Top 11 Lakes around Kolari

During summer, the lakes offer excellent opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and paddleboarding, especially on Äkäslompolo Lake. The surrounding areas provide well-marked hiking trails and mountain biking routes. You can also find routes for road cycling and touring bicycles, such as those listed in the Road Cycling Routes around Kolari guide.

Yes, Kolari is known for its excellent fishing. Pasmajärvi is historically and currently a significant fishing destination. Kesänkijärvi is regularly stocked with rainbow trout and also contains whitefish, making it a popular spot for both summer and winter fishing.

Many lakes in Kolari are suitable for families. Äkäslompolo Lake has small sandy areas perfect for warmer months. Pasmajärvi features the Tirroniemi swimming beach, considered Kolari's finest sandy beach with shallow shores. Kesänkijärvi offers an easy hiking route, the 'Kesänkijärven kierros', which is great for families and includes spots for campfires.

In winter, the frozen lakes transform into playgrounds for various activities. Äkäslompolo Lake is popular for ice fishing and cross-country skiing. Other winter activities in the region include husky safaris, snowmobile tours, and snowshoeing, with opportunities to experience the Northern Lights.

For scenic views, the area around Äkäslompolo Lake is surrounded by the 'Seven Fells,' offering panoramic views. Varkaankuru Waterfall is a picturesque spot with a small lake and a popular resting area. Äkässaivo is a natural monument and an ancient site of worship, particularly beautiful during the autumn 'Ruska-time'.

Yes, there are numerous hiking trails. The Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park, which borders some lakes like Äkäslompolo Lake, has well-marked trails. Pasmajärvi also offers nature trails and historical sites. For a specific example, the 'Kesänkijärven kierros' is an easy circuit around Kesänkijärvi. You can find more options in the Running Trails around Kolari guide, which includes routes like the 'Kesänkijärvi loop'.

The best time depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June-August) is ideal for water sports, hiking, and experiencing the midnight sun. Winter (December-April) is perfect for snow activities like skiing, ice fishing, and Northern Lights viewing. Autumn (September-October) offers stunning 'Ruska-time' foliage, especially around places like Äkässaivo.

Yes, the village of Pasmajärvi, on the shores of Pasmajärvi, has a long history tied to nature and traditions, hosting annual Pasmajärvi Heritage Days. Near Äkässaivo, you can find Seitapahta, an ancient site of worship, offering a glimpse into the region's past.

The area around Äkäslompolo Lake offers a charming array of unique accommodations, including traditional lakeside log cabins and cozy countryside cottages. Many have private saunas and direct access to trails. You can also find shelters like the Ylläsjärvi Lake Shelter, which provides a nice resting spot by the lake.

Luosujärvi is known for its serene wilderness setting within Lapland, often pictured with the Ylläs fell in the background, offering scenic surroundings. While specific recreational features are less highlighted, its natural beauty implies opportunities for enjoying the tranquil environment, fishing, and hiking in the surrounding areas.

Yes, the Kolari region offers various cycling routes. For example, the Cycling around Kolari guide includes routes like 'Kesänkijärven polkaisu' which passes by Kesänkijärvi, and the 'Äkäslompolo hike' which is also suitable for cycling near Äkäslompolo Lake.