Tankavaara, Finland Guide
Tankavaara is a unique and captivating village nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland, renowned as a historical gold-mining area. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's gold rush past and provides a range of activities centered around gold panning, nature exploration, and experiencing the authentic Lappish culture. The village is surrounded by stunning Arctic wilderness, making it a perfect destination for those seeking adventure and tranquility. Beyond its gold-related attractions, Tankavaara serves as a gateway to the Urho Kekkonen National Park, one of Finland's largest protected areas. Visitors can enjoy hiking, trekking, and cross-country skiing amidst breathtaking landscapes. The village also offers opportunities to learn about Sami culture, the indigenous people of Lapland, and their traditional way of life. Tankavaara is a truly special place where history, nature, and culture converge.
Food & Cuisine
Tankavaara's culinary scene is closely tied to the Lappish tradition, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients. Reindeer meat is a staple, often served as sautéed reindeer (poronkäristys) with mashed potatoes and lingonberries. Other local specialties include salmon, arctic char, and cloudberries. The Tankavaara Gold Village restaurant offers traditional Lappish dishes in a rustic setting. For a more casual experience, the village's cafe serves snacks, pastries, and coffee. While Tankavaara doesn't have large markets, you can find local produce and delicacies in nearby towns like Sodankylä.
Nightlife
Tankavaara's nightlife is quite limited, reflecting its small size and focus on outdoor activities. The Tankavaara Gold Village restaurant and bar offer a cozy atmosphere for enjoying drinks and socializing in the evening. However, don't expect a vibrant club scene. The emphasis is on relaxation and enjoying the tranquility of the Arctic environment. For more extensive nightlife options, visitors would need to travel to larger towns like Ivalo or Rovaniemi.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tankavaara depends on your interests. For gold panning and hiking, the summer months (June-August) offer pleasant temperatures and long daylight hours. For winter activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and viewing the Northern Lights, the winter months (December-March) are ideal. Keep in mind that winter temperatures can be extremely cold.
Transportation
Tankavaara is a relatively small village, and public transportation options are limited. Buses connect Tankavaara to larger towns like Sodankylä and Ivalo, but schedules can be infrequent, especially outside of peak tourist season. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the surrounding area and accessing the Urho Kekkonen National Park. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive. Within the village itself, walking is the most convenient way to get around.
Airport
The closest airport to Tankavaara is Ivalo Airport (IVL), located approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) north of the village. From Ivalo Airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or arrange for a pre-booked shuttle to Tankavaara. Bus services are also available, but they may require a transfer in Ivalo.
Attractions
Gold Prospector Museum
The Gold Prospector Museum showcases the history of gold mining in the region, with exhibits on tools, techniques, and the lives of the prospectors. Visitors can learn about the gold rush era and try their hand at panning for gold in the nearby river.
Tankavaara Gold Village
Tankavaara Gold Village offers visitors a chance to experience the gold rush atmosphere with gold panning activities, guided tours, and opportunities to learn about the local culture and history. The village also has accommodation options for those looking to stay overnight.
Tankavaara Gold Fields
The Tankavaara Gold Fields are a popular spot for gold prospecting enthusiasts, with opportunities to try your luck at finding gold in the river or by using metal detectors. The area offers beautiful natural scenery and a chance to experience the thrill of searching for treasure.
Tankavaara Gold Shop
The Tankavaara Gold Shop is a must-visit for those interested in gold mining, offering a wide range of gold-related products such as jewelry, nuggets, and souvenirs. Visitors can also learn about the different types of gold found in the region and purchase their own gold panning equipment.
Day Trips
Ivalo is a small town located on the Ivalojoki River, known as a gateway to the wilderness of northern Lapland. It's a good base for exploring the surrounding area, including Lake Inari and the Lemmenjoki National Park. The town itself offers basic services and a glimpse into local life.
Approx. 1 hour 45 minutes by car Saariselkä is a popular fell resort in Finnish Lapland, offering stunning Arctic scenery and a wide range of outdoor activities. In winter, enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and husky sledding. In summer, hike or bike through the fells, explore the Urho Kekkonen National Park, and experience the midnight sun. It's a great place to immerse yourself in the Lappish wilderness.
Approx. 30 minutes by car Inari is the cultural center of the Finnish Sami people. It's located on the shores of the vast Lake Inari, a beautiful and important part of Sami heritage. Visit the Siida Museum to learn about Sami history, culture, and traditions. The area offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and experiencing the unique landscape.
Approx. 2 hours by car Kittilä is a municipality in Lapland, known for its airport and the Levi ski resort. While Levi itself might be a bit further than a day trip, Kittilä offers a glimpse into local life and access to the surrounding wilderness. You can explore the town, visit local shops, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes by car Sodankylä is a larger town south of Tankavaara, offering a wider range of services and attractions. It's known for its Midnight Sun Film Festival, held annually in June. You can visit the Old Church, explore the town center, and enjoy the surrounding nature.
Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes by car Ivalo
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Saariselkä
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Inari
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Kittilä
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Sodankylä
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