Muodoslompolo: Cultural History, Fishing and Nature Destinations

A trip to Muodoslompolo can be planned around three different themes: church history, guided fishing opportunities and destinations in the wider area. Muodoslompolo kyrka offers a specific historical connection; Akamella and the nature reserves are outside the immediate village area. Leisure activities range from professional fly-fishing guidance to forest roads and unmarked trails. When making your plans, consider whether you would like to set aside time for cultural history, guided fishing or nature trails.

Church history and sacred places

The bells at Muodoslompolo kyrka were rung by hand until 1 January 2009. This date clearly marks when the practice ended. Pajala Municipality also has churches and chapels from northern Muodoslompolo to southern Korpilombolo. Each of these churches and chapels has its own history and invites visitors to explore. If you are planning a church visit, check the specific visiting arrangements in advance.

Akamella: a historic site in the surrounding area

Akamella lies just over 10 km northwest of Muodoslompolo. The site is an abandoned cemetery and an archaeological site. The cemetery was consecrated in 1663 and abandoned in 1817. These two dates outline its history, from consecration to abandonment; its designation as an archaeological site adds a perspective beyond its history as a cemetery. Akamella is not in Muodoslompolo itself, but outside the village. This distinguishes the site from Muodoslompolo kyrka both in terms of its location and its particular historical character.

Hiking areas and orientation

Valkeajärvi Nature Reserve, outside the immediate village area, has forest roads and trails for hiking, but no marked hiking trails or visitor facilities. If you plan to visit the area, take these conditions into account: the trails are unmarked and there are no visitor facilities.

Särkitievat Nature Reserve lies about 11 km northwest of Muodoslompolo, in the northern Tornedalen region, right by National Road 99. From the public road, it can be reached via Muodoslompolo and then north along Road 99. At Valkeajärvi, the focus is on trail types and the lack of facilities; Särkitievat can be described in terms of distance, direction and road access.

Guided and seasonal activities

The Muodoslompolo-based company J.L Guiding offers professional fly-fishing guidance and courses. Rajamaa organizes fishing adventures as all-inclusive packages with professional guidance; availability depends on the program.

During the summer season, from mid-June, Rajamaa offers activities including mountain biking and hiking. Check the availability of these seasonal activities before your trip. For the Arctic Canoe Route, the group meets the guides at the Rajamaa camp before heading to dinner.

Discover more destinations: Kangos, Tärendö, Korpilombolo, Pajala

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