Kotisaari

Slipping through the waters of the Kemijoki River, imagine a time when Kotisaari wasn’t a peaceful escape, but a bustling hub for Rovaniemi’s lumberjacks. Kotisaari, a small island nestled in the Kemijoki River near Rovaniemi, holds a unique piece of Finnish history. From the late 19th century, it served as a vital stronghold for the lumberjack trade. The Kemijoki and Ounasjoki rivers were the lifeblood of the industry. Logs floated down these waterways, driving the economy of Rovaniemi. Kotisaari was strategically placed. It served as a central point for the lumberjacks to gather, store supplies, and repair equipment. The island buzzed with activity. It was a rough and tumble world, filled with the sounds of saws, axes, and the shouts of men hard at work. But by the 1980s, the river’s reign as a log highway ended. Trucks became the preferred mode of transport, and Kotisaari’s role in the lumber trade faded. The island could have become a forgotten relic. Instead, it was given a new life. Today, Lapland Safaris operates trips to Kotisaari from May to October. Visitors can experience the island’s tranquility and learn about its lumberjack past. The old boathouse has even been transformed into a tavern, offering a taste of local hospitality. So, as you stand on the banks of the Kemijoki, picture the ghosts of lumberjacks past. Remember their legacy on Kotisaari. It’s a reminder of how Rovaniemi’s history is intertwined with the river and this small, unassuming island.