Puolanka

Understand

Puolanka is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, consisting mainly of forests, rivers, and lakes. Puolanka's economy is largely based on forestry, agriculture, and tourism. Agricultural activities include livestock farming, cereal cultivation, and potato production. The municipality is also known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, especially fishing and hunting.

Getting there

By bus There are buses from Oulu, Kajaani and Suomussalmi.

By car Highway 78, between Paltamo (and connecting to Eastern Finland) and Rovaniemi is the main route through Puolanka. Other routes include local roads 800 from Vaala and Taivalkoski, 837 from Utajärvi (connecting from Oulu), and 891 from Hyrynsalmi.

See

1 Hepoköngäs - at 24 m one of Finland's highest waterfalls, in Hepoköngäs Nature Reserve; the 600-m trail to the waterfall is accessible by wheelchair.

2 Puolanka-Pirtti, Koskikatu 3. An old barn that has been turned into a local history museum. (updated Aug 2023)

Do

1 Paljakka. A ski resort in the winter, during the summer the place offers activities like hiking, mountain biking, fishing, canoeing, swimming, minigolf and dish golf. (updated Aug 2023)

Eat

1 Ravintola Esteri, Ouluntie 4. Lunch buffet, and kebab, burgers and pizzas on the menu. (updated Aug 2023)

Sleep

1 Pororajan majoitus, Pudasjärventie 1, ☏ +358 500 282 884, [email protected]. Rooms for rent and a campsite. (updated Aug 2023) In addition, the Paljakka resort has multiple hotels.