Saariselkä: Wilderness Dinner - Chef's Special Evening

Travelers seeking a taste of Lapland’s rugged beauty blended with local cuisine and the thrill of catching the Northern Lights will find the Saariselkä Wilderness Dinner a compelling choice. This three-hour experience, offered by Star Arctic Oy, combines a relaxed buffet meal with opportunities to spot auroras in an atmospheric wilderness setting. While it’s not a full-on adventure tour, it offers a charming glimpse into Sámi culture and the raw beauty of Lapland’s night sky.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the authentic three-course buffet features local delicacies like sautéed deer and smoked salmon—perfect for those wanting to indulge in genuine Lapland flavors. Second, the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights adds a magical touch—weather permitting, of course. Third, the wilderness walk in thermal clothing offers a peaceful moment amidst nature, building anticipation for the dinner and aurora viewing. The only consideration? It’s primarily a dining experience, so if you’re after a high-adrenaline excursion, this might not be your best fit.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate good food, authentic local culture, and the chance to witness Lapland’s natural wonders without dedicating an entire day to outdoor activities. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a cozy, memorable night out with a touch of adventure.

Contents show

Key Points

Authentic three-course buffet with local ingredients like smoked salmon and sautéed deer
Aurora watching opportunity in a wilderness setting, weather dependent
Cultural atmosphere with traditional Sami “laavu” and live fire
Comfortable transportation provided to and from the Wilderness Center
Casual, relaxed environment with modern wilderness restaurant setting
Flexible cancellation and booking options for peace of mind

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: An Evening in the Lapland Wilderness

The Saariselkä Wilderness Dinner is designed to blend fine local cuisine with the natural magic of the Arctic night. It begins with a convenient pickup at designated locations like the Holiday Club Saariselkä or Valo Ice Cuba Villas. From there, a driver whisks you to the Wilderness Center, a cozy hub that feels both rustic and modern. During the short transfer, you can settle into the experience and start to feel the anticipation building.

Once at the Wilderness Center, the first highlight is an easy walk into the surrounding wilderness, which, weather permitting, becomes your prime chance for Aurora spotting. The walk is short but can be chilly—star Arctic provides thermal clothing if needed—so dress warmly. This moment outside, surrounded by quiet snow-covered trees and possibly with the Northern Lights shimmering overhead, creates a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere.

After the walk, you’re welcomed into a warmly lit “laavu,” a traditional Sami shelter with a cozy fire. This setting instantly transports you to Lapland’s cultural roots and provides a warm, inviting space to settle in for your meal. The dinner itself takes place in a contemporary wilderness restaurant, which interestingly combines rustic charm with modern comforts, including a live fire inside that adds to the atmosphere.

Love the evening vibe? Here are more after-sunset activities we've covered in Saariselka

The Buffet Menu: A Taste of Lapland

The three-course buffet offers a thoughtful selection of local ingredients, emphasizing the flavors of Lapland. Starters include a variety of small entrees, allowing you to sample different tastes before the main course. The main features classic Scandinavian fare such as sautéed deer, smoked salmon, and mashed potatoes—a hearty, satisfying meal that underscores the region’s culinary traditions.

Desserts round out the experience, often featuring traditional Finnish sweets, although specific options aren’t listed in detail. Reviewers note that the buffet is replenished promptly, ensuring everyone gets to try their favorites without disappointment. It’s a flexible setup, suitable for different dietary preferences, though guests with multiple allergies or specific restrictions should clarify in advance, as the menu mainly centers on local fish and meat.

Aurora Watching and the Wilderness Walk

One of the main highlights is the chance to see the Northern Lights, weather permitting. The tour includes enough time outside to enjoy the night sky, with the guide or host providing insights into the aurora phenomena. Reviewers like Cindy and Alexandra praised not only the delicious meal but also the beautiful atmosphere created by the fire and the wilderness setting, making the aurora hunt feel intimate and special.

The walk in thermal clothing adds a tactile element—not just viewing the lights but actively experiencing the cold, starry wilderness. It’s a peaceful, contemplative experience that can be quite rewarding if the Northern Lights decide to put on a show.

Transportation and Practical Details

Transportation is straightforward and stress-free. The driver picks you up and drops you off at specified locations, with a vehicle bearing the Star Arctic logo. The journey itself is brief, allowing more time to enjoy the wilderness walk and dinner.

The experience lasts around three hours, with starting times varying based on availability—checking ahead is recommended. The tour is designed to be flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a “reserve now, pay later” option, making it accessible even if your plans change.

Guests are advised that thermal clothing is provided only for the walk; at the restaurant, you won’t need extra layers, as the interior is heated and comfortable.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Reviewers Love Most

Guests consistently praise the atmosphere—both the decor and the friendly staff. Cindy remarked that the “decor was super atmospheric,” and Alexandra highlighted the “beautiful atmosphere” and “lovely staff,” describing it as a very nice memory. The quality of the food is also a major highlight, with many noting that the buffet allowed them to try everything and that the dishes were deliciously prepared.

The experience is appreciated not just for the meal but for the authentic feeling of being in Lapland—from the Sami-style shelter to the cozy fire, it all contributes to a memorable evening.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Saariselka

Who Would Love This Experience?

This dinner tour is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed yet authentic way to experience Lapland’s culinary and natural wonders. It suits those who enjoy good food, cultural ambiance, and the possibility of catching the Northern Lights without committing to a full outdoor adventure. It’s also great for families or couples looking for an atmospheric evening that combines relaxation with a touch of adventure.

However, if you’re after a high-energy outdoor excursion or have strict dietary restrictions, you might want to explore other options. Still, for most, this offers a solid blend of comfort, culture, and natural beauty.

The Sum Up

The Saariselkä Wilderness Dinner by Star Arctic is a thoughtfully curated experience that combines tasty local cuisine with the magic of Lapland’s wilderness and sky. You’ll love the cozy Sami-style setting, the chance to see the aurora, and the quality of the buffet, which feels both hearty and authentic. It’s an ideal choice for travelers wanting a low-key, memorable night that captures the spirit of Lapland without the need for strenuous activity.

The experience provides excellent value for those seeking a genuine taste of Lapland’s food and scenery, especially given the included transportation and the chance to relax in comfort while surrounded by nature. It’s perfect if you want a balanced mix of culture, scenic beauty, and culinary delight.

If you’re in Saariselkä and craving something uniquely local yet relaxed, this dinner experience offers a wonderful way to spend an evening under the northern sky.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the dinner buffet suitable for vegetarians?
The buffet includes vegetarian options, but it mainly features local fish and meat. Guests with specific dietary restrictions should contact Star Arctic in advance to clarify their needs.

Do I need to bring my own thermal clothing?
No, thermal clothing is provided for the walk outside if needed, but at the restaurant itself, you won’t require extra layers.

Can I see the Northern Lights during this tour?
Weather permitting, there’s a good chance to spot the auroras during the outdoor walk, but sightings depend on clear skies and aurora activity.

How long does the tour last?
The experience typically runs for about three hours, including transportation, the wilderness walk, and dinner.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation to and from the Wilderness Center is included, with pickups at specified locations like the Holiday Club Saariselkä.

What should I wear for the outdoor part of the experience?
Dress warmly in layers—thermal clothing is provided, but you might want to wear warm boots, gloves, and a hat for extra comfort.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the package, so you might want to bring your own or purchase beverages separately.

Is this experience family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those who enjoy outdoor experiences, good food, and cultural atmospheres.

Can I cancel or reschedule easily?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The “reserve now, pay later” option also adds flexibility.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if the Saariselkä Wilderness Dinner matches your interests. It’s a memorable, authentic way to enjoy the Arctic night, savor local flavors, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights—all in a relaxed setting that emphasizes comfort and genuine cultural moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: