The Sacred Seidas of North Europe: Mount Vottovaara
The Seida, also known as Sami Seida or Seita, is a sacred place for the North European people, particularly the Saami or Lapps. It can be a special spot in the mountains, tundra, taiga, or any other natural formation such as a stone, stump, lake. The Seida also encompasses artifacts like stone structures.
One such Seida can be found on Mount Vottovaara and is comprised of a large boulder resting on three smaller stones, which are placed on top of another large boulder.
Photo by depositphotos.com
These sacred stone structures can also be found in Russia‘s Karelia and Kola regions, as well as in Scandinavia.
Photo by depositphotos.com
Mount Vottovaara is located in Karelia, Russia.
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Mount Vottovaara National Park official south-entrance campsite beside the trailhead, Karelia, Russia (not the summit or seida formations)
- Coordinates
- 63.0598217, 32.6109046
- Access
- A park permit is required before entering Mount Vottovaara National Park. Vodlozero National Park says to apply 3–5 days before arrival and carry the permit for the full stay; the application asks for intended dates and route. Movement in protected zones is restricted to approved routes. Confirm current permits, road and weather conditions, fire rules and emergency-notification guidance with the park before travel.
- Admission
- The park’s 2026 rules list a one-time entry charge of RUB 400 per person under its February 18, 2026 order; exemptions are listed separately. A permit is also required and should be requested 3–5 days before arrival. Confirm the fee, permit process and any new-season rules directly with Vodlozero National Park.
- Time needed
- No official fixed duration is published. An independent 2026 visitor guide recommends several hours for the mountain route; time varies by route, weather and approved access. This is a hiking estimate, not a guaranteed tour duration.
- Best season
- A 2026 regional visitor guide favors summer and early autumn for hiking and easier logistics. Rain is possible; use grippy footwear and check the park’s current conditions and permit before setting out.
- Opening hours
- No daily public opening hours are published. The park requires an advance permit for the specific dates and route; apply 3–5 days before arrival and carry it during the stay. Access depends on the authorized route, road conditions, weather and current park restrictions.
- Location checked
- 2026-10-27
- Facts checked
- 2026-11-02
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A wonderful collection of photos! Thank you for sharing.