult, 9 €/child (3–12 years).

Reservations not required.

BIKING TO LAMPIVAARA: 26 €/person. Includes electrically assisted bicycle, helmet, entrance fee.

Bookings: Little Mine Shop, shop@amethystmine.fi.

Once we get down from the mine, we enjoy a tasty lunch at the mine cafe. For less than €10, the lunch includes soup of the day, bread, and beverage. The day’s walking around in fresh air has given us a healthy appetite! There is also a barbeque with firewood nearby, where you can cook your own picnic lunch.

The walk downhill from Lampivaara is easy, and soon we are back at Luosto centre. Here you can find Little Mine Shop where amethyst stones and jewellery are also on offer. You can also book an electrically assisted bike here, if you choose to bike your way up to Lampivaara, where your lucky amethyst is waiting for you!

www.amethystmine.fi

Above: View from the top of Levi fell at 1AM. Far left: Reindeer are frequent guests in Levi centre in summer.

Left: Levi Adventure Park offers a lot of fun challenges.

SUMMER FUN IN LEVI

Below left: Playing golf around the clock.

Levi is a popular winter destination, and it was voted Finland’s Best Ski Centre in 2016. In summer, Levi offers a wide range of activities and adventures you can enjoy around the clock.

I

t is 1:00 AM, but the sun still casts its rays on the Levi Fell in Kittilä, Lapland.

I am standing on top of the fell, looking towards the distant North. The oddly shaped rocks are silent, and the wind is gently blowing. The time of the Midnight Sun is always magical here!

Levi has always been one of my favourite places to visit, not only in winter but in summer, too. There is a feeling of peace and tranquillity, as the place is not overcrowded.

Still, there is a fair number of services available at low-season prices, and the place offers plenty of different activities. The best of them take you to the heart of nature.

The Levi area is a wonderful place for hiking. There are plenty of trails to explore on foot or by bike. The Ice Age Trail, which circles the Levi Fell along the tree line, is

perfect for a day trip. There are several places along the trail to build a campfire and have a picnic, but beware of the mosquitos that can be quite hungry in the forest!

The Levi Activity Park, situated at the Gondola area, offers a lot of fun for the whole family. At the Adventure Park you can test your agility and endurance skills by crossing various tracks and obstacles

hung up in mid-air between the trees. There is also a summer sled park, minigolf course, children’s playground, tennis golf park and disc golf park. You can also take a ride on the Gondola ski lift and reach the Levi summit, where you can access a peak trail, or simply enjoy the breath-taking sceneries surrounding the fell.

If you feel like having a cup of coffee or a taste of the local cuisine, head to the Break Sokos Hotel Levi, whose restaurant and bar are open every day in summer. The hotel is also one of my favourite accommodation options due to its location at the Levi centre.

Levi is also known for its impeccable 18hole golf course, where one can enjoy the game around the clock, and for its bowling club, spa, well-being programmes, and riverside activities. You will definitely not be bored at Levi!

LEVI INFO: www.levi.fi, www.sokoshotels.fi

LAPPISH RESTAURANT À LA CARTE open daily 2 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Tähtitie 5, 99130 Levi

experiences

AHEAD

Reservations +358 (0) 16 3215 500

+358 16 321 5555

Ravintola-Kiisa

Coffee House & Bar Levi OPEN DAILY 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Tähtitie 5, 99130 Levi

+358 16 321 5520

CoffeeHouseLevi

coffeehouselevii

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

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PRODUCTS FROM THE

ARCTIC

NATURE

A basket of bilberries that my family gathered last summer :)

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ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

Finland’s forests produce up to a billion kilos of berries every year.

About 1/10th of these are gathered and used in households and in the food & cosmetics industry. Arctic nature is also rich in herbs whose health benefits were well known to our forefathers. The accuracy of their wisdom has now been confirmed by research and used in the production of healthy natural products.

Main photos: All About Lapland | Berries & plants: Istock.

L

apland is said to be Europe’s last wilderness. Air in Lapland has been found Europe’s cleanest. Wild berries from Lappish forests are considered “superfood,” a term that is used to describe natural products that are extremely beneficial to one’s health. They can give your body a well-needed natural boost, speed up your metabolism, and even prevent illnesses. Bilberries, for example, are believed to improve eyesight, and cloudberry jam is consumed when the flu strikes, as it is packed with vitamin C. Summer is short in Lapland, but it is made up for with nights as light as day. From May to August there is 24 hours of daylight every day! This means that plants grow even at night and develop high amounts of vitamins, flavonoids and antioxidants. Wild herbs such as spruce sprouts are collected in early summer and used as herbal tea, spices, as well as in the production of sweets and cosmetics.

The berry-picking season starts in July, when the bilberries ripen. Bilberry (often confused with ‘blueberry’) is a classic example of “superfood.” This wild berry is bursting with fibre and vitamins.

The season continues with cloudberry — the queen of the summer harvest. Not only does it taste delicious, but it is also rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It is best eaten as is, but it is also often used in the production of jams, candies and even berry liqueur. Late summer is the season for lingonberry and cranberry. Their taste is quite sharp if eaten raw, but they are super healthy! For centuries, the locals have enjoyed these gifts of Mother Nature. Today, products made out of Arctic wild berries and herbs are becoming available for tourists and enthusiasts of healthy living around the world.

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

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Ice cream with a soul ANNA-RIIKKA LAVIA is a member of the new wave of entrepreneurs who are not afraid of challenges. Having a background in regional development, she started her second career in 2015 — the Arctic Ice Cream Factory.

Her product is ice cream which she makes by hand in Rovaniemi, Lapland. Produced in a variety of flavours including cloudberry, lingonberry and liquorice, the ice cream has become a favourite for many locals with a sweet tooth, myself included.

To see the factory, I enter a small ‘Choco Deli’ café in Rovaniemi centre. Anna-Riikka shares the basement with coffee shop owners. This is where all the magic happens! Today Anna-Riikka is helped by a trainee from Lapland Vocational College, from where she herself has recently graduated.

— When I was a student, I had an opportunity to test the production of ice cream and to develop my own cream formula, she explains.

— I chose ice cream, because no one else was making it locally.

Ice cream always brings back childhood memories, Anna-Riikka adds.

Although her venture has been hugely successful, production volumes are still small. Today Anna-Riikka is making a batch of cloudberry ice cream, which, I have to admit, is my favourite! The cream mixture was prepared a day before, and now it goes into the ice cream machine. Out comes pure vanilla ice cream, into which she adds cloudberry jam by hand.

— The berries for my ice creams mostly come from Northern Finland. They are of very high quality, so we make sure nothing goes to waste, Anna-Riikka explains while squeezing the bag tightly to get all the precious drops out.

— This is my first year of business. Now I already know what ingredients I need to buy and when, Anna-Riikka reveals.

This summer Anna-Riikka plans to purchase a batch of spruce sprouts to be used for a new flavour of her ice cream. According to Anna-Riikka, the flavours the tourists like are different from the favourites of the locals. Travelers prefer cloudberry and lingon-

Spruce sprout

36

Bilberry

ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016

ARCTIC ICE CREAM AVAILABLE: Rovaniemi: Choco Deli, Aitta Deli&Dine, K-Supermarket Rinteenkulma, K-Citymarket, Restaurant Sirmakko, Restaurant Comico.

Levi: LeviMarket, Restaurant Kiisa (Sokos Hotel Break).

Saariselkä: Restaurant Petronella. Luosto: Restaurant Vaisko. www.arcticicecream.fi berry, while Laplanders enjoy fudge and liquorice, a flavour our foreign guests often fail to appreciate.

Anna-Riikka’s ice creams are available as desserts in selected Lappish restaurants, and packed ice cream is sold in several cafés and supermarkets. While there could be demand for her ice cream also outside

of Lapland, Anna-Riikka likes to keep a cool head about expanding.

— First I need to work out the logistics and arrange storage facilities, she explains.

This means that, for the time being, these lovely ice creams are only available in Lapland. If you happen to visit our region, I suggest you give them a try!

Natural Cosmetics ANTTI KUIVALAINEN runs one of the biggest laboratories in Finland, Ahma Environment Ltd. The company employs more than a hundred chemists, biologists and laborants who do over a million water, air, soil and food tests annually. Over the years, the company has collected a vast knowledge base of active substances that are found in Lappish plants.

— Lapland is a unique place on Earth, Antti reveals. — Plants benefit from the midnight sun and continue to grow all through the night.

According to Antti, these conditions are unique to Finnish Lapland. Unlike in Norway, there are no mountains, which gives plants plenty of space. It is also warmer here than in Siberia, where the amount of light is similar, but the climate is cooler.

— Plants in Lapland collect more antioxidants and antibacterial substances than plants anywhere else on Earth, Antti explains. — Without them the plants simply could not grow here!

Raspberry

As there are many foods with natural substances in Lapland, Antti and his team were thinking about new ways to make use of them. This is how ‘Forest of Lapland’ was born, their new company that produces cosmetics and nutritional supplements.

In 2015, Forest of Lapland launched its first product line, ‘Davvi Cosmetics’ (‘Davvi’ is a Sami word for ‘North’). For ladies they offer Facial Cream and Smoothing Eye Serum that contain raspberry and lingonberry

Cloudberry

Blackberry

Lapland is a unique place on Earth. Plants here benefit from the Midnight Sun and continue to grow all through the night.

extracts as well as buckthorn and bilberry seed oils. Men’s products include Aftershave Eau de Toilette and Calming Balm. They are based on spruce sprout extract and have a smooth enough flavour to be used also by ladies.

— Natural substances that are found in Lapland are very strong, and they are a great substitute for synthetically produced chemicals, Mr. Kuivalainen says.

Forest of Lapland is using oat extract made of ecologically grown Lappish oats that replaces collagen, generated from animals. Although their products also contain plants grown elsewhere

than Lapland, the bulk of their effective substances is obtained locally.

— Lapland is the world’s largest eco-certified organic picking area, Antti declares. — We have a network of enterprises who collect berries and plants, so we know exactly where our raw materials come from.

The production process of natural extracts does not involve or require chemicals. Their product line is still relatively small, but as the initial launch was utterly successful, the creation of new products is already underway in 2016.

DAVVI COSMETICS AVAILABLE: Rovaniemi: Science Centre Pilke, Santa’s Hotels, Santa’s Gifts and Deli. Levi: Hotel Panorama, Hullu Poro Hotel, Levi Pharmacy, Kittilä Airport. Pyhä: Visitor Centre Naava, Lettovilla Shop. Saariselkä: Kuukkeli Shop, Lapland Safaris.Ylläs: Jounin Kauppa, Visitor Centre Kellokas.

Luosto: Hotel Aurora. Inari: Siida Shop. www.davvibiocosmetics.com

Energy boost from Lapland I AM SITTING in front of Tuija Kauppinen, Sales and Marketing Manager of Arctic Warriors Ltd. The company was established in 2014 out of a desire to bring the healing power of Lappish herbs to the people.

— Our product manager Katja Misikangas comes from a family of healers, who possess traditional knowledge about Lappish plants, Tuija explains.

— When Katja told us about her idea of making packaged herb products, my husband Ilkka Kauppinen and I immediately jumped on board, she says.

Tuija and Katja had realized that there was a huge demand for natural products, but were wondering why most products were imported. After all, in Lapland there are many healthy herbs, but they have just not been utilized enough.

They have met this existing demand with their own product — Arctic Warrior gel and honey shots. The names of the products tell about their effect and purpose. Endurance Gel Shot has roseroot in it (often called the Northern ‘ginseng’), which balances the body and gives an energy boost. Defence Gel Shot contains Angelica archangelica, which the Sami people regarded as a holy herb and

Lingonberry

used for recovering their strength after the long winters. Defence Gel Shot is a natural way to help fight the flu and other illnesses. Energy Honey Shot contains roseroot, enclosed in Finnish honey. All shots also contain nettle.

— The effects of angelica and roseroot were asserted by research conducted by Finnish Natural Resources Institute, says Tuija. — The midnight sun gives a kind of “positive stress” to these plants, she explains.

— Cultivated elsewhere, the plants are not nearly as effective as our herbs, grown naturally in Lapland.

The gel shots are portable and very easy to consume. They are the favourite choice for many athletes and hikers for their energy effect and pleasant taste.

— Some parents give their children our Energy Shots instead of regular sweets, because they are a much healthier option, Tuija laughs.

Later I try one of the Endurance Shots (photo). The taste is very pleasant and flowery. A few minutes later I start having goose bumps and experience a lightly uplifting feeling. These shots must really work!

Sea buckthorn

Cranberry

The Arctic Warriors: Ilkka Kauppinen (left), Katja Misikangas and Tuija Kauppinen.

ARCTIC WARRIORS AVAILABLE: Rovaniemi: Mandragora Shop, K-Supermarket Rinteenkulma, Restaurant Nili, Science Centre Pilke, Punnitse&Säästä Shop.

Oulu: Kofeiinikomppania. Tornio: Hotel Olof.

Levi: LeviMarket. Kittilä: Ainut Shop. Pyhä: Café Loimu. Ruka: Café Kamu. Saariselkä: Design Center, Kuukkeli Shop. Salla: Reindeer park. Ylläs: 7 Fells Hostel, Jounin Kauppa, Visitor Centre Kellokas. Inari: Siida Shop. Kilpisjärvi: Kilpishalli.

Also available at Lapland Safaris offices. www.arcticwarriors.fi

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ALL ABOUT LAPLAND | SUMMER 2016