Winter in Finnish Lapland is a season of unparalleled beauty and adventure, offering experiences that capture the magic of the Arctic. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the Northern Lights, the serenity of snow-covered forests, or a deep dive into the rich Sámi culture, this region has something for every traveler. Here are ten must-try winter experience for the whole family, set in this enchanting part of the world.
1. Explore the Arctic Wilderness
National Parks: Finland’s Lapland North is home to two of its largest national parks, Lemmenjoki and Urho Kekkonen. These vast landscapes transform into a snowy wonderland in winter, perfect for activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hiking. The pristine, unspoiled wilderness offers a peaceful escape, with opportunities to see native wildlife and enjoy the quiet beauty of the Arctic. Guided tours can enrich your experience by providing insights into the local flora, fauna, and history.
Snow Safaris: For those who crave a faster pace, snowmobile safaris offer an exhilarating way to explore the Arctic wilderness. Racing across frozen lakes and through snow-draped forests, you might even spot reindeer or moose in their natural habitat. Alternatively, husky sledding offers a more traditional way to traverse the landscape, where you can lead your own team of eager dogs through the pristine snow.
2. Delve into Sámi Culture
Inari – The Heart of Sámi Culture: Inari is the cultural epicenter for the Sámi, the indigenous people of Lapland. During winter, the Siida Museum in Inari becomes a window into the Sámi way of life, offering exhibitions on their history, culture, and the Arctic environment. You can also engage in traditional Sámi activities, such as handicraft workshops, where you’ll learn to make items like reindeer leather goods or jewelry, preserving the artistry of the Sámi people.
Sámi Festivals and Events: Winter in Lapland North is rich with cultural events that celebrate Sámi heritage. The Skábmagovat Film Festival, for instance, showcases indigenous films from the Arctic regions. Meanwhile, winter solstice celebrations feature storytelling, traditional music, and a chance to sample Sámi cuisine.
3. Savour Traditional Sámi Cuisine
Local Ingredients and Dishes: Sámi cuisine is deeply rooted in the natural surroundings of Lapland. Reindeer meat is a staple, often served sautéed with mashed potatoes and lingonberries, or smoked alongside traditional bread. Fish, especially salmon, is also a key ingredient, frequently grilled or smoked and paired with fresh herbs. Cloudberries, a rare Arctic berry, feature prominently in desserts and sauces, offering a unique taste of the region.
Culinary Tours: Explore Sámi food culture through culinary tours, where you can visit local farms, meet Sámi herders, and participate in cooking workshops. Some tours include foraging trips, allowing you to gather wild ingredients like mushrooms and berries, providing a deeper connection to the land.
4. Chase the Northern Lights
Guided Northern Lights Tours: Rovaniemi is one of the prime locations in Finland to witness the Aurora Borealis. From September to April, guided tours take you away from city lights to optimize your chances of seeing this spectacular natural phenomenon. Many tours include extras like campfires, where you can warm up with hot drinks and traditional Finnish snacks as you wait for the lights to dance across the sky. For photography enthusiasts, some tours offer tips on how to capture the Aurora’s elusive beauty.
Aurora Domes and Glass Igloos: To experience the Northern Lights in comfort, consider staying in an Aurora Dome or Glass Igloo. These unique accommodations feature large glass windows or ceilings, allowing you to watch the Northern Lights from your bed. Some even offer heated outdoor jacuzzis, so you can relax in warmth while the Aurora glows above you.
5. Ski and Snowboard at Levi
Skiing and Snowboarding: Levi is one of Finland’s premier ski resorts, offering a long ski season, well-maintained slopes, and modern facilities. With 43 slopes catering to all levels, Levi is ideal for everyone from beginners to seasoned skiers. The resort also boasts extensive off-piste areas for those seeking more adventurous runs. For cross-country skiing enthusiasts, Levi has a vast network of trails, some of which are illuminated for evening excursions.
Après-Ski and Nightlife: After a day on the slopes, Levi comes alive with a vibrant après-ski scene. Cozy mountain restaurants offer warm drinks and hearty meals by the fire, while bars and nightclubs provide live music and entertainment. Levi also hosts major winter events like the World Cup Levi, attracting international skiing talent and fans.
6. Family Fun at Ruka
Family-Friendly Skiing: Ruka is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and excellent facilities for beginners and children. The resort’s dedicated family park features gentle slopes, magic carpets, and ski schools tailored to all ages. Ruka’s slopes are also equipped with advanced snowmaking technology, ensuring great skiing conditions throughout the winter.
Beyond Skiing: Ruka offers more than just skiing. Try ice climbing on frozen waterfalls, embark on a snowmobile safari, or go husky sledding for a true Arctic adventure. For something different, explore the nearby Oulanka National Park on a winter hike or snowshoeing trip, where you might encounter reindeer or arctic hares.
7. Extreme Winter Adventures
Snowmobile Safaris: For an adrenaline-pumping adventure, snowmobile safaris in Ivalo and Inari are a thrilling way to explore the Arctic. Ride through frozen lakes and snowy forests, with the chance to spot wildlife like reindeer or arctic foxes. Some tours even take you to the Arctic Ocean’s edge, offering stunning views of Europe’s northernmost landscapes.
Ice Fishing: Ice fishing is a popular winter activity in Lapland, where you can try your luck at catching species like perch, trout, and pike. Guided tours will take you to the best spots, and some include the option to cook your catch over an open fire, providing a fresh, delicious meal in the heart of nature.
8. Book A Secluded Hideaway
For those seeking a cosy and secluded winter retreat, private villas in the heart of Finnish Lapland offer the perfect escape. These exclusive accommodations provide a blend of privacy, comfort, and access to the stunning natural beauty of the Arctic wilderness. Imagine waking up to panoramic views of snow-covered landscapes from the large windows of your villa, where the pristine wilderness stretches out before you.
These villas are designed to cater to every need, featuring high-end amenities such as private saunas, outdoor hot tubs, and gourmet kitchens. After a day of adventure, you can unwind in your own sauna or enjoy a soak in a hot tub while surrounded by the tranquility of the snowy surroundings. For those looking to elevate their experience, private chefs are available to prepare meals using locally sourced ingredients, offering a taste of the region’s finest flavours.
9. Enjoy Fine Dining in the Wilderness
Gourmet Dining Experiences: Lapland offers several fine dining options in extraordinary settings. Imagine a multi-course meal in a glass igloo, with the Northern Lights dancing overhead, or a private dinner in a wilderness lodge, where a chef prepares gourmet dishes using locally sourced ingredients, paired with fine wines or regional spirits.
Food and Nature Pairings: For an immersive experience, consider dining after a nature activity. Begin with a snowshoe hike through the forest, followed by a meal cooked over an open fire in a traditional Sámi tent (kota). These experiences blend food and nature, creating memorable connections between the two.
10. Unwind with Arctic Spa Experiences
Traditional Finnish Sauna: No visit to Finland is complete without experiencing a traditional sauna. In winter, many saunas offer stunning views of the snowy landscape, often located by frozen lakes where you can take an invigorating dip in the ice-cold water after a hot sauna session. This contrast of heat and cold is believed to boost circulation and strengthen the immune system.
Outdoor Hot Tubs and Ice Swimming: For a unique spa experience, try ice swimming followed by a soak in an outdoor hot tub. Many luxury accommodations in Lapland offer hot tubs where you can relax in the warm water while surrounded by snow and ice. Some places also offer guided ice swimming sessions, where you can safely take a dip in a hole cut into a frozen lake.
Winter in Scandinavia is a season that goes beyond mere cold and darkness, offering a vibrant and magical array of experiences that showcase the best of the Arctic. From the serene beauty of snow-covered national parks and the thrill of chasing the Northern Lights, to the deep cultural immersion in Sámi traditions and the comfort of secluded retreats, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you seek adventure, tranquility, or a taste of indigenous culture, these ten unforgettable winter experiences will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
