Kuusamos

Kuusamos is a town and municipality in the northern region of Nordlandia. It lies on the southern shores of Lake Vestar and is bordered by boreal forests and low hills. The municipality covers about 320 square kilometers and has a population of around 4,600 people. The climate is subarctic, with long, cold winters and short, cool summers.

Founded in the late 19th century as a timber settlement, Kuusamos developed around forestry and related industries. It gained municipal rights in 1919 and expanded services for residents in the mid-20th century. The town remains oriented toward natural resources and small-scale enterprise.

Economy and culture: The local economy relies on forestry, wood processing, and services, with growing emphasis on tourism tied to outdoor recreation. Popular activities include hiking, cross-country skiing, and lake fishing. The community hosts an annual winter market and a midsummer festival, reflecting a tradition of crafts and outdoor life.

Administration: Kuusamos is governed by a 15-member municipal council elected every four years. The executive role is held by a mayor who chairs council meetings and represents the municipality in regional matters. The population is primarily Finnish-speaking, with small groups speaking minority languages.

Sites of interest: Kuusamos Church (built 1923), the Old Mill Museum, and the nearby Kuusamos National Park offer cultural and natural highlights. The town is connected by regional roads; the nearest rail link and regional airport are in larger towns within 40–60 kilometers.