When winter comes to Finland, it brings something magical with it - as if the Scandinavian frosty spell moved straight to your life. Finland in winter is not only terribly low temperatures (calmly, you can stand!), But above all a whole lot of unexpected adventures. What does winter look like in Finland? Let's find out!
Attention! Remember that winter is not joking in Finland. Make sure you have warm clothes, a thermos with tea and a large supply of enthusiasm - this is the key to survival (and fun).
Finland in winter - what to expect?
Winter in Finland starts early, as a rule, the first snowfall begins in November, and the temperatures are low enough that the thermometers permanently settled below zero. True magic, however, begins when the sun almost completely disappears behind the horizon, and the polar night becomes a reality. The light of the moon, stars and snow - this is the moment when Finland becomes incredibly romantic (and at the same time terrifying!).
Remember that during the polar night you will not see the sun even for several weeks. But don't worry - Finnish coffee is strong, and the views reward the lack of light.
Aurora polar - holidays in heaven
One of the biggest advantages of Finland's winter is the northern lights . Yes, you have not heard - these colorful, spinning lights in the sky can be seen in Lapland from October to April. To have the best chance of seeing the aurora, it's best to go to the north of the country, e.g. to the town of Saariselkä or Rovaniemi. Tip: In the "My Aurora Forecast" application you will check the forecast of the aurora - and when you see it, you will understand why the Finns consider this phenomenon one of the most beautiful in the world.
The price of accommodation in special igloo with a glass roof, ideal for watching aurora, ranges from 250 to 800 euros per night (brrr ... not only cold but also expensive!). The address of the popular place is: Kakslautanen Arctic Resort, Kiilopäntie 9, 99830 Saariselkä.
Pro tip : Do you want to save? Rent a small hut nearby and organize your own aurora demonstration in the open air. A warm blanket, hot chocolate and sky full of dancing lights - it sounds like magic, right?
Rovaniemi - city of St. Santa
It would not be possible to write about Finland in winter without the memory of Saint. Mikołaj. Rovaniemi is an official place of residence of this nice older man. Magic village of St. Mikołaj is open all year round, but in winter it gains its greatest charm. You can meet elves there, visit Poczta St. Mikołaj and feel this unusual, festive atmosphere.
Admission to the village of St. Nicholas is free, but it is worth preparing around 35 euros for a commemorative photo with Mikołaj himself. Tip: Don't forget to write a letter! He will have a special seal from the North Pole.
Note : Meeting with Mikołaj is not only for children! Adults, prepare for a lot of emotions and return to your childhood.
Husky Safari - for brave and adrenaline lovers
Feel speed, wind in the hair and love of Husky dogs, rushing through the snowy forests of Lapland! Husky Safari is one of the most popular attractions in Finland. The price of the ride (2-3 hours) is between 150 and 300 euros per person.
Many operators offer their services around Rovaniemi and Inari. Example: Bearhill Husky, located at Joulumaantie 13, 96930 Rovaniemi. Tip: Make sure you have warm gloves -even the biggest emotions are not enough to warm your hands at -20 ° C.
Adrenaline block : If you are afraid of speed, don't worry! Husky is not only energy, but also an amazing feeling of closeness with nature. And after all, warm tea by the fire is waiting for you.
Experience the night in an ice hotel
Do you feel like accommodation in a hotel made entirely of ice? It sounds a bit crazy, but it is such experiences that make winter in Finland unforgettable. At the snowhotel in Kem, you can feel like a real arctic traveler, sleeping in a room carved in ice.
The price per night in such a hotel is about 400 euros per person. Address: Lumilinnankat 15, 94100 Kemi. Tip: It is worth considering spending one night there, and move the rest of your stay to a warm house.
Do you know that? : All rooms are rewritten daily! Ice carved by local artists makes every night its unique charm.
Sauna and walrus - Finnish therapy for soul and body
There is no winter in Finland without a visit to the sauna ! Finns are known for the love of the sauna - 5.5 million people live in the country and there are over 3 million saunas! The best are the ones on the lakes, where after a warming session you can jump into ice water. "This is the best way to health," every Fin (let's not deny it, it's not worth it).
The public sauna in Helsinki, such as Löyly (Hernesaaerenrant 4, 00150 Helsinki), costs about 20 euros per person. And if we are talking about walrus, go ahead - try! Nothing fresh mind like immersing in ice water.
Finnish wisdom : "Everyone is equal in the sauna" - remember that the sauna is not only a place of rest, but also integration. Do not restrict to talk to others, it can be a great way to get to know local stories!
Ski and snowboard - Levi and Ylläs
Finland offers many ski slopes . Levi and Ylläs are the two largest centers that will satisfy even the most demanding skiers and snowboarders. Levi offers 43 ski routes, and the ticket prices start from 40 euros per day.
Address of the Levi resort: Hissitie 8, 99130 Sirkka. Tip: Book the hotel early, because in the winter season it can be difficult to find accommodation in the area.
Tip for families : Ski resorts in Finland also offer many attractions for the youngest. Snow parks, mini-degrees and instructors specializing in working with children-everyone will find something for themselves!
Dinner at the ice restaurant
Do you want to survive dinner in a restaurant where everything, including plates, is made of ice? At snowcastle, you can try such specialties as fish soup served in an ice bowl (tasty, but a bit cold!). The price of a three -course dinner starts from 70 euros per person. Address: Lumilinnankat 15, 94100 Kemi.
Experimental experience : dinner in an ice restaurant is not only food, but also a full sensory experience. When your lips meet with a cold plate, you will really feel that you are at the end of the world!
Dish with a reindeer!
In Finland, you can't miss a reindeer meeting in winter. Slaving ride pulled through these nice animals is not only fun, but also the tradition of the Lapland region. The price of a ride is about 100 euros per hour. Place: Sáráhänka Reindeer Farm, address: Muotkatakka, 99870 Inari.
Magic moment : reindeers have been part of Lapland culture for centuries. While driving you will feel like a fairy tale hero - maybe you will even hear bells in the air? Don't forget to take a photo!
Finland in winter - what else?
If you have time, it is worth going on a trip to the ice fields to the Botnica Bay or visit the Museum alone in Inari to learn about the culture of the native Lapland population. Every day of winter in Finland is a new adventure - full of laughter, a thrill and chilling memories that will remain with you for a long time.
Finland in winter is an adventure that you will never forget. Every moment, every trip, every meeting with nature is something that surprises and touches. Are you ready to immerse yourself in this land of winter miracles?
