Timeline
13:22
Arrive at the burial site. The path is signposted off Highway 12. Walk the short loop among the cairns while the light is still bright enough to see the details of the stone piles without squinting. The site is free to enter, but if you want a guide, they charge €2 per person. At this time of day, the low sun casts long shadows that define the shapes of the cairns.
14:07
Stand still and watch the golden light hit the stones. The sun is setting toward the SW, illuminating the eastern faces of the cairns. This is the peak visual moment. The 36 burial mounds, ranging from small heaps to larger, more complex structures, will appear warm and textured against the grey winter landscape. Stay for the full glow as the light begins to fade.
14:37
Head back toward the road as the light fades. The site is closed to the public after dark, and visibility will drop quickly. Retrace your steps to the parking area or the signposted exit on Highway 12. Since there are no food or drink shops within walking distance of the site, you will need to drive to Rauma centre or the nearby village of Lappi for a meal or warm drink.
Local tip
The site is located 3.25 km north-west by road from the church of Lappi. Lappi is 18 km east-southeast from Rauma centre. Bring warm layers; the exposure on the hill is windy, and the temperature drops rapidly after sunset.
Check before you go
- The site is free, but guided tours cost €2/person.
- Sunset on 15 January is at 15:54. Golden light starts at 14:07.
- The site is accessible by road, but winter conditions may require a car or taxi from Rauma.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Rauma (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).