Kolari on the Muonionjoki: River Landscapes and Cultural Trails

The village of Kolarin kirkonkylä has stood on the banks of the Muonionjoki, also called Väylä, for centuries. Ylläs is located within the municipality of Kolari. From there, Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park can be reached via trails that begin just outside the fell villages.

Trails between river landscapes and culture

The cultural trail in Kolarin kirkonkylä begins in the churchyard. It traces the roots of life in Peräpohjola and passes through landscapes shaped by the cultivation of flood meadows and work along the riverbanks. Those interested in the connection between everyday life and the landscape will find a cultural way to explore the area here. The Lukkarinvainion luontopolku nature trail, which runs near Kolarin kirkonkylä, has a different focus: its approximately 3.5-kilometre route passes through river and forest landscapes.

Teuran lenkki can also be described by its specific trail features: the route is 2.6 kilometres long, flat and lit. Its name commemorates Olympic champion Pertti Teurajärvi; the Ahamankolon laavu lean-to shelter is located along the trail. Trail conditions can change seasonally, so it is advisable to check the current situation before setting out. For another activity, Kolarin kirkonkylä has nine disc golf tees, each with a course map.

The Väylä River draws visitors to Kolari, particularly for salmon rowing. Seasonal conditions and providers may vary. If you plan to take part, check in advance what options are available during your travel dates. Together with the trails along the river and through the forest landscapes, this offers a choice between getting active on land and enjoying an experience on the water.

Two churches, different impressions

The protected wooden church, Kolarinsaaren kirkko, is a distinctive piece of cultural heritage: it is square and has a freestanding bell tower. In 1976, it was restored under the supervision of the Finnish Heritage Agency. In summer, it serves as a venue for concerts; it is also used for services and church ceremonies, whose dates may vary. When planning a visit, bear in mind that the church has neither lighting nor heating.

The new church of Kolari was built in 1965. It stands in the centre of Kolarin kirkonkylä, on the grounds of the Jokijala vicarage. Its furnishings include an altarpiece by Urpo Vainio entitled “Jeesus vierailee kolarilaisessa kodissa”. Together, the two churches offer different ways to explore the area’s culture: the protected wooden church, which hosts concerts seasonally, and the newer church with its altarpiece.

Planning a trip to Kolari

Kolari railway station is a useful reference point for travel: it is the railway station closest to Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park. A connecting bus runs from there to Ylläs and back. As transport connections can change, check the latest services before travelling. Ylläs is a nature destination in its own right within the municipality of Kolari; access to the national park begins there on trails outside the fell villages.

The churches, cultural trail and river activities anchor your trip in Kolarin kirkonkylä; nearby trails and the connection to Ylläs turn your attention to nature experiences within the municipality. This distinction provides a clear basis for tailoring your search for hotels in Kolari to your travel plans, without conflating different places and activities.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Pelkosenniemi, Inari, Ivalo, Salla, Kaamanen, Keminmaa, Tankavaara, Posio

Return to the main travel overview: Lapland.