Patokoski on the Ounasjoki

Patokoski brings together the river scenery of the Ounasjoki, a long history of settlement and the reindeer husbandry of Poro-Pekan Pirtti. On your trip, you can explore a range of interests: the history of the place, archaeological traces and experiences in nature. In summer, Patokoski offers opportunities for fishing; in winter, for skiing.

A village on the Ounasjoki with a long history

Patokoski is an old settlement on the Ounasjoki and one of the villages along this river in a regionally significant tourism area in the Rovaniemi region. The first written references to permanent settlement date from the 16th century. The place name also reflects its connection to the river: it derives from salmon fishing with a fish trap.

Finds show that hunters and fishers were already present in Patokoski during the Stone Age. Quartz flakes found on a sandy pine-forest site on the north bank of Patokoski point to a Stone Age settlement site. Both the early use of the area and the later, documented permanent settlement are part of the place’s history.

Poro-Pekan Pirtti and reindeer culture

The Poro-Pekan Pirtti reindeer farm has a long history dating back to the 19th century. Its old main building is in Patokoski, near the Ounasjoki. The house and accommodation buildings are on the same farmyard, in an area considered a traditional cultural landscape. Those interested in local history and reindeer husbandry will find a tangible connection to both here.

During a visit to the reindeer farm, visitors learn about the history of the house, reindeer husbandry and reindeer life. The visit includes a short reindeer-sleigh ride through a small patch of forest near the reindeer enclosure. The experience focuses on both the historic house and its story, as well as the animals. Poro-Pekan Pirtti offers activities year-round; however, the old main building is generally open only by appointment.

River scenery and seasonal experiences

Patokoski offers opportunities for fishing in summer and skiing in winter. In winter, an ice road is also built across the Ounasjoki at Patokoski, providing access to the opposite riverbank. These seasonal features give the river a different role during your stay: as a place for summer fishing and as a route across the river in winter.

With its river scenery, Patovaara is associated with outdoor recreation, enjoying nature and local and regional tourism. For travelers who like to combine cultural history with landscapes, nearby archaeological sites are also part of what Patokoski has to offer.

Archaeological sites in the surrounding area

The Patokoski 2 archaeological monument consists of a cairn and a stone wall. It lies southwest of Patokoski, on the south or southeast bank of the Meltausjoki. A path leads there from a parking area south of the bridge over Meltauskoski. These features and the route described provide practical guidance for anyone interested in archaeological evidence.

At Patokoski 1, on the north bank of Patokoski, quartz flakes have been found on a sandy pine-forest site, pointing to a Stone Age settlement site. The Patokoski 2 monument and the Patokoski 1 findspot refer to different archaeological traces in the village and its immediate surroundings.

If you would like to expand your travel plans beyond Patokoski, you can also find Napapiiri, Savukoski, Tankavaara, Sinettä, Äkäslompolo, Kolari, Peurasuvanto and Rautuskylä here.

For the wider travel overview: Lapland.