A Sámi settlement in Koppsele is already shown on maps from 1671. Koppsele is one of the oldest Sámi settlements in Malå. You can reach the site on foot or by boat; boat access may depend on local arrangements and conditions. This is where discovering Malå begins—with a story rooted in the municipality’s landscape.

Sámi Heritage and Local History

The Máláge Sámienseäbrrie / Malå sameförening works to preserve, promote, and develop Sámi cultural heritage in Malå through activities, meeting places, and cultural events for members and visitors. This connects Koppsele’s historical perspective with cultural work in the municipality today.

Malå hembygdsgård also brings together different chapters of local history. There are 13 buildings on the site in total, most of which date from the second half of the 19th century. Visitor attractions include a local heritage museum, an exhibition on the history of Kniv-Eli, a museum about the 1960s, and a traditional bakehouse. Offerings may vary by season.

Forests, Wetlands, and Protected Areas

Malå is in the inland part of Västerbottens län and includes Lapland’s natural forests, extensive wetlands, and the waters of the Malån. There are 17 nature reserves in the municipality; reserve listings may be updated. Malå-Storforsen Nature Reserve includes the Storforsen gorge and stretches of rapids both upstream and downstream. An old log-floating hut stands on the north bank within the reserve.

The marked Koppsele hiking trail passes through a nature reserve and is about two kilometres long. Local conditions may vary. This short trail makes for an independent hiking option, while other routes in Malå vary in length and type.

Winter and Summer Outdoors

Tjamstanbackarna has four ski lifts and ten runs. Since the facilities may change, check current operations before your visit. The cross-country trails at Tjamstanvallen range from beginner to competition level, with tracks for both classic and skating styles. Grooming is seasonal. Malå skoterklubb, together with the villages, builds and maintains the municipality of Malå’s entire winter trail network on a voluntary basis. Winter conditions and map arrangements are seasonal.

In summer, Tjamstanberget is suitable for mountain biking and downhill cycling, as well as hiking and trail running. Cykelled Broarna runt is an approximately 30-kilometre cycling loop along the Malån River. The cycle path between Almbo and Brännäs is about 13 kilometres long and passes through forest and natural areas. The different route lengths and the loop or connecting-route formats give cyclists practical points of reference when choosing a route.

Fishing, Swimming, and Getting Around

There are seven fishing areas in the municipality. The “Malåkortet” fishing permit provides access to five fishing areas; permit arrangements may vary seasonally. Check the fishing rules and access before setting out. Local fishing guides can be booked, for example, if you are a beginner or want to learn more about the waters. Confirm their availability before your trip.

In Svedjan, a small beach and a jetty make it easier to access the water for swimming. You can also rent a boat there to explore the lake. Släppträsk swimming area has a long sandy beach and shallow water. Swimming and boating facilities are seasonal. The municipality has two staffed InfoPoints where you can get tips on local sights and current events. Check their service arrangements before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Malå, Adak, Åsele, Sorsele, Lycksele, Nordmaling, Norsjö, Bjurholm.

For the broader travel overview: Västerbotten.