Hedenäset: Market History and Outdoor Activities

Hedenäset combines local market and church history with opportunities for outdoor activities. Kyrkudden, the history of Hietaniemi and seasonal offerings by the Torne provide different points of interest for a stay. When planning, consider access to Kyrkudden and the conditions for paths and events throughout the year.

Kyrkudden and Hietaniemi

Kyrkudden in Hedenäset was a gathering place for markets as early as the Middle Ages and continues to serve as a meeting place for the annual summer market. Several information boards on Kyrkudden provide details about the history of the place and its remains; there is also a rest area with a view of the river. Details of the summer market may vary from year to year. If you are planning your visit around it, check the dates for the relevant year. Market week continues in the second week of July on Thursday in Hietaniemi/Hedenäset with a small, well-attended market; the exact dates may vary from year to year.

From Route 99, Kyrkudden is accessible via Hedenäset Church. A gravel road about 400 to 500 metres long leads to the church car park. A historic site by the river in Hietaniemi was considered a natural meeting place that was easy to recognise and easy to reach by boat.

Church history in Hietaniemi

The first Hietaniemi Church was built in 1617 on a headland in the Torne River to serve parishioners on both sides of the river. In 1717, the bell of Hietaniemi Church was stolen by Russian looters. The wooden church in Hietaniemi was built in 1747. 170 years after it was stolen, the bell was found in a palace chapel outside Saint Petersburg and returned to Hietaniemi Church as a gift from Russia. Hietaniemi Church and its bell tower burned down on the night of 26 September 2023.

Beaches and paths throughout the year

In summer, the Torne River offers Hedenäset several long sandy beaches. A combined cycle and footpath runs through Hedenäset alongside the road and the Torne River. By contrast, during the snow-free season, the old railway embankment provides a route for walking, cycling and running. This distinguishes a route through the village from a route that is explicitly seasonal.

Local amenities

The Hietaniemi kyrkstuga on Kyrkudden can be rented for various gatherings. Hedenäset swimming pool is available for private bookings from September to May; check availability for your preferred dates. At Stencaféet, you can take a coffee break and buy local stone jewellery. Check whether the café is open before travelling. A shop run by Hábmen AB/Erica Huuva Design is located at Skolbacken 21, 95795 Hedenäset, Sweden. Hedenäset also has an outdoor gym.

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