Levi: Cross-Country Skiing Tour for Beginners

Levi: Cross-Country Skiing Tour for Beginners offers a gentle introduction to a beloved Finnish winter tradition. Whether you’re new to skiing or just want to enjoy Lapland’s peaceful scenery, this tour combines easy activity with stunning vistas and authentic Arctic atmosphere. From learning the basics to gliding across frozen lakes, it’s designed to be accessible and memorable.

Three things we love about this experience are the calming views of Lake Immeljärvi, the friendly guidance from knowledgeable local instructors, and the cozy pause for hot berry juice and a snack amid snow-draped trees. The only potential consideration is the group size, which might be larger than some prefer, but it doesn’t seem to detract from the warmth of the experience.

This tour suits beginners, families with older kids (over 8 years), and anyone curious to try a Finnish winter staple in a relaxed setting. If you’re after an authentic, scenic, and straightforward winter activity, this is a solid choice.

Contents show

Key Points

Beginner-Friendly: No prior experience needed; suitable for first-timers and families
Scenic Route: Glide along Lake Immeljärvi with breathtaking winter views
Local Guides: Knowledgeable, enthusiastic guides provide clear instructions and insight
Authentic Experience: Learn a Finnish winter tradition in a peaceful Arctic setting
Comfort Break: Warm up with hot berry juice and a snack in nature
Value for Money: Includes ski equipment, guidance, snack, and hot drink for $127

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Levi’s Cross-Country Skiing Tour: A Complete Look

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Kittila

An Introduction to Finnish Winter Tradition

This beginner-friendly tour invites you to try cross-country skiing, a sport deeply rooted in Finnish culture and essential for survival and transport in Lapland long before snowmobiles became popular. Guided by local experts, you’ll start with a simple introduction to the basics—how to balance, glide, and maneuver on skis—making it accessible even for first-timers. The guides are friendly and supportive, ensuring everyone feels comfortable on their skis before heading out onto the peaceful trails.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins at the centrally located Levi Tourist Info, right in front of the Visit Levi office. From there, your guide will lead you to the starting point, where your cross-country ski gear—skis, poles, and shoes—are already waiting. The group size can be larger, as one reviewer noted, but guides like Melanie praised the “good explanations” and “helpfulness” that make the experience smooth and enjoyable.

The route follows the scenic frozen Lake Immeljärvi, an area once considered sacred by the Sámi people. Expect calm, open views of the lake’s icy surface, framed by frosted forests and the distant silhouette of Levi’s fells. The scenery is a highlight and a perfect backdrop for beginners to feel both challenged and relaxed.

Learning the Basics and Gliding Across Lake Immeljärvi

The tour’s core is the instruction—your guide will teach you how to control your skis, with patience and clear tips. We loved how this part set a friendly tone; no prior experience is necessary, and the focus is on having fun and building confidence. One review shared, “Nicely offered by the instructor,” emphasizing how guides make the learning process enjoyable.

Once comfortable, you’ll set off across the lake’s flat, frozen surface. The expansive gliding space provides a sense of freedom and connection with nature. As you move, you’ll notice the quietness of the Arctic winter, broken only by the soft scrape of skis and the occasional call of a bird.

More Great Tours Nearby

A Break in Nature’s Quietude

Midway, the group pauses for a warm-up and snack. You’ll sip hot berry juice and nibble on a light snack, surrounded by snow-laden trees and tranquil snow-covered landscapes. This rest offers a chance to take in the scenery, chat with your guide, or simply enjoy the peaceful silence. One reviewer mentioned that the “hot juice and snack in the snow” was a memorable highlight, adding a cozy touch to the outdoor adventure.

There's plenty more to explore in Kittila

Duration, Group Size, and Overall Atmosphere

The entire experience lasts about two hours, making it a manageable half-day activity. While some reviews note that the group size can be large—potentially affecting the feeling of intimacy—the guides’ professionalism helps keep everyone engaged and supported.

Equipment and Inclusions

Your fee of $127 covers everything you need: skis, poles, shoes, a guiding service, and your snack and hot drink. This all-in-one package simplifies planning, letting you focus on enjoying your time on the snow. Since the equipment is provided, there’s no need to worry about gear rental or bringing your own.

Accessibility and Suitability

This tour is designed for those without prior skiing experience. However, it’s not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or individuals with heart problems, per the tour provider’s guidelines. The focus on beginner comfort and safety makes it ideal for curious adults and families with older children interested in trying something new.

Practical Tips for Participants

Wear weather-appropriate clothing—layers are recommended since outdoor activity can get chilly. The tour starts and ends at the same point, simplifying logistics. Booking is flexible with a “pay later” option, and cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance.

Real Experiences and Insights from Reviewers

One traveler noted that the activity was “more difficult than thought,” highlighting that beginners shouldn’t expect a completely flat ride—though the route remains accessible. Another reviewer appreciated the “enthusiastic guide” who provided clear, helpful explanations, making the activity more engaging and less intimidating.

Despite the group size concern, most reviews praise the overall friendliness and professionalism of the guides. The views of Lake Immeljärvi are consistently described as stunning, making this an ideal activity for those wanting to combine gentle exercise with iconic Finnish scenery.

Is This Tour Worth It?

For $127, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to cross-country skiing, including equipment, expert guidance, and a chance to experience Lapland’s winter tranquility firsthand. It’s particularly good for people who want a safe, low-intensity activity that emphasizes scenic beauty and cultural authenticity.

The hot drink and snack break add a warm, restorative element, especially after some initial effort on skis—perfect for those who enjoy cozy moments outdoors.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re a beginner, traveling with family members over 8 years old, or seeking a relaxed way to explore Levi’s winter landscape. It also suits travelers looking for an activity that combines physical movement with cultural insights and stunning scenery—all at a gentle pace.

If you’re after a more adrenaline-fueled adventure, snowmobiling or husky sledding might be better suited. But if your priority is scenic calm, learning a new skill, and experiencing Lapland’s quiet beauty, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

Levi’s Cross-Country Skiing Tour for Beginners offers a true taste of Finnish winter life, wrapped in a calm, scenic package. Guides focus on making everyone comfortable, creating a friendly environment for novices. The stunning views of Lake Immeljärvi and the snow-draped forests stand out as major highlights, helping you feel connected to the Arctic’s peaceful rhythm.

While group sizes can vary, the overall experience remains authentic and heartfelt—perfect for those who love nature, want to try something new, or simply enjoy moments of tranquility in a winter landscape. The inclusion of gear, guidance, and cozy breaks makes it a good value, especially for travelers keen to savor Lapland’s outdoor beauty without high-intensity activity.

In summary, this tour is an excellent choice for anyone wanting a gentle, scenic, and culturally meaningful introduction to cross-country skiing in one of Europe’s most stunning winter destinations.

FAQs

Is prior skiing experience required? No, this tour is designed for beginners and no prior experience is needed.

What should I wear? Dress in weather-appropriate clothing, ideally in layers, to stay comfortable in the cold.

How long does the tour last? The activity takes about 2 hours from start to finish.

Are children allowed? Not under 8 years old; this tour is best suited for older children and adults.

Is the tour family-friendly? Yes, particularly for families with children over 8 who can handle outdoor winter activity comfortably.

What’s included in the price? Cross-country ski equipment, guiding, a snack, and a hot drink are included.

Can I book with flexible payment? Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, with cancellation possible up to 24 hours before.

Where does the tour start and end? The tour begins and concludes at the front of Levi Tourist Info, Myllyjoentie 2, Sirkka.

Will I see the Northern Lights? This tour focuses on skiing and scenery; Northern Lights sightings are not part of this experience.

Is it suitable for pregnant women or those with heart problems? No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or individuals with heart issues.

In the end, Levi’s cross-country skiing tour offers a peaceful, scenic, and accessible way to embrace Finnish winter traditions. Whether you’re after a gentle adventure, stunning views, or a cultural taste, it’s a wonderful addition to your Lapland itinerary.