Situated about 50 miles south of Rovaniemi, Ranua is a popular destination, in part for its internationally renowned Ranua Wildlife Park. The quiet environment of this small municipality makes it especially attractive for families. The Simojärvi and Soppanen region is surrounded by wilderness, and Ranua is famous for its fine cloudberry fields.
Must-see historical locations include Ranua Church, a small timber church in the centre, and the Vicarage and Parish Museum in Ranua, located in a rural vicarage built in 1916 and refurbished in styles ranging from the 1930s to 1950s. The museum exhibition in the attic has a fascinating collection of local items from days gone by.
The biggest attraction in Ranua is its wildlife park, which is home to Finland’s only polar bears, as well as 50 other arctic species. See wild beasts ranging from lynx to wolverines, predatory birds and several deer species. Instead of being confined in cages, the animals are free to roam in large open spaces in their natural northern environment.
Ranua Wildlife Park is open all-year round, and only a few of its inhabitants hibernate during the winter. In summer, the park organises feeding shows, during which the caretakers answer audience questions. Smaller members of the family can also visit the domestic animal park and the mini car track, where children can drive around in a supervised environment. During the winter, you can meet the happy dogs of the Wild Arctic Husky Park or enjoy the cool environment of the Igloo Bar, built yearly from ice and snow.
The Simojoki River and Lake Simojärvi provide excellent fishing spots and are good for hiking. You can organise an inexpensive holiday in Ranua by hiking in its ancient woods and versatile swamps, or through the gorgeous scenery along the Palovaara Sightseeing Trail.
Ranua can be reached from the north or south along road 78. The nearest railway station and airport are in Rovaniemi. If you visit Ranua in August, make sure that you visit the Cloudberry market.
