Kaunispää Guide
Summit Views and Midnight Sun: Kaunispää Fell Awaits Guide
Kaunispää, meaning "beautiful head" in Finnish, is a prominent fell located near the village of Saariselkä in Finnish Lapland. Rising to a height of 437 meters, Kaunispää offers panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness, including the vast Urho Kekkonen National Park. It's a popular destination for both summer and winter activities, providing stunning vistas and a chance to experience the unique beauty of the Arctic landscape. While not a historical site in the traditional sense, Kaunispää has long been a significant landmark for the local Sami people and later for tourists drawn to the area's natural beauty. The fell's name reflects its reputation as a place of exceptional views, and it has become a symbol of the Saariselkä region. Visitors to Kaunispää can enjoy a variety of activities. In summer, hiking and mountain biking are popular, with trails leading to the summit and offering breathtaking views along the way. The midnight sun, visible during the summer months, provides a unique opportunity to experience the landscape in a different light. In winter, Kaunispää transforms into a popular ski resort, with slopes for downhill skiing and snowboarding. The fell is also an excellent location for viewing the Northern Lights, with its elevated position and minimal light pollution. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly linked to Kaunispää, the restaurants in Saariselkä offer a taste of Lapland's cuisine, featuring local ingredients like reindeer, salmon, and berries.
Transportation
Kaunispää is easily accessible from Saariselkä village. You can reach the base of the fell by car or bus. A road leads to the top of Kaunispää, making it accessible by car even in winter (though winter tires are essential). During the ski season, a ski bus operates between Saariselkä and the Kaunispää ski resort. Alternatively, you can hike to the summit from Saariselkä, following well-marked trails.