Arctic Homestead
Tarkkala Homestead in Savukoski provides filmmakers with a historic and authentic backdrop, showcasing traditional Finnish living and nature.
Tarkkala Homestead, nestled in Savukoski, stands as a testament to resilience and history, having survived the ravages of the Lapland War. Established in the late 19th century, this cultural and historical gem exemplifies traditional Finnish homestead living. Despite its remote location, Tarkkala’s rich logging and reindeer herding paths connect it to a vibrant past where it served as a crucial hub for workers and travelers alike.
Restored meticulously between 2004-2006 by the municipality of Savukoski, Tarkkala Homestead offers filmmakers an authentic glimpse into life a century ago. The estate, featuring a traditional northern courtyard, main residence, barn, and a collection of preserved outbuildings including a smoke sauna and storerooms, provides a versatile backdrop perfect for storytelling.
Accessibility is straightforward, ensuring smooth logistics for crews. Tarkkala’s preservation and experts from the Lapland Provincial Museum underscore its educational and experiential value. For filmmakers seeking a location rich in narrative depth, historical authenticity, and natural beauty, Tarkkala Homestead presents an unparalleled opportunity.
Note: there is no electricity at Tarkkala. Productions must provide their own generators or batteries, as necessary.
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Accommodation
Through a tourism boom in Savukoski, accommodations have improved in the past decade, but it’s still limited. In the town center, you can find a hotel and B&B, and there are rental cottages and other options through the municipality.
Restaurants & Catering
Accommodation providers are probably the best bet when it comes to catering and food services in Savukoski.
Other services
Additional services offered in Savukoski include:
- Nature touring
- Horseback riding
- Reindeer & husky experiences
- Nature equipment rentals
- ATV & snowmobile rentals
- Guide services
The Savukoski travel site is the best source of information on accommodation and services.
Lapland’s five airports and well-maintained roads keep Savukoski accessible all year round. Tarkkala Homestead is about 25 kilometers from the Savukoski village center.
BY PLANE
Rovaniemi’s international airport is about 2 hours by car, and offers connections to Helsinki and other European cities daily, with additional connections worldwide in winter. Other nearby airports include Kittilä (2 h 15 min), Ivalo (2 h 45 min), and Kuusamo (2 h 30 min).
BY TRAIN
The nearest railway stations to Savukoski are in Kemijärvi (1 h 15 min) and Rovaniemi (2 h). Check VR for timetables and train tickets.
BY BUS
Traveling to Savukoski is as easy as hopping a bus. Check Matkahuolto for schedules and bus tickets.
BY TAXI
Savukoski provides pre-booked taxi service from your last bus or train stop at bus fares. You must book by the day before your trip. Visit the Savukoski travel website for more info.
BY CAR
Well-maintained highways, national roads and local roads means you can always reach Savukoski by car.
FILM EQUIPMENT & CREW
Lapland offers wide-ranging professional production services across the region. Contact us, and we’ll assist you in finding the perfect match for your needs.
PERMITS
While you are free to visit the Tarkkala Homestead without invitation, you must contact the owner—the municipality of Savukoski—municipality directly to enter the buildings.
The forests and nature around Tarkkala are covered by Everyone’s Right, which means small productions are free to film without permits, as long as they heed the rules. Larger productions should contact Savukoski directly to arrange for film permits as necessary.
Film Lapland is not in charge of film permits, but we’re happy to help you find the relevant authorities. Contact us today!
