Nellim Day Trip by Northern Lights Village Saariselkä
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required during the trip.
Overview
Journey to Nellim with Northern Lights Village Saariselkä for a unique cultural snapshot at Finland’s Russian border. Visit historic sites, take in wild river views, and warm up with a local lunch.
[C3] Day Trip to Nellim (6h)
Explore the Tiny Village of Nellim in the Heart of the Land of Sámi!
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Adventure Photos
![[C3] Day Trip to Nellim (6h) photo 1](https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/Ps3dBWYsSVuehWGATcLL)
About This Adventure
Discover the enchanting village of Nellim, where eastern, western, and northern cultures converge. Experience the serene Holy Trinity church, adorned with log walls and stunning icons, and enjoy breathtaking views at the Paatsjoki River Bridge. This unique journey includes a cozy lunch and thermal clothing for your comfort.
“The atmosphere in the Holy Trinity church is an inimitable combination of the log cabins of Lapland, the ornate luxury of eastern churches, the closeness of nature, and silent sanctity”
Duration
6 Hours
About
Explore the meeting point of the eastern, western, and northern cultures in the tiny village of Nellim, next to the enormity of Russia, in the heart of the land of Sámi.
The bus will take you comfortably to the northernmost border crossing between Finland and Russia. We will spend a moment at the border station and continue to the Paatsjoki River Bridge that crosses over the unfrozen river and provides a view directly into Russia.
We will also explore the Holy Trinity church at Nellim, where the log walls and the beautiful icons transform the shrine into a unique work of art, exhibiting the centuries-old Orthodox history of the Skolt Sámi people.
Inclusions
- Guiding in English
- Soup Lunch inc. Rye Bread, Warm Berry Juice and Cookies Outdoors or Buffet Lunch at Wilderness Hotel Nellim
- Thermal Clothing inc. Overalls, Boots & Mittens
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers
Thermal clothing is provided, but layering ensures comfort during outdoor segments and indoor visits.
Bring a camera with zoom
The river bridge offers views into Russia—telephoto lenses capture this rare perspective well.
Stay hydrated
Carry water or use provided berry juice during lunch to stay refreshed in cold, dry air.
Respect local customs
The Holy Trinity church is a sacred site; maintain quiet and follow guidance during your visit.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Reindeer grazing in open meadows
- Eurasian cranes migrating along the river corridor
History
Nellim’s Holy Trinity church showcases centuries of Orthodox influence among the Skolt Sámi, symbolizing cultural resilience on this frontier.
Conservation
Efforts focus on preserving the delicate subarctic ecosystem and supporting sustainable tourism that honors indigenous traditions.
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Adventure Hotspots in Rovaniemi
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Thermal base layers
Key for staying warm during the chilly outdoor segments.
winter specific
Waterproof boots
Useful for navigating wet or icy terrain comfortably.
fall|spring|winter specific
Camera
Capture the rare scenery and cultural sites along the route.
Small daypack
Carry personal items, snacks, and water conveniently.