Summer in Ylläs’s magnificent fell landscape offers diverse opportunities to refresh yourself in natural waters. Clean and clear lakes and ponds invite you to enjoy summer days in the water. Although Lapland is best known for its winter activities, summer in Ylläs offers unique swimming experiences in the heart of nature. Here is a comprehensive guide to summer swimming locations and tips for the Ylläs area for your vacation.
Where can you swim in the Ylläs area during summer?
The Ylläs area has several magnificent swimming spots that offer refreshment during the warmest summer days. The natural waters are clean and clear, making them attractive places for recreation. The most popular swimming locations are the shores of Äkäslompolo and Ylläsjärvi, which are situated close to the villages and accommodations. Additionally, the area features numerous smaller ponds and lakes where you can enjoy a more peaceful swimming experience.
The swimming season in Ylläs typically begins around mid-June and continues until the end of August. The temperature of natural waters during the summer months usually varies between 14-20 degrees Celsius, with the warmest days occurring in July. In Lapland, summer nights are bright, which makes swimming possible even late in the evening.
What are the best natural lakes for swimming in the Ylläs area?
Äkäslompolo is one of the most popular and largest lakes in the area. Its shores are mostly sandy-bottomed and gradually deepening, making it ideal for swimming. The lake is known for its exceptionally clean water and beautiful landscapes. Äkäslompolo is located next to the village of the same name, so it is easily accessible from many accommodations.
Another popular swimming destination is Ylläsjärvi, which is located next to Ylläsjärvi village. Its shores are rocky in places, but the lake also has fine sandy beaches. Ylläsjärvi is known for its spectacular views, as you can enjoy swimming while admiring the silhouette of Ylläs fell. The lake is easily accessible from AuroraCottage cabins.
Smaller but popular natural lakes in the area include Luosujärvi and Kesänkijärvi. Both have peaceful shores and clear water. These lakes are especially popular among locals and offer an opportunity to enjoy swimming in a more tranquil environment.
Are there official swimming beaches in Ylläs?
The Ylläs area has a few official swimming beaches that offer more services than unofficial natural swimming spots. Äkäslompolo beach is the area’s most well-known official beach, featuring changing facilities, toilet services, and sometimes even lifeguards on busiest summer days. The beach is well-maintained and safe, making it popular especially among families with children.
Ylläsjärvi beach, located near Ylläsjärvi village, is another official swimming place with some basic services. The beach infrastructure is not as developed as in Äkäslompolo, but it still offers a safe and pleasant swimming environment.
The advantage of official beaches compared to unofficial natural swimming spots is their better equipment, regular water quality monitoring, and possible supervision. They are also often more accessible and have clear signage. Unofficial swimming spots, on the other hand, offer more privacy and a more nature-oriented experience.
When is the water warmest in Ylläs lakes?
The water in the Ylläs area lakes warms up slowly due to the northern location. July is typically the warmest month, when water temperatures can rise to 18-20 degrees Celsius during particularly warm summers. In June, the water temperature is usually still quite cool, about 10-15 degrees, which may be too cold for many swimmers.
In early August, the waters are still relatively warm, but toward the end of the month they begin to cool rapidly. Statistics show that the best swimming days typically occur from mid-July to early August, when the water temperature is at its most pleasant.
It’s good to note that surface water temperatures can vary significantly in different parts of the same lake. Shallow bays warm up faster, while deeper open waters remain cooler. During the day, shore water heated by the sun can be several degrees warmer than the middle of the lake.
Can you swim in Ylläs during winter?
Yes, winter swimming or ice swimming is popular in the Ylläs area. Äkäslompolo ice swimming spot is a well-equipped location with a warm changing room and sauna. Winter swimming is a special experience combining the health benefits of cold water and the enchanting landscape of Lapland in winter. At best, you can enjoy the Northern Lights while refreshing yourself in icy water.
Winter swimming requires appropriate equipment, such as a warm towel, swimsuit, wool socks, hat, and sandals or slippers. Many more experienced winter swimmers also use neoprene gloves and booties. Safety is extremely important, so you should never go ice swimming alone.
Our AuroraCottage cabins have good connections to winter swimming spots, and we can help our guests find suitable ice swimming locations. Often the winter swimming experience is combined with sauna bathing, which makes the experience perfect.
Swimming opportunities for families with children in the Ylläs area
The best swimming places for families with children in Ylläs are Äkäslompolo official beach and the shallower shores of Ylläsjärvi. In these locations, the water deepens gradually, making them safe for younger swimmers as well. Äkäslompolo beach often has other families too, which makes the swimming trip more enjoyable.
Many beaches have sandy bottoms where it’s fun to play and build sand castles. It’s worth checking the water temperature before swimming, especially in early summer, as the waters may still be too cool for children.
We recommend families bring snacks, swimming toys, and towels. Many beaches have nearby picnic areas, so the swimming trip can easily be combined with a pleasant outdoor lunch. Some beaches also have playgrounds that offer additional entertainment for children.
Essential tips for swimmers in Ylläs waterways
When swimming in the Ylläs area, it’s worth remembering that northern natural waters may be cooler than what you might be used to. Check the water temperature before going swimming and prepare accordingly. Many of our guests enjoy swimming most after sauna, when even cool water doesn’t feel unpleasant.
We recommend taking into account Lapland’s weather conditions, which can change quickly even in summer. It’s worth packing both sunscreen and warm clothing for after swimming. Also note that during the midnight sun period, you can enjoy swimming even in the middle of the night!
Although lake water is generally clean, it’s good to consider that blue-green algae may occur in natural waters during warm summers. Monitor water quality and avoid swimming if algal blooms are visible in the water.
Many AuroraCottage guests have shared that Äkäslompolo lake at sunset or Ylläsjärvi with the fell silhouette in the landscape have been the most unforgettable experiences of their vacation. So enjoy not only the waters but also the spectacular scenery!