Timeline
17:04
Grab a drink or light snack at Rakas Restaurant & Bar. It is a fine dining spot with remarkable attention, so you can enjoy the atmosphere before heading out. Note that it is open until 24:00 on weekdays and 23:00 on Sundays.
17:19
Walk 30 minutes from the restaurant area up to Häkinvaara hut. This stone-built kota in Saarenkylä offers an amazing view over the rivers Ounasjoki and Kemijoki. Arrive early to find a good spot in front of the hut as the light changes.
17:49
Watch the sunset. On this date, the sun sets at 17:49 toward the WSW. The golden light starts around 16:30, giving you ample time to see the landscape transform. The low angle of the sun highlights the rivers and the stone structure.
18:19
Stay for a moment in the twilight. The view remains striking as the light fades. After the moment passes, you can head back down, having experienced the quiet beauty of the Arctic landscape at dusk.
Local tip
The walk from the town center to Häkinvaara can be chilly in October. Dress warmly. The golden light period is short, so timing your arrival at the hut is key to catching the best colors.
Check before you go
- Rakas Restaurant & Bar is open Mo-Sa 12:00-24:00 and Su 12:00-23:00.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Rovaniemi (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).