Experience Once-in-a-Lifetime Arctic Wonders
Lapland is more than just snow and cold; it's a playground of unique activities that you won't find anywhere else. Here’s how to make the most of your escape to the far north.
1. Witness the Aurora Borealis in Style
Seeing the Northern Lights is a bucket-list item for many, and Lapland is one of the best places on Earth to do it. For the most spectacular show, you need clear skies and minimal light pollution. While you can hunt for them yourself, why not do it in comfort?
Stay in a Glass Igloo: Imagine lying in a warm, comfortable bed, gazing up through a glass ceiling as the aurora dances across the sky. Hotels like the Star Arctic Hotel offer this incredible experience, merging comfort with the raw beauty of nature.
Northern Lights Safaris: Join a guided tour via snowmobile or minibus that takes you to the darkest, most optimal viewing spots. Many lodges even offer a wake-up call service, so you'll never miss a sighting.
2. Unleash Your Inner Adventurer with Arctic Safaris
The vast, frozen landscapes of Lapland are best explored with a bit of horsepower—either canine or machine.
Husky Sledding: This isn't just a tourist attraction; it's a core part of Sami culture. You can choose a relaxing ride, snuggled under warm blankets, or take the reins yourself and learn to 'mush' your own team of eager huskies through silent, snow-covered forests.
Snowmobile Safari: For a higher-octane thrill, rent a snowmobile and fly across frozen lakes and through sub-arctic forests. Tours range from a couple of hours to a full day, often including a stop for a hot drink or lunch by an open fire. Remember, you'll need a valid driver's license to operate one.
3. Discover Lapland's Unique Culture and Landscape
Beyond the thrills, Lapland offers deep cultural and natural experiences that provide a different kind of fulfillment.
Hike in Pyhä-Luosto National Park: A perfect day trip from the main hub of Rovaniemi, this park features ancient pine forests and stunning frozen lakes. Trails are available for all skill levels, but the landscape can be challenging, so always check local conditions or hire a guide.
Dig for Your Own Gems: Visit Lampivaara, home to Europe’s only active amethyst mine. In winter, you'll reach it via a rugged snow vehicle, adding to the adventure. Once there, you can dig for your own amethyst crystals—a unique souvenir from the heart of the earth.
Explore the Arktikum Science Museum: Take a break from the cold and delve into the science and history of the Arctic. Learn about how life adapts in the far north and the changes facing the region. Its iconic glass tunnel reaching towards the Ounasjoki River is also a fantastic spot for Northern Lights viewing on a dark night.
4. Experience the Unfiltered Magic of Christmas
Even if you're not visiting in December, Lapland is the official home of Christmas magic, offering a whimsical escape for all ages.
Santa Claus Village: Cross the actual Arctic Circle (marked with a white line), meet Santa Claus himself, and send a postcard from his official post office. It's kitschy, charming, and utterly unique. The Arctic Garden here is a prime spot for aurora viewing from August to April.
Stay at the Snow Village: For a truly unforgettable night, book a room in a hotel made entirely of ice and snow. Rebuilt annually with a new design, the Snow Village in Kittilä features an ice restaurant, an ice bar, and intricate snow sculptures illuminated in a fairytale glow.
5. Savor the Local Flavors
After a day in the sub-zero temperatures, nothing beats a warm, hearty meal. Be sure to try Lohikeitto, a traditional and delicious creamy salmon soup. Served piping hot with chunks of salmon, potato, and dill, it's the perfect way to warm up and refuel for your next adventure.
