Seeking an authentic Lappish adventure? This enchanting tour offers an immersive experience in the stunning wilderness. Guests can dive into invigorating ice swimming, relax in a traditional wood-burning sauna, and savor a delicious dinner featuring freshly-smoked salmon. As the day winds down, they’ll gather by the cozy fire, sipping hot beverages and keeping an eye out for the captivating Northern Lights. With transport and an English-speaking guide, this 5.0-star rated experience promises an unforgettable evening in the heart of Lapland.
Key Points
- Immersive Lappish cultural experience with activities like ice swimming, wood-fired sauna, fireside relaxation, and a dinner featuring smoked salmon.
- Door-to-door transport from Rovaniemi accommodations and potential for Northern Lights viewing during late October to mid-March.
- Private tour with a maximum of 14 travelers and an English-speaking guide who provides cultural insights.
- Opportunity for an exhilarating dip in an icy arctic lake, with participants provided with thick winter gear.
- Traditional wood-burning sauna experience lasting 10-15 minutes, with cultural significance explained by the guide.
Overview of the Experience
The Traditional Lappish Evening in the Wilderness experience takes travelers on a journey to the heart of Finnish culture.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars by 26 reviewers, this private tour offers a 100% recommended immersion into traditional Lappish activities.
Guests can look forward to ice swimming in an arctic lake, a wood-fired sauna, relaxation by the fire, and a delicious dinner featuring smoked salmon.
With convenient door-to-door transport and the possibility of Northern Lights spotting, this intimate experience provides an unforgettable taste of Lapland.
The tour isn’t suitable for certain travelers, so guests should review the details carefully before booking.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Rovaniemi
Activities Included
An array of authentic Lappish activities awaits guests on this immersive experience.
Brave the chilly waters of an arctic lake for an invigorating ice swim, then warm up in a traditional wood-burning sauna.
Relax by the fire with a hot beverage, taking in the serene surroundings.
Savor a dinner featuring freshly-smoked salmon, a regional delicacy.
For those visiting during the Northern Lights season, there’s a chance to witness the mesmerizing natural spectacle (on 5pm departures from late October to mid-March).
This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Lappish culture and tradition.
Tour Logistics
Door-to-door transport from Rovaniemi accommodations ensures a hassle-free start to the experience.
The private tour promises an intimate setting, with a maximum of 14 travelers. Round-trip transport from centrally located hotels and Santa Claus Village makes getting to and from the tour easy.
The English-speaking guide provides insight into Finnish culture throughout the evening.
This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
Children under 10 years old aren’t accepted. Dietary requirements should be advised at the time of booking confirmation.
What to Expect
Although the tour is not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, the English-speaking guide provides valuable insight into Finnish culture throughout the evening. Guests can expect:
Activity | Description |
---|---|
Ice Swimming | Experience the thrill of swimming in an arctic lake |
Sauna | Relax in a traditional wood-burning sauna |
Fireside | Enjoy warm drinks and camaraderie by the fire |
Dinner | Savor a freshly-prepared meal featuring smoked salmon |
Please note that children under 10 years are not accepted on this tour. Dietary requirements should be advised at the time of booking.
Ice Swimming in an Arctic Lake
One of the highlights of the traditional Lappish evening experience is the opportunity to take an exhilarating dip in the chilly waters of an arctic lake.
Participants will be outfitted with thick winter gear, including a warm jumpsuit, before venturing out onto the frozen lake.
After cutting a hole in the ice, adventurers will take turns plunging into the icy water, experiencing the invigorating rush of the cold.
The guide will be on hand to assist and ensure everyone’s safety.
This unique activity offers a chance to truly take in the Lappish winter wonderland.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Rovaniemi
Traditional Wood-Burning Sauna Experience
After the bracing ice swim, guests warm up in the traditional wood-burning sauna nestled in the wilderness. The sauna experience includes:
Sauna Details | |
---|---|
Temperature | 80-100°C |
Duration | 10-15 minutes |
Tradition | Dating back centuries in Finland |
Sitting in the soothing, dry heat, guests listen to the guide explain the cultural significance of the sauna. They learn how this ritual has long been a central part of Finnish life, providing physical and mental rejuvenation. The sauna’s tranquil atmosphere allows travelers to fully enjoy this authentic Lappish experience.
Freshly-Prepared Dinner Featuring Smoked Salmon
After the revitalizing sauna experience, guests are served a freshly-prepared dinner featuring smoked salmon.
The hearty meal includes:
- Generous portions of savory smoked salmon, sourced locally from the pristine waters of the Arctic region.
- Creamy mashed potatoes, seasoned with fragrant herbs and butter.
- A vibrant salad of crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette.
The smoky, rich flavor of the salmon pairs perfectly with the comforting sides, creating a truly satisfying and authentic Lappish dining experience.
Guests savor the meal while basking in the warm glow of the fire, fully immersed in the traditions of the Finnish wilderness.
Opportunity to See Northern Lights
As the tour departs at 5pm, guests have the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis.
The Aurora Borealis is caused by the collision of charged particles from the sun with gases in the Earth’s atmosphere. This dazzling display of colorful lights can be seen in the night sky, typically during the end of October through mid-March in Rovaniemi, Finland.
While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the tour’s later departure time maximizes the chances of catching this breathtaking natural wonder during the experience.
Ask Away
How Can I Prepare for the Ice Swimming Experience?
To prepare for ice swimming, one should bring warm, waterproof clothing, towels, and slippers. It’s also wise to hydrate well and consult a doctor if concerned about health conditions. Gradually acclimatize to the cold water to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
What Should I Bring to the Traditional Wood-Burning Sauna?
Bring a towel, sandals, and a swimsuit to the traditional wood-burning sauna. Stay hydrated and listen to the guide’s instructions. Embrace the Finnish sauna experience and enjoy the relaxation afterwards by the fire.
Is the Freshly-Prepared Dinner Suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans?
The dinner menu doesn’t seem to cater to vegetarians or vegans. It features smoked salmon, so it’s likely not suitable for those dietary needs. Guests with special dietary requirements should advise the tour operator when booking.
What Are the Chances of Seeing the Northern Lights?
The chances of seeing the Northern Lights are good on the 5pm departure during the end of October to mid-March, though it’s not guaranteed as they’re a natural phenomenon. The tour offers this opportunity, but it can’t be promised.
Can I Extend My Stay in Rovaniemi After the Tour?
Yes, you can extend your stay in Rovaniemi after the tour. The tour provider offers round-trip transport from centrally located hotels, so you’re free to continue exploring Rovaniemi on your own after the experience ends.
Final Words
This immersive Lappish tour offers a memorable and authentic wilderness experience. Guests can enjoy invigorating ice swimming, a soothing sauna, and a delicious dinner featuring smoked salmon, all while taking in the stunning Lappish landscape and perhaps even witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights. The tour’s transportation and English-speaking guide ensure a seamless and unforgettable adventure.
More Skiing Experiences in Rovaniemi
More Hiking & Trekking Tours in Rovaniemi
- Hike to Frozen Waterfalls of Korouoma Including BBQ Lunch from Rovaniemi
- Ski Trek to the Wilderness – Extra Small group
- Rovaniemi: Winter Wonderland Vikaköngäs Hiking Tour & BBQ
- Arctic Wilderness Hike with Fire-making
- Rovaniemi: Guided tour in Arctic Circle Trekking area
- From Rovaniemi: Frozen Wonderland Riisitunturi Winter Hike
More Tour Reviews in Rovaniemi
- Half-Day Experience in Local reindeer farm in Lapland
- 1 Day Pass Lapland Winter Park in Rovaniemi
- Snowmobiling Quick Spin – 2 h snowmobile experience in Rovaniemi
- Lapland Reindeer Safari from Rovaniemi
- Full Day Snowmobile Safari into the Lappish Wilderness in Rovaniemi
- Frozen Waterfalls in Korouoma Canyon adventure
Still browsing? Here are more Rovaniemi experiences we've covered recently
- Half-Day Experience in Local reindeer farm in Lapland
- 1 Day Pass Lapland Winter Park in Rovaniemi
- Snowmobiling Quick Spin – 2 h snowmobile experience in Rovaniemi
- Lapland Reindeer Safari from Rovaniemi
- Full Day Snowmobile Safari into the Lappish Wilderness in Rovaniemi
- Frozen Waterfalls in Korouoma Canyon adventure
- Korouoma Canyon Snowshoe Trip
- Ice Fishing and Snowmobile Safari Combo in Lapland
- Small-Group Husky Sledding on Wheels in Rovaniemi in the fall
- Rovaniemi Autumn Husky Safari & BBQ 610 km SelfDrive
- 8-10km Husky Ride in the Taiga Forest and visiting the Kennel
- Snowmobile Tours in Rovaniemi Lapland