The wilderness church of Lake Pielpajärvi is of cultural and historical significance for many reasons. It is the old winter village of Inari, where people gathered to stay for the winter months during centuries. Built in 1760, it is one of the oldest buildings in northern Lapland.

It was in use until the end of the 19th century and nowadays puts on special services during Easter and Midsummer. The church is also a popular site for weddings.

In the summertime, Pielpajärvi is only accessible by foot along a 5 km hiking path or by boat from Pielpavuono pier in Lake Inarijärvi. In the wintertime it can be reached by skiing and snowmobile.

The church is always open and can be visited freely.

• Destination

  North Lapland

• Country

  Finland

• Type of experience

  Culture

• Best time to visit

  • Winter
  • Spring
  • Autumn
  • Summer

• Nearby stations

  • Enontekiö Airport