Aavasaksa - where Finland meets Sweden: Nature and History

Lapland , Finland

Aavasaksa - where Finland meets Sweden: Nature and History

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Due to Aavasaksa's distinctive elevation above other nearby hills, it was first used by Pierre Louis Maupertuis in the French Geodesic Mission (1736–1737), and later became part of the Struve Geodetic Arc. As a result of this, UNESCO named Aavasaksa a World Heritage Site, along with the 33 other sites used in the Struve Geodetic Arc.

Aavasaksa is often considered the southernmost point in Finland where the midnight sun is literally visible. The hill is surrounded by rivers running next to it: Torne River to the west and the smaller Tengeliö river to the east and north.

Övertorneå or Ylitornio is a locality and the seat of Övertorneå Municipality in Norrbotten County, Sweden with 1,917 inhabitants in 2010. Övertorneå means Upper Torneå, based on a division of the Torneå parish in two parts in the 16th century. We will see old church, the building of old railway station and very nice landscape.

Available options

Aavasaksa - where Finland meets Sweden: Nature and History

Pickup included

What's included

Transfer, guiding service, BBQ on the fire.

Detailed itinerary

Aavasaksa is a stunning hiking destination located near the town of Aavasaksa, approximately 110 kilometers from Rovaniemi. This area is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich flora, and historical significance.

Övertorneå is a picturesque village located in northern Sweden, near the border with Finland. Nestled along the banks of the Torne River, the village is known for its stunning natural landscapes, traditional Swedish architecture, and rich cultural heritage. The village is home to the Övertorneå Church, an impressive structure built in the 17th century.

Available languages

Guide guide

RU EN

Important information

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Lapland

Lapland is the northernmost and largest region of Finland, known for its pristine wilderness, the Arctic Circle, and unique cultural heritage of the Sami people. It's a destination for those seeking northern lights, reindeer herding, and outdoor adventures in a rugged, beautiful landscape.

Top Attractions

Santa Claus Village

A year-round Christmas-themed attraction where you can meet Santa Claus and cross the Arctic Circle.

Cultural 2-4 hours Free entry, activities vary

Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis)

One of the most spectacular natural phenomena, best viewed in winter under clear skies.

Nature Overnight or evening trips Free to view, tours vary

Levi Ski Resort

A popular ski resort offering skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Adventure Full day or multi-day trips Moderate to expensive

Must-Try Local Dishes

Reindeer Stew

A traditional dish made with reindeer meat, potatoes, and vegetables, slow-cooked to perfection.

Dinner Contains meat, can be adapted for dietary restrictions.

Salmon Soup (Lohikeitto)

A creamy soup made with fresh salmon, potatoes, and dill, often served with rye bread.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian by omitting salmon.

Cloudberry Jam (Lakka)

A sweet jam made from cloudberries, a rare and delicious Arctic berry.

Dessert Vegetarian, vegan if made without gelatin.

Popular Activities

Skiing Snowmobiling Hiking Reindeer safaris Northern lights viewing Spa visits Cozy café hopping Visiting Sami villages

Best Time to Visit

December to March (Winter), June to August (Summer)

Winter is ideal for northern lights, snow activities, and Christmas markets. Summer offers midnight sun, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Winter: -20°C to -30°C, Summer: 10°C to 20°C Winter: -4°F to -22°F, Summer: 50°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Finnish, Swedish, Sami
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (GMT+3 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Lapland is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of the harsh winter conditions and remote areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of icy roads and weather conditions
• Carry a charged phone and emergency supplies
• Dress appropriately for the weather

Getting there

By air

Rovaniemi Airport • 10 km from city center
Kittilä Airport • 94 km from Levi

By train

Rovaniemi Railway Station

By bus

Rovaniemi Bus Station, Kittilä Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary form of public transport in towns. Schedules can be limited in rural areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Rovaniemi City Center Kittilä

Day trips

Pyhä-Luosto National Park

120 km from Rovaniemi • Full day

A stunning national park with hiking trails, waterfalls, and unique geological formations.

Saariselkä

250 km from Rovaniemi • Full day or overnight

A popular destination for winter sports, including skiing, snowmobiling, and reindeer safaris.

Festivals

Christmas Markets • December Midnight Sun Film Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit in shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and unique experiences
Book tours and accommodations well in advance, especially in winter
Dress in layers and be prepared for rapidly changing weather
Try local delicacies like reindeer meat and cloudberries
Respect Sami culture and ask for permission before taking photos of people or sacred sites