Northern Lapland includes part of Sodankylä and the
municipalities of Inari and Utsjoki. Inari is the largest
municipality in Finland in terms of area (17,321 square
kilometers). The population density in northern Lapland is
0.5 inhabitants per square kilometer of land.
The municipality center of Ivalo has always been a
crossroads on a the way north to the Arctic Ocean, east to
Russia and south to other parts of Lapland. It prides itself
on its well-stocked shops, accommodation and restaurant
services, and public infrastructure.
The River Ivalo flows through the village, and
gold-panning is the focus of a series of summer events. A
riverside park is decorated with statues of gold-panners.
The village of Inari is well worth a visit. There
are excellent hiking trails and fishing waters in the
vicinity. Lake Inari is ideal for experienced boaters. There
are also daily cruises on the lake, for example to an ancient
Lapp ceremonial site.
Inari is the administrative center of Finland's Sami
population. Visitors can learn about Sami culture at the Sami
Museum, tour a reindeer farm and admire Sami crafts. Quality
souvenirs and gifts, inspired by nature and local culture,
are on display at shops in the village.
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