In 33 days, we will have finished our time in Rovaniemi but I'm hoping we will have jam packed it with fun activities! A few of the options might have included:
Reindeer sleigh rides
Ounasvaara ski & snowboarding resort
Ranua wildlife park - polar bears & lynxes in their natural habitat!
Ice floating
More northern lights
Hikes and trail runs in the nearby forests
Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, has a population of about 65,000. It has a rich history shaped by Sámi culture, trade, war, and modernisation. Located at the confluence of the Ounasjoki and Kemijoki rivers, it has been a meeting point for traders and reindeer herders for centuries.
The area was originally inhabited by the Sámi people, who relied on fishing, hunting, and reindeer husbandry. By the 19th century, Rovaniemi grew into a small trading post, benefiting from the timber industry. The construction of a railway in the early 20th century further boosted its economy. The trip between Rovaniemi and Helsinki takes about 8 hours these days. We’ve opted to fly!
During World War II, the city was devastated when retreating German forces burned it almost entirely in 1944. After the war, Rovaniemi was rebuilt with a modern layout designed by architect, incorporating the shape of a reindeer’s head.
Today, Rovaniemi is known as the “official” hometown of Santa Claus and a major centre for Arctic tourism, research, and culture. It serves as a gateway to the North.
Comments