Visit Kivijärvi, Finland
Discover this absolute gem in the heart of Finland. Kivijärvi is a destination that perfectly encapsulates the country’s serene beauty, all year round! This small town, surrounded by wilderness and pristine waters of Lake Kivijärvi, offers a peaceful experience to retreat, relax, rejuvenate the soul, for nature lovers, adventure seekers and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Keep reading to know why you should visit Kivijärvi, Finland, on your next European holiday.
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Top Reasons Why You Should Visit Kivijärvi
The Beauty of Lake Kivijärvi
The town’s crown jewel is undoubtedly Lake Kivijärvi. In the warmer months it is a vast expanse of clear, blue waters surrounded by lush forests where you can enjoy the likes of fishing, canoeing, kayaking or simply enjoying a peaceful picnic on its shores. It becomes a sure spot for swimming, catching some rays and soaking in some much needed Vitamin D for Finnish locals. In winter, it becomes an exquisite frozen landscape perfect for ice fishing, snowshoeing and enjoying the magnificent wonders of nature.
Outdoor Adventures in Salamajärvi National Park
Just a short drive from Kivijärvi, Salamajärvi National Park is a must-visit for outdoor and nature lovers. This park is known for its wild forests, bogs and small lakes, making it an excellent spot for hiking, bird watching and experiencing Finland’s unique wilderness. The park’s well-marked trails cater to all levels of hikers, from easy day hikes to more challenging multi-day treks. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some of Finland’s elusive wildlife, such as reindeer, elk, or the rare forest deer.
In winter you can expect to find tee-pees with wood stacks nearby for you to utilise. Be sure to pack a picnic and the matches and enjoy an outdoor picnic surrounded by some of the most glorious of Finland’s wonders.
A Photographer’s Paradise
For photography enthusiasts, Kivijärvi is a dream come true. The landscape is a mix of tranquil lakes, dense forests and wide-open skies that offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset. The region’s natural beauty is complemented by the changing seasons, each bringing its own unique charm – from the vibrant colours of autumn to the snowy beauty of winter.
Outdoor enthusiasts
For people who love the outdoors, Kivijärvi is a haven. There is a wide range of activities that cater to all seasons. In the winter, the snow-covered landscape becomes a playground for sledding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, with trails that wind through the pristine forests and along the frozen lake. As the weather warms, the area transforms into a paradise for hikers, with numerous trails that showcase the region’s natural beauty. Water lovers can enjoy kayaking and canoeing on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Kivijärvi, exploring hidden coves and islands. Fishing is a year-round activity in Kivijärvi.
Kivijärvi By Season
Kivijärvi’s appeal varies with the seasons. In summer, the Midnight Sun is known to cast a golden glow over the landscape, which extends the daylight hours and allows for endless outdoor activities. Autumn brings a burst of colour as the forests turn shades of red, orange and yellow. Winter transforms the area into a snowy wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing, ice skating and even viewing the Northern Lights. Spring sees the thawing of ice and the return of migratory birds, making it a great time for nature walks and bird watching.
Explore the Surrounding Villages
The area around Kivijärvi is dotted with cute little villages, each offering its own unique attractions. It is worth taking a day trip to discover local towns, exploring their artisan shops, historical churches and hidden hiking trails. These villages can provide a greater insight into the local culture and are perfect for those who enjoy exploring off the beaten path.
A place to relax and enjoy nature
Kivijärvi is the perfect destination for people seeking a peaceful retreat to relax and reset. Surrounded by unspoiled nature, the town offers a tranquil atmosphere where the stresses of everyday life seem to melt away. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet moment on a lakeside, taking a leisurely walk through the forests, drinking coffee with a book in hand or unwinding in a traditional Finnish sauna, Kivijärvi provides the perfect backdrop for reflection, rejuvenation where you can truly escape, find peace and recharge yourself.
Stay in Charming Lakeside Cottages
Accommodation in Kivijärvi is as picturesque as the surroundings. Many visitors choose to stay in traditional Finnish cottages, known as “mökki,” which are typically located by the lake. These cottages offer a cosy retreat with modern amenities, often including a private sauna and a lakeside dock. Staying in one of these cottages allows you to fully immerse yourself in the peaceful, natural environment of Kivijärvi.
Our Kivijärvi accommodation choice – Holiday Hannunkivi
We can highly recommend this charming accommodation just out of (but in walking distance) the main township of Kivijärvi. Nestled among the trees and located at the shore of a lake, it is the perfect place for a peaceful and relaxing get away. We loved our stay at Holiday Hannunkivi. It was a home away from home for us, with plenty of room indoors, a fire, kitchen, washing machine, balcony and verandah to enjoy the views from outdoors, comfortable beds, walking trails and provided easy access to the sled hill, walking tracks and the very beautiful Salamajärvi National Park.
Compare prices for Holiday Hannunkivi:
Kivijärvi is a destination that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an active holiday, Kivijärvi has something to offer everyone. It’s a place where you can disconnect from the everyday grind and reconnect with nature, making it a true hidden gem in Finland’s heartland.
Travel diaries from our time in Kivijärvi in 2023.
Erin Parker is a Finnish Lapland specialist, women’s adventure host and founder of Lapland Lowdown & Travel Her Way. She has travelled six continents and brings first-hand experience to every destination she writes about – from the Arctic wilderness of Finnish Lapland to the high Andes of Peru. Based in Melbourne, Australia, Erin helps long-haul travellers plan extraordinary Finnish Lapland adventures and leads small group trips for women who are ready to explore the world boldly.
