Imagine relaxing in a steaming Finnish sauna beside an icy Arctic lake, then dipping into freezing waters, all while chasing the elusive Northern Lights. That’s exactly what this tour from Rovaniemi offers—an authentic taste of Lapland’s winter magic wrapped in a well-balanced mix of adventure, culture, and comfort. With a high rating of 4.9 based on 88 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this experience both memorable and worthwhile.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to try ice swimming in a safe, guided setting—something many travelers consider a bucket-list experience. Second, the warm, traditional dinner served in a cozy wooden cottage, offering a genuine Finnish culinary touch. Third, the expert guides who are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and personalized approach. One potential drawback? Since Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, their visibility isn’t guaranteed, but the tour’s timing and location maximize your chances.
This experience is perfect for those looking to embrace Lapland’s authentic culture, enjoy a multisensory winter adventure, and make unforgettable memories—whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Arctic Finland.
Key Points
- Authentic Finnish sauna experience on an Arctic lake
- Ice swimming for the brave, with safety and guidance
- Traditional dinner of smoked salmon in a cozy wooden cottage
- Northern Lights viewing opportunity (seasonal and weather-dependent)
- Expert guides who enhance the experience with local insights
- Value for money considering the included activities, dinner, and round-trip transport
A Closer Look at What to Expect
Looking for more options in Lapland Finland? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting with the Sauna and Ice Swimming
The journey begins with a two-hour session in a traditional Finnish sauna, set in a stunning natural environment beside a pristine Arctic lake. You’ll be provided with towels and slippers, and the guide will explain how the sauna is designed to purify your body and relax your muscles. After a session of about 10-15 minutes, you’ll have the option to dive into the icy waters or roll around in the snow—an exhilarating experience that many find invigorating.
One review highlights this component, with Rúdi stating, “The activity was on a really high level. The guidance thought about everything, even the smallest details to make the whole trip unforgettable.” This suggests that the safety, comfort, and authentic nature of the ice swimming are well-maintained, making it accessible even for first-timers.
The Cozy Wooden Cottage Dinner
After the cold plunge, you’ll head to a rustic wooden cottage where a traditional Finnish dinner awaits. Expect smoked salmon, served around a crackling fire, which complements the wintery surroundings perfectly. Reviewers like Valeria describe the dinner as “wonderful and relaxing,” praising the tastefulness of Finnish cuisine and the cozy atmosphere.
The dinner isn’t just about the food—it’s about the experience of sitting in a warm, welcoming space after the icy adventure, sharing stories, and soaking in the peaceful woodland environment. Many guests comment on the generous portions and the friendly service from guides and staff, which adds to the overall value.
Northern Lights – The Natural Wonder
The tour’s evening departure is timed to coincide with the best Northern Lights season, from late October to mid-March. Travelers are encouraged to keep their fingers crossed for the skies to clear and the lights to dance overhead. While the aurora is a natural phenomenon, reviews show that luck often favors guests—some even get to witness vibrant displays of blue, green, violet, and red.
Guide Tania is praised for her extra effort in helping guests catch a glimpse of the auroras, sometimes stopping the vehicle along the route for a better view. As Essra put it, “We were super lucky and saw the northern lights on the way home,” emphasizing that good timing and clear skies are key.
More Great Tours NearbyAdditional Details and Logistics
This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t need to worry about transportation. The guides are fluent in English and provide plenty of explanations about Finnish traditions, adding educational value to your adventure.
Clothing-wise, bring weather-appropriate gear and your own bathing suit for the ice swimming. The tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with specific health concerns such as back or heart problems, which is worth considering if traveling with family or with health issues.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
At $182 per person, this experience packs a lot into a single evening. The inclusion of hotel transfers, a guided sauna and ice swimming, a traditional dinner, and non-alcoholic beverages makes it a comprehensive package. When you factor in the authenticity of the activities, the professional guidance, and the chance to see the Northern Lights, the price feels reasonable for the unique memories you’ll create.
Many reviews highlight the high standard of organization and friendly guides, like Pedro, Tania, and Alexia, who are praised for their hospitality and humor—important factors that turn a good tour into a great experience.
The Experience’s Highlights
- Guided safety and instruction for ice swimming, making it accessible even for beginners
- Authentic Finnish ambiance in the cozy cottage, with good-quality, traditional food
- Flexible timing during peak aurora season, increasing your chances of a sighting
- Lively, knowledgeable guides who go beyond just logistics to make the trip memorable
- Contribution to local culture through traditional practices and storytelling
Who Would Love This Tour?
This tour is ideal for adventurers willing to brave the cold and try something truly different. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting an authentic, memorable Arctic experience. Nature lovers and photography enthusiasts will especially enjoy the chance to capture the Northern Lights and the crystalline winter landscapes.
If you’re after a relaxing yet invigorating night out that combines culture, adventure, and comfort, this experience should definitely be on your list. However, those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or very young children might want to consider other options, as the activities are physically demanding and not suitable for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides pickup and drop-off from hotels, making it convenient to start and end your evening without extra hassle.
What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing and your own bathing suit are recommended for the sauna and ice swimming parts of the experience.
Can I see the Northern Lights on this tour?
While the tour is scheduled during peak aurora season and guides will assist in spotting the lights, their appearance depends on weather and sky conditions, so sightings are not guaranteed.
Is this activity suitable for children?
No, children under 10 years old are not allowed due to the physical nature and safety considerations of ice swimming and cold exposure.
What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel transfers, guide, sauna experience, ice swimming, towels and slippers, dinner with smoked salmon, and non-alcoholic beverages.
How long does the tour last?
Expect about 2 hours for the sauna and ice swimming, plus the time for dinner and possibly aurora chasing—roughly an evening-long experience.
Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak Aurora season, and you can reserve with the flexibility of paying later.
Final Thoughts
This Rovaniemi Sauna & Ice Swimming tour offers a genuine taste of Lapland’s winter traditions, combining the thrill of Arctic swimming, the warmth of Finnish hospitality, and the magical possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights. It’s a well-organized, highly praised experience that balances adventure with comfort, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking an immersive Arctic night.
Designed for those open to chilly challenges and cultural discovery, this tour delivers both adrenaline and relaxation wrapped into a single evening. From the guides’ expert insights to the delicious local cuisine, every element works together to create a memorable, authentic outing—sure to be one of the highlights of your Finnish adventure.
Whether you’re chasing the elusive auroras or simply want to enjoy a traditional Finnish moment, this experience offers a meaningful way to connect with Lapland’s winter soul.
You can check availability for your dates here: