Imagine a place steeped in mysticism, wilderness, snow covered forests and beautiful frozen lakes.
Up in the north of Finland, where the sun does not rise for some weeks during winter, the days are blue. Sometimes you can catch a glimpse of the sun, far away in the distance, but it’s difficult to recognize whether it’s dawn or dusk.
With winter temperatures ranging from a comfortable zero to a freezing -35celsius, Lapland may sound like an extreme travel destination. But don’t be suspicious; if you wear warm, layered winter clothes you can definitely take the cold and enjoy winter activities in the beautiful white landscapes of the Arctic Circle.
Head out to the frozen lakes for some ice fishing, cross-country skiing or skating. When driving a snowmobile you can enter terrain that is inaccessible in the summer and dash across the frozen, snow covered lakes with a speed of 130km / hour. (Just don’t forget to wear a helmet!)
Hike in the snow to the top of a fell to enjoy the silence unlike anywhere else on earth. The only thing you will hear is the snow crunching under your winter boots. The breathtaking views will be worth every step taken. If you are lucky, you might spot wild reindeer or elk.
After a long day outside, enter the traditional Finnish (smoke) sauna and enjoy the peace and quiet while your muscles relax in the heat. If you have the courage, swim in an ice hole of a frozen lake, and once back on dry land, notice how your body starts to warm up as the blood circulation kicks in.
On cold nights with clear skies, remember to keep a watch for Aurora Borealis – nature’s spectacular show, which you can only see in the North. It is a view you will never forget, I promise.
How to get to Lapland from Helsinki?
By (night) train: Travel to Kemi, Rovaniemi, Kolari or Kemijärvi .
By airplane: from Helsinki to Kemi, Rovaniemi, Kittilä, Enontekiö or Ivalo.
TRAVEL BUNGLE 