The most beautiful road in Finland
The route 970 takes you from Karigasniemi to Utsjoki and Nuorgam, following the 143 km journey alongside the River Teno. This “Route Teno” has been given the title of the most beautiful route in Finland as it travels alongside the river through breathtakingly beautiful fells and valleys. The best way to enjoy the beauty of the road is by bike – the road is actually part of the Arctic by Cycle -cycling route network.
Sámiland is a land of great distances. Similarly to any traffic-jammed metropolis, the distances in Sámiland are not measured in kilometres, but rather in time. However, it goes without saying that you should never count the hours spent on the road, if you have made your travel plans on the basis of aesthetic values. Tenontie, the loveliest scenic road in Finland, should always be travelled slowly, enjoying the panoramic beauty of the countryside. Slow pace is also recommended due to safety – the weather might change quickly and in addition to cars and bicycles, the road is commonly used by moose and reindeer.
There are also many attractions to be found by Tenontie. The steep and stately valley slopes sometimes seem to rise straight from the river. In other places, the slopes of the fells have pulled farther back from the river, leaving space for plateaus, a handful of houses or even a tiny village. The small Sámi villages of Rovisuvanto, Outakoski, Dálvadas and Nuvvus are located between Karigasniemi and Utsjoki. You will also be able to see three sacred Áilegas fells along the way; they are located in Karigasniemi, Nuvvus and Utsjoki. It is definitely worthwhile making your way to the top of Nuvvos-Áilegas – the view down to the Tenojoki river valley is to die for! You can see the river winding along like a snake, glittering like silver, whilst dense birch forests give the slopes a lush appearance.