This “fishermen’s paradise” is also an ideal region for walkers, with nearly 100km of signposted paths. The excellent fishing is thanks to the 130 lakes, ponds and rivers in the area. Rare virgin forest and some of the world’s most northerly ancient rock art (c 2500-1500 BC) are to be found in this impressive natural setting, which was for centuries inhabited by the Sami, until the 18C when it was colonised by Finns expanding northwards.