Discover Kolari: River, Churches and Cultural Trails

The village centre of Kolari has stood on the banks of the Muonionjoki, also known as Väylä, for centuries. Churches, a cultural trail and paths through river and forest landscapes give a stay in Kolari different dimensions. If you are looking for a hotel in Kolari, you can first consider whether you would most like to discover the village centre, its cultural history or activities in the landscape.

Kolari on the Muonionjoki

The river is a defining geographical feature of the village centre. Väylä draws visitors to Kolari, particularly for salmon rowing. If you plan to take part in this activity, bear in mind that seasonal conditions and providers may vary.

Two churches with distinct character

The old wooden church, Kolarinsaaren kirkko, is a protected site under the Finnish Heritage Agency. It was restored in 1976 under the agency’s supervision. Its square structure and detached bell tower define its architecture. The church has neither lighting nor heating, so bear this in mind when planning your visit. It is used for services and other church ceremonies, whose times may vary. In summer, the old wooden church also serves as a venue for concerts.

The new church of Kolari, built in 1965, is a separate building. It stands in the centre of the village of Kolari, on the grounds of the Jokijala vicarage. Its altarpiece is by artist Urpo Vainio and is titled “Jeesus vierailee kolarilaisessa kodissa”. The village centre therefore has two distinct church buildings: the protected old wooden church and the church built in 1965, with its named altarpiece.

Cultural trail and paths through the landscape

The cultural trail in the village centre of Kolari begins in the churchyard and leads to the roots of the way of life in Peräpohjola. It passes through landscapes shaped by the management of flood meadows and work along the riverbanks. This makes it a way to explore cultural themes and the landscape together.

Another route option is Teuran lenkki, named after Olympic champion Pertti Teurajärvi. The route is 2.6 kilometres long, flat and lit; seasonal conditions may vary. The Ahamankolon lean-to shelter is along the route. Nearby, the approximately 3.5-kilometre Lukkarinvainion nature trail also passes through river and forest landscapes. The distances and landscape features described offer a concrete comparison: Teuran lenkki is shorter, while the nearby nature trail passes through river and forest landscapes.

There are also nine disc golf teeing areas in the village centre of Kolari, with a map at the locations. This means that, alongside the walking routes, there are specific places to play disc golf.

Getting there and the regional setting

Kolari railway station is the closest railway station to Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park. A connecting bus runs from the station to Ylläs and back. As transport connections may change, check current services before travelling.

Ylläs is also part of the regional setting within the municipality of Kolari. The trails to Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park begin just outside the fell villages, providing access to the park. This information adds another perspective on the municipality to the destinations in the village centre. When planning, you can distinguish between interests focused on the churches and trails of the village centre of Kolari and the wider regional connection to Ylläs.

Discover more destinations: Muonio, Sodankylä, Pohjaslahti, Ylläsjärvi, Kemijärvi, Utsjoki, Simo, Ivalo.

View the broader travel guide: Lapland.