A Winter Wonderland Adventure in Lapland, Finland
Updated: 5 days ago
Lapland, Finland, is a dream destination for those seeking the magic of winter. Known for its spectacular Northern Lights, snowy landscapes, and unique winter activities, Lapland offers an unforgettable experience. Here's a guide to making the most of your trip, from cosy stays to local flavours, thrilling activities, and insider tips.
Where to Stay
Santa Claus Holiday Village (Rovaniemi) For families and festive travellers, Santa Claus Holiday Village in Rovaniemi is ideal. Located right on the Arctic Circle, this holiday village offers charming cabins with private saunas and easy access to Santa’s Office. You can stay within the magic, just steps away from activities like reindeer sleigh rides.
Levi Igloos Want to stargaze from your bed? The Levi Igloos offer glass-roofed igloos where you can watch the Northern Lights and snowy scenery from the comfort of a warm, luxury dome. Each igloo comes with a kitchenette and a private bathroom, perfect for a romantic retreat.
Snow Hotel (SnowVillage, Lainio) For a truly unique experience, consider the Snow Hotel. This magical space is carved entirely from snow and ice, with intricate ice sculptures and cosy sleeping bags to keep you warm. It’s an experience that adds a real sense of adventure to your stay!
What to Eat
Reindeer Dishes Reindeer meat is a staple in Lapland and a must-try delicacy. From smoked reindeer (poronkäristys) served with mashed potatoes and lingonberries to reindeer jerky, it’s a taste of local culture.
Lappish Cheese with Cloudberry Jam Known locally as leipäjuusto, this squeaky cheese is often served warm with a dollop of sweet and tangy cloudberry jam. It’s a delightful snack or dessert, bringing out the flavours of Lapland’s wild berries.
Salmon Soup Known as lohikeitto, this creamy soup is the perfect dish to warm you up after a day in the snow. It’s usually made with fresh salmon, potatoes, leeks, and dill, creating a hearty and flavourful meal.
What to Do
Husky and Reindeer Safaris Experience Lapland’s wilderness by joining a husky or reindeer safari. Husky sledding through snow-covered forests is an exhilarating experience, while reindeer safaris offer a gentler, more traditional way to explore the surroundings.
Chase the Northern Lights Lapland is one of the best places in the world to witness the Aurora Borealis. Book a guided Northern Lights tour, which can take you to the darkest, most promising locations for spotting this natural phenomenon.
Ice Fishing and Snowshoeing For a taste of local life, try ice fishing on one of Lapland’s frozen lakes, followed by snowshoeing through serene pine forests. It’s a peaceful way to connect with nature, and many guided tours include warm beverages to enjoy along the way.
Insider Tips
Best Time to See the Northern Lights The Northern Lights are best seen between September and April, with higher chances during the colder months from December to February. To improve your chances, avoid nights with a full moon and stay away from city lights.
Dress for the Arctic Layering is key. Pack thermals, thick socks, windproof jackets, and a balaclava. Most accommodations and tour operators provide extra outer layers if needed, but being well-prepared will keep you comfortable.
Book Activities in Advance Lapland is a popular winter destination, so it’s wise to book your activities ahead of time, especially for Christmas or New Year holidays. This includes Northern Lights tours, husky safaris, and igloo accommodations.
Lapland is more than just a destination; it’s an experience filled with culture, tradition, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. Whether you’re there to meet Santa, catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, or indulge in hearty Lappish cuisine, this Finnish wonderland is sure to leave lasting memories.
Comments