Is Sirkka Worth Visiting? An In-Depth Guide to This Finnish Town

Sirkka is a small town in Lapland, Finland, known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. But is it worth visiting? In this blog post, we will explore the town’s history, attractions, and culture to help you make an informed decision.

The History of Sirkka

Sirkka has a rich history dating back to the 17th century when it was a trading center for Finnish Lapland. The town was named after Sirkka, the wife of the first settler in the area. The town grew in importance in the 19th century due to the gold rush in Lapland, and it became a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts in the 20th century.

Attractions in Sirkka

Sirkka is perhaps best known for its outdoor activities. The town is located near the Ylläs ski resort, which boasts 63 ski slopes and a variety of winter sports facilities. But even if you’re not a skier, Sirkka has plenty of other outdoor activities to offer. You can go snowshoeing, ice fishing, or even dog sledding. The town also has several hiking trails that are popular in the summer months.If you’re interested in culture, Sirkka has a few attractions worth visiting. The Lapland Gallery is a great place to see works of art from local and national artists. The Northern Lights exhibition, located in the Yllästunturi Visitor Center, is an interactive display that teaches visitors about the science behind the Aurora Borealis.

Food and Drink in Sirkka

In Sirkka, you can experience traditional Finnish cuisine like reindeer stew and fish soup. The town has several restaurants and cafes that serve Finnish and international cuisine. Some of the popular restaurants in Sirkka are Ravintola Poro, which is known for its reindeer dishes, and Ski Bistro, which serves pizza and burgers.

Accommodation in Sirkka

There are several accommodation options in Sirkka, ranging from hotels to apartments. The most popular hotels in the town are the Lapland Hotel Saaga and the Ylläshumina Hotel. If you’re looking for a more authentic experience, you can rent a cabin or apartment. Check out the Ylläs Chalets or Ylläksen Yöpuu for cozy cabins and apartments.

Is Sirkka Worth Visiting?

Based on this guide, we believe that Sirkka is definitely worth visiting. The town has plenty of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and delicious food. Whether you’re a skier, hiker, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Sirkka has something to offer. Plus, the town’s location in Lapland means you’re sure to experience some breathtaking scenery.We hope this guide has helped you in your decision to visit Sirkka. If you do decide to go, make sure to pack warm clothes and plenty of camera batteries. Happy travels!

An Insider’s Guide to Sirkka, Finland

Sirkka is a small town located in the Lapland region of Finland. It is a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to the ski resort of Levi. The town itself, however, is worth visiting for its own unique charm and offerings. In this travel guide, we will explore the local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make the most out of your trip to Sirkka.

Local Attractions

Sirkka may be a small town, but it has plenty of attractions that will keep you entertained. Here are some worth checking out:

– Levi Ski Resort: Whether you are an experienced skier or a beginner, Levi Ski Resort has slopes that cater to all skill levels. The resort offers more than just skiing, as it also has snowmobile and husky safaris, reindeer rides, and a spa.
– Northern Lights: Sirkka is one of the best places to witness the Northern Lights due to its location above the Arctic Circle. Visit between September and April to increase your chances of catching the aurora borealis.
– Lainio Snow Village: A unique experience that should not be missed is staying a night in the Lainio Snow Village, which is built anew each year. The Ice Bar, Ice Restaurant, and Ice Hotel all offer an unforgettable experience.
– Sirkka Church: An iconic landmark in the town is the wooden Sirkka Church. The church is open to visitors and stands as a testament to the town’s history and culture.

Dining Spots

Sirkka has plenty of dining options that cater to a variety of tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best:

– Ravintola Alabama: A cosy restaurant located in Hotel Levi Panorama, Ravintola Alabama offers Finnish and international cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.
– Utsun Kammarit: For a more traditional culinary experience, head to Utsun Kammarit for Lappish delicacies like reindeer meat, smoked fish, and cloudberry jam.
– Kota-Kaluste Ky: A unique experience you should not miss is dining in a traditional Finnish kota (a type of teepee). Kota-Kaluste Ky offers an authentic Lappish dinner served by a campfire.
– Hesburger: For a quick bite on the go, Hesburger is a popular Finnish fast-food chain that offers burgers, fries, and milkshakes.

Cultural Experiences

Sirkka has a rich culture rooted in the traditions of the indigenous Sami people. Here are some cultural experiences you should not miss:

– Sami Museum and Nature Center Siida: Located about an hour’s drive from Sirkka, the Sami Museum and Nature Center Siida provides insight into the history and culture of the Sami people through exhibitions, films, and guided tours.
– Sami Reindeer Farm: Experience a traditional reindeer herding on a Sami Reindeer Farm. Learn about the traditions of the Sami people and get up close to the gentle creatures.
– Lapland Shaman Museum: The Lapland Shaman Museum in Rovaniemi provides insight into the beliefs and practices of the ancient Sami shamans. The museum’s exhibits and guided tours offer an interesting and educational experience.

Local History

Sirkka has a rich history that can be experienced through various local attractions. Here are some highlights:

– Kierikki Stone Age Centre: Located about an hour’s drive from Sirkka, the Kierikki Stone Age Centre offers visitors a look at life in Northern Finland during the Stone Age through interactive exhibits and live demonstrations.
– Lappset Group Oy: The Lappset Group Oy is a local company that produces playground equipment and outdoor fitness equipment. Visitors can learn about the company’s history and how it has become a successful global brand.
– Pöntsö: A historical site worth visiting is Pöntsö, an old reindeer fence that was used by the Sami people for centuries. The fence is made entirely of stone and is over 100 meters long.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Sirkka and its surroundings have plenty of hidden gems that are not well-known to tourists. Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Rivin Matkailu: A local farm that offers authentic Finnish experiences like a traditional sauna experience, berry picking, and traditional handicraft workshops.
– Northern Lights Ranch: A cozy ranch located outside of Levi, the Northern Lights Ranch offers visitors a chance to view the northern lights in a peaceful setting.
– Pyhä-Luosto National Park: Located about an hour’s drive from Sirkka, Pyhä-Luosto National Park has plenty of hiking trails that lead to stunning views of the Finnish wilderness.

In conclusion, Sirkka is definitely worth visiting if you are looking for an authentic Finnish experience. With plenty of attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, there is something for everyone in this charming Lapland town.