For those seeking a travel experience beyond the ordinary, an exceptional opportunity awaits near Kiruna, Sweden’s northernmost gem. The small village of Kilpisjärvi is the starting point for a unique journey to Treriksröset, the convergence point of Sweden, Finland, and Norway.
So, if you manage to visit that tri-point, you visit three European countries in three seconds! Here’s where to go.
A Unique Place
At Treriksröset, a significant piece of history stands tall. Originating in 1897, this marker was jointly placed by Russians and Norwegians to delineate the border during a time when the Finnish section was under Russian rule. In 1926, it saw a replacement, and today, it serves as a symbolic intersection of three European nations.
The small wooden walkway leading to the cairn offers a brief but thrilling stroll where you can boast of standing in multiple countries at once.
Charting Your Own Course
The journey to Treriksröset isn’t a leisurely walk in the park. Adventurers can choose an 11-kilometer hike, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of Malla, Finland’s oldest national park. highly recommended for nature lovers.
For those favoring a more relaxed pace, the M/S Malla, a 45-minute tourist boat available from midsummer to September’s end, presents a scenic alternative. From Koltaluokta, a manageable 3-kilometer hike is a nice option.
A Global Phenomenon Beyond Borders
While Treriksröset holds its unique charm, it’s not the only “tri-point” in the world. The United Nations registry showcases approximately 176 tri-points worldwide, each with its own story.
Whether it’s the intersection of Germany, France, and Switzerland or the intriguing ‘quadripoint’ where Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe meet, these spots are perfect for a geography lover’s bucket list. The question is, can you tick them all off?!