Indulge in Nuorgam – the village of happy people.
In the northernmost village of Finland—and the northernmost point of the European Union—lives a small community of people who make their living from nature, tourism, and cross-border trade.
If you’re in the mood for hiking, the surroundings of Nuorgam offer incredible opportunities for outdoor adventures. You can explore the area around Lake Pulmankijärvi, which was formed from an ancient Arctic Ocean fjord, either independently or on guided tours offered by local travel companies year-round. The region is perfect for birdwatching and observing plant life. Local tour operators also organize excursions from Nuorgam to the Varangerfjord, even by snowmobile.
The River Teno (Tana) has long served as a travel route, used for administration and trade as far back as the 16th century. To bypass the Alaköngäs rapids, a trail was created along the riverbank for larger freight loads. Today, this historic detour is a museum road offering a stunning view of the River Teno.
Just one kilometer from the village, a trail called the Skaidijärvi Path begins off the Pulmankijärvi Road. It leads to Isokivenvaara, Nuorgam’s most breathtaking viewpoint. At the summit, you’ll find the “Sitting Stone,” a resting place where hikers have paused after climbing from the village to the fell. Along the roadside, there’s also an environmental artwork made of stones—a riverboat sculpture called The One Going to Nuorgam.
In winter, you can ski across the fell tops, breathe the pure air of Sámi land, and enjoy the profound silence of nature, with views stretching for hundreds of kilometers.
We’re slowing down now. The autumn colors (ruska) are nearly gone; late autumn has arrived. Nature is preparing for rest, days are getting shorter, frost is setting in, and the northern lights are dazzling! On the fells, a trace of ground foliage color remains, drawing hikers into the silent wilderness of October.
Norway is right next door—take day trips to various destinations and experience the spectacular views of the Arctic Ocean. At your lodging, you can enjoy a drink while relaxing in an outdoor hot tub by the River Teno. Time moves toward the polar night and even more magnificent northern lights. When the snow arrives, you can trek into the fells with snowshoes or take a sleigh ride pulled by a snowmobile.
Take your time—come and slow down in Nuorgam!
