Things to see and experience
The beautiful nature of Tervola, with its rivers and hills, is a sight in itself. Thanks to the human life that has flourished in Tervola since historical times, the area also has culturally interesting sites. Here are a few of them. The Tervola Info Map helps to find the locations of these points of interest.
-
Historical sites
In Tervola, one can dive into life of the past all the way back to the Stone Age. The Törmävaara Stone Village offers a journey into prehistory. The area can be explored either with a guided tour or on your own. The more recent local history of Peräpohjola can be explored at the Tervola Local Heritage Museum. Traditional church architecture can be experienced through the Orthodox tsasouna chapel in Törmävaara and the church landscape of the central village.
Törmävaara stone village – Step Back 6,000 Years
Address: Tsasounantie 16, 95300 Tervola
Did you know that Tervola was once a true metropolis of the Stone Age? The municipality is home to one of Europe’s largest and most unified prehistoric settlements.’
At Törmävaara Stone Village, you’ll find the historic Varejoki village school, now hosting an exhibition that showcases Tervola’s fascinating ancient history. To truly feel the spirit of the Stone Age, explore the turf hut-inspired dwellings built on-site.
Grab a backpack and walk the same paths where life thrived 6,000 years ago – an unforgettable journey into Lapland’s past!
More information at Varejoki Village Association website
Tervola Local Heritage Museum – Step Into the Past
Address: Nelostie 373, 95300 Tervola
Discover the charm of traditional Peräpohjola culture at the Tervola Local Heritage Museum. The museum grounds feature 30 unique buildings, each offering a glimpse into life as it once was. Here, history doesn’t gather dust – visitors can experience it hands-on, exploring authentic interiors and artifacts.
Stroll through the exhibition park, where a diverse collection of local plant species awaits, including a few rare gems. For many of us, the idyllic atmosphere of our grandparents’ homes is just a memory – but here, you can relive it and share it with your children.
Read more on Museonraitti’s homepage
Trifon Petsamo tsasouna chapel
Address: Tsasounantie 1, 95300 Tervola (next to Törmävaaran stone village)
Discover the southernmost Orthodox tsasouna chapel in Lapland, located in Tervola’s Varejoki area, right next to the Törmävaara Stone Village. This beautiful tsasouna is part of the rich Petsamo heritage and is dedicated to Monk Trifon, a revered figure in Finnish Orthodox history.
Step into a serene atmosphere that reflects centuries of spiritual tradition and cultural depth – a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts visiting Lapland.
Tervola Church Landscape – A Journey Through Centuries
Address: M.A. Castrenintie 4, 95300 Tervola
Just a short walk from Tervola’s center, on the lush banks of the Kemijoki River, visitors will discover an idyllic church setting unlike any other. The area features a rare gem – an old wooden church built in 1687, a true masterpiece of Finnish heritage.
In the same courtyard, you’ll find a slightly newer large wooden church and a modern parish center with elegant marble walls. This unique site allows you to explore three centuries of church architecture in one peaceful location. Visit the Tervola Parish website for more information about local churches, events, and community activities.
-
Nature sites
Kätkävaara Nature trail
Address: Leirikätkä 74, 97140 Tervola
Kätkävaara is a rocky fell located in the northern part of the municipality of Tervola, featuring the Kätkävaara Nature Trail, which is 7 kilometers long in total. The stone fields of Kätkävaara are impressive ancient shorelines, often also referred to as devil’s fields. The nature trail is a loop route that showcases the diverse nature of the area. The route is moderately challenging, and depending on your pace, it is advisable to allow 3-4 hours to complete it. Along the marked trail, there are also two campfire sites and a fire shelter at the top of the fell. The route is 7 km long. On the Kätkävaara nature trail, there is also a separate 600-meter accessible route around Perälampi.
At the beginning of the trail, there is a campfire site and a toilet, and at the top of the trail, you will find a lookout tower, a log hut, and a toilet. There are a total of 19 information points along the trail.
Explore Kätkävaara – A Lapland Adventure Awaits
Elijärvi Bird tower
On the shore of Lake Elijärvi, between Hastinkangas (Kuksa) and Törmävaara. Elijärvi is a rather small lake with shores that are becoming overgrown, and it hosts many migratory birds, especially in spring. There is signage to the birdwatching tower from the cart track intersecting Törmävaara Mastotie.
-
Visitor Services in Tervola
Tervola offers travelers the true spirit of Lapland combined with a wide range of services that make your stay effortless and memorable. Local businesses provide everything from essential services to unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, traveling with family, or looking for high-quality activities, you’ll find the best local options right here.
-
Fitness Trails and Swimming Spots in Tervola
The forests, fells, and rivers of Tervola invite you to enjoy the great outdoors and refresh your mind and body. In addition to the surrounding nature, Tervola offers several built sports facilities, outdoor routes, and recreational areas for visitors of all ages.
Explore also:
Share this page on social media
