Siida
Siida (www.siida.fi) is the Sámi Museum and
Northern Lapland Nature Centre. With its exhibitions about Sámi culture and the
natural features of northern Lapland, it is one of the most impressive
exhibition centers in the Nordic countries. In addition to the permanent and
temporary exhibitions, visitors can get information on hiking, and buy maps or
permits for northern Lapland district.
Ukonsaari Island
In the middle of Ukonselkä open water area on Lake Inarijärvi, about 11 km
east-northeast from the village of Inari, there is a strange-looking rocky
island, tall and hunchbacked. It is called Ukonsaari or just Ukko, which means
“an old man” in Finnish. The island is only 300 metres long, 100 metres wide and
30 metres high. Its eye-catching looks have made it a famous natural sight in
Inari. Originally, it is a well-known and worshipped, sacred place for the Sámi
people.
Lake Pielpajärvi Wilderness Church is
located a bit less than 10 km away from the village of Inari. The 5-km-long
trail to the church begins along Sarviniementie road, about 3 km from Siida.
Boaters can walk to the church from Pielpavuono Fjord, this trail is 3 km long.
The church was built 1752-1760, and it was in use until the end of 1800s, until
which time it was the central place of Inari area. A service is held in the
church a few of times a year, and couples can get married in there. There is a
guide in the church during the summer.
Otsamotunturi Fell (418 m) is located 8 km away from the village of Inari.
From the top of the fell, you get a great view over Lake Inarijärvi, Juutuanjoki
River, Lake Muddusjärvi, Muotkatunturi Fells and Joenkielinen Fell. The trail to
Otsamotunturi Fell begins opposite too Siida. From the grounds of the youth
centre Vasatokka begins another, a 10-km-long trail to Otsamotunturi
Fell.
