1. Experience the Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, is a natural phenomenon of bright lights dancing in the night sky. Lapland offers some of the best chances to witness this magical occurrence, and there are many ways to experience it. You can book a Northern Lights tour, which can take you to secluded spots far from city lights. Alternatively, you can opt for a glass igloo concept or stay in a remote cabin, where you can enjoy the spectacular view in the warmth of your room.
2. Go Husky Sledding
Husky sledding is an exhilarating experience, and Lapland is the perfect place to try it. During the winter months, the huskies are trained to pull sleds, and you can hop on for a ride. Most operators provide a tour where you can learn about the huskies’ training, and some even offer the opportunity to drive the sled yourself.
3. Visit Santa Claus Village
One of the biggest draws for families with children is Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Finland. You can visit Santa at his office, post letters to him, and even participate in feeding the reindeer. The village also offers many other winter activities such as snowmobiling, ice-skating, and visiting a magical ice hotel.
4. Try Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is one of the traditional activities in Lapland, and it’s a great way to experience the serenity of the wilderness. You can fish for different species, such as perch, trout, and whitefish, and some operators also offer ice fishing trips combined with a visit to a traditional Lappish Kota tent, where you can warm yourself up with hot drinks and snacks.
5. Go Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a great outdoor activity that provides the perfect opportunity to explore Lapland’s snowy wilderness. It can be done on your own or as part of a guided tour, and it’s suitable for all fitness levels. Walking through the snow, you can spot wildlife like reindeer, arctic foxes, and hares.
6. Relax in a Sauna
The Finnish sauna culture is an essential part of the winter experience in Lapland. Almost every accommodation in Lapland comes equipped with a sauna, and it’s a great way to warm your body up after a day of outdoor activities. You can also visit a traditional Finnish smoke sauna, which is heated using birch wood and has a special aroma due to the wood burning process.
7. Take a Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride
A horse-drawn sleigh ride is a romantic and peaceful winter activity that lets you soak in the beautiful Lapland scenery. Trained horses pull you through snow-covered forests, and you can enjoy the clear fresh air, listen to the jingling of the bells, and watch for wild animals.
In conclusion, Lapland in winter offers a wide range of activities that cater to everyone’s interests and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of thrilling adventures or prefer quieter activities immersed in nature, this northernmost region of Finland has something to offer. It’s no wonder why Lapland is considered one of the best destinations for winter vacations in the world.