Tankavaara Gold Village: A Golden Experience in Lapland
Nestled in the heart of Finnish Lapland, 225 kilometers north of Rovaniemi, lies a unique destination that brings the excitement of the gold rush era to life - the Tankavaara Gold Village. This remarkable site offers visitors a blend of history, adventure, and the chance to strike gold in the Land of the Midnight Sun.
A Rich History
The story of Tankavaara began in 1934 when gold was first discovered in the area, triggering a small-scale gold rush. Today, it stands as a testament to Finland's gold panning heritage and continues to attract gold enthusiasts from around the world.
The Gold Museum
At the heart of Tankavaara is the Gold Museum, established in 1973. It holds the distinction of being the world's only international gold museum, showcasing the history and techniques of gold panning from various parts of the globe. The museum offers a fascinating journey through time, from ancient gold artifacts to modern mining equipment.
Try Your Luck at Gold Panning
One of the main attractions of Tankavaara is the opportunity for visitors to try their hand at gold panning. The village offers guided gold panning tours and courses, allowing everyone from beginners to experienced prospectors to experience the thrill of finding gold in an authentic environment.
Gold panning activities are available daily from June to September, between 10 AM and 6 PM. Here's what you can expect from your gold panning adventure:
The Gold Panning Experience:
- Upon arrival, park your car at the Old Gold Panner's Restaurant and walk about 250 meters to the gold panning site. The restaurant staff can provide a map if needed.
- At the panning site, a guide will check your tickets (either digital or paper) and provide you with rubber boots if necessary.
- You'll receive gold pans and instructions on where to collect soil for panning.
- Expert guides will demonstrate the gold panning technique, ensuring you don't miss any nuggets.
- Beginners typically pan two to three pans in an hour, while experienced panners can process a pan per minute during competitions!
- You get to keep all the gold you find. Discoveries are classified by size, from the smallest "Lifeless" flakes to larger "Jewelry" nuggets.
What's Included:
- Guide services in Finnish and English
- All necessary equipment, including rubber boots and gold pans
- A vial to store your gold findings
- The right to keep all the gold you find
Packages and Prices:
- 1-hour gold panning session: Starting from €14
- Family day (all-day gold panning for the whole family): Starting from €60
- Gold panning holiday package (2 nights): Starting from €185
Tickets can be purchased online through the Tankavaara website or on-site at the restaurant or gold panning area.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply curious about gold panning, this hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with a fascinating aspect of Finnish culture and history. Who knows - you might even leave with a golden souvenir that you've panned yourself!
World Gold Panning Championships
Tankavaara is famous for hosting the annual Finnish and World Gold Panning Championships. These exciting events draw participants from across the globe, creating a festive atmosphere and showcasing impressive gold panning skills.
Accommodations and Services
The Gold Village caters to all types of visitors with various accommodation options:
- Cozy cabins for a comfortable stay
- A campsite for those who prefer a closer connection to nature
The village also features a restaurant serving local delicacies and a souvenir shop where you can find unique gold-themed mementos.
Educational Opportunities
Tankavaara is not just about entertainment; it's also an educational hub. The village offers courses and training sessions on gold panning, catering to both novices and experienced gold hunters. These programs provide valuable insights into the techniques and history of gold prospecting.
Nature Trail
For those interested in the local environment, Tankavaara features a nature trail that introduces visitors to the unique geology and vegetation of the area. It's a perfect way to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds the gold fields.
Planning Your Visit
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply curious about gold panning, Tankavaara Gold Village offers a unique experience. It's open year-round, with each season offering its own charm - from the midnight sun of summer to the Northern Lights of winter.
Remember to check the village's official website for up-to-date information on opening hours, event schedules, and any special exhibitions or activities.
A visit to Tankavaara is more than just a tourist experience; it's an opportunity to connect with a fascinating aspect of Finnish culture and history. Who knows - you might even leave with a golden souvenir that you've panned yourself!
