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Skiing & snowboarding in Lapland, Finland

Guide Lapland Skiing In Lapland

Lapland is a place that instantly evokes the idea of a winter wonderland. Lapland is in a region of Finland and actually only covers just under a third of the country and offers a skiing or snowboarding experience quite unlike any other. 

With an average of 200 days of fresh snowfall each year between November and May, Finland ski holidays have some of the best snow-sure resorts due to their location in the Arctic Circle.

What is skiing in Lapland like:

You can gently cruise down the slope whilst taking in the billion stars above and, if you’re lucky, the most amazing swirls of greens and purples of the Northern Lights sweeping across the sky.

Due to the location of Lapland, during the winter months, sunlight only reaches the area for a few hours each day - a unique way to live for a week, but don’t worry - all the resorts here have plenty of floodlit runs so you can still enjoy a full day's skiing.

Not many ski resorts can offer such a connection with the local wildlife, meaning Lapland showcases nature at its finest and all part of the downhill tour. 

There is something very unique about saying you are about to go and ski or snowboard in the Arctic Circle, it almost doesn’t sound possible, but luckily in Lapland you will find well groomed slopes catered for all ski abilities.

Where to ski in Lapland, Finland:

There are so many reasons why you should book your next skiing or snowboarding adventure to Lapland. Inghams offers 3 great resorts for you to choose from when booking your Lapland ski holiday - all the resorts are welcoming places, with plenty of bars, restaurants and cafes as well as other amenities, all with their own individual feel. 

Lapland Levi Ski 2

Levi

On-piste: 

  • 47 runs, half open (floodlit) December to February for excellent night time skiing
  • There is a ‘Kids land’ with ski lift, toboggan slope and daily games
  • A vast terrain for cross-country skiing with 230km of trails
  • For snowboarders, there is "snowboard alley" and a snow-park
  • Well equipped with snow cannons to ensure good skiing throughout the season
  • Festive periods and half-term offers après skiing with live bands

Off-piste:

  • ‘Kids Land’ also offers a play hut and you take marshmallows & sausages to roast on the firepit in the 'kota' (picnic hut).
  • Stunning frozen lakes
  • Samiland Exhibition which explores the culture of the indigenous Sami people
  • Resort offers minigolf, bowling, cinema and waterworld
Levi From £480pp
Yllas Finland Skiing.Jpg

Yllas

On-piste:

  • 60 runs, 20-30 of which are covered by snow cannons for good December to February coverage
  • 30 floodlit runs so you can ski during Lapland's peak winter time
  • Great for beginners, with small ski schools
  • Popular with snowboarders due to having 2 snowparks, including jumps and a super-pipe
  • With 330km of trails, this is a great destination for cross-country skiing

Off-piste:

  • Pallas-Yllästunturi National Park
  • Authentic food across the ski cafes (popular to walk or winter cycle to these)
  • Lakeside saunas and ice-swimming are popular here
  • Great for families as there is a bowling complex
  • Akaslompolo is a traditional Arctic village overlooking a stunning frozen lake
Ylläs From £480pp
LAPLAND NORTH WINTER SAARISELKÄ CROSSCOUNTRY SKIING

Saariselka

On-piste:

  • The smaller of all 3 resorts for skiing, however the quietest so there aren’t queues for the ski lifts or too many other people around you on the slopes
  • 23 runs in total, just under half of which are floodlit
  • The most popular destination for cross-country skiing, with the largest and well designed terrains
  • There is 1 snowpark for those who like to test their snowboarding skills

Off-piste:

  • Popular panorama theatre is a planetarium dedicated the Northern Lights
  • Walk 10-20 mins from the village into the National Park to the "Aurora Hut" which overlooks the village. From here you can search for the Northern Lights and also bring your own marshmallows to roast over one of the 3 open fireplaces
  • An area famous for gold - visit the Tankavaara Gold Museum to discover more
Saariselkä From £480pp

There's more than just skiing in Lapland:

Most ski resorts across the world often have additional activities you can enjoy throughout your stay, from ice skating to snowshoeing. Lapland also ensures there are plenty of these extra activities to also enjoy, however they aren’t your everyday winter related activities you would expect to find.

Experience an exhilarating ride through the breath-taking arctic scenery, changing from deep pine forests, fells, moorland, to the wide open expanses of frozen lakes and rivers.

You will be kitted out in some serious winter gear, including complete thermal suits and boots, thick gloves and insulated helmets. With the surprisingly easy to drive snowmobiles you will be on your trip in no time. Pausing for a break halfway through to really take in the snowy wilderness that is around you.

Choosing from daytime and evening safaris, there is a snowmobile safari for everyone to enjoy.

Snowmobile Safari

Head on an exhilarating adventure through Lappish nature on a snowmobile safari. The incredible scenery through the snow-covered forests, frozen fells and arctic lakes will take your breath away.

Duration: 2 hours (from resort)

  • All drivers must be 18 years+ and bring a full, valid photographic driver's licence with them to the excursion
  • Children must be aged 11 years or above and at least 140cm tall to ride as a passenger on a snowmobile; they must be able to touch the footrest when sitting on the snowmobile. Children under this height or aged 4- 10 years will be towed in a sled or pod behind the guide. It is not possible for infants (aged 0-3 years) to take part in this excursion.
  • Single riders who have purchased a sharing snowmobile may need to upgrade locally to a single driving snowmobile if a sharing snowmobile is not available.

A safari under the stars is an experience, and with a bit of luck, you may be able to spot nature's best show on earth, the Northern Lights. During the safari, you will be guided through the snow-covered forests to the best spot to catch this natural phenomenon. 

Duration: 2 hours (from resort)

  • All drivers must be 18 years+ and bring a full, valid photographic driver's licence with them to the excursion.
  • Children must be aged 11 years or above and at least 140cm tall to ride as a passenger on a snowmobile; they must be able to touch the footrest when sitting on the snowmobile.
  • It is not possible for children under 11 years to take part in this excursion. 
  • Single riders who have purchased a sharing snowmobile may need to upgrade locally to a single driving snowmobile if a sharing snowmobile is not available.
Snowmobiles

Is spotting the Northern Lights high on your bucket list? Why not book an overnight stay in a magical glass igloo. These unique igloos offer an unparalleled view of the starry night sky, and if you're lucky, the mesmerising Northern Lights. Fall asleep under a blanket of stars, surrounded by the enchanting snow-covered forests, and wake up to breathtaking views of the Lappish landscape. Don’t worry about trying to stay awake into the early hours, a wake-up call is provided when the light display is overhead to ensure you don’t miss a moment. 

Duration: Overnight experience

  • Overnight stay in a thermal glass igloo on bed and breakfast - breakfast in the Utsu Restaurant
  • Optional half board upgrade - enjoy a delicious 3-course dinner at the Utsu Restaurant, where the menu features Scandinavian dishes made with seasonal, local Arctic ingredients. Add at checkout. 
  • Transfers to and from your accommodation are included
  • Please inform us of any special dietary requirements at the time of booking
Northern Light Stays

A quintessential part of your Lapland visit is to experience is a reindeer sleigh ride. Visit an authentic reindeer farm and learn all about the reindeer. You will then be taken on a serene sleigh ride through snowy forests, guided by a Sami guide and their reindeer. The visit includes a farm visit where you can learn about the reindeer. 

Duration: 1.5 hours at farm

Reindeer Rides

Feel the thrill of adventure as you head on a husky sleigh ride through the enchanting Lappish landscape. Rush past stunning arctic landscape, whether it's glistening snow covered forests, expansive tundras as far as the eye can see or over frozen lakes, this is an adventure not to be missed. For this safari, you will drive the sleigh. 

Duration: 3 hours at farm

  • Children younger than 4 can only take part in the 2km husky safari. Guests must be 18+ and in good physical fitness to drive the husky sled. 
Husky Rides

Discover the magic of Lapland’s snowy landscapes on a gentle guided snowshoe safari. Wander through peaceful, snow-covered forests and glistening fells, surrounded by the sparkle of winter’s beauty.

Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through this serene Arctic wonderland, sharing stories of Lapland’s rich traditions, cultural history, and the fascinating local wildlife. It’s a wonderful way to experience the true charm of Lapland’s winter wilderness.

Duration: 2 hours

  • Available for children aged 7+
Ice Activities

Hear the snow crunch beneath your feet as you venture into the snowy Arctic wilderness beneath a sky twinkling with countless stars. Guided through frozen fells and sparkling, snow-draped forests, you’ll head to the best spots where, with a little luck, you may catch a glimpse of the enchanting Northern Lights dancing across the night sky.

Along the way, you’ll pause to warm up and listen as your guide shares fascinating stories of Lapland’s rich traditions and the magical myths surrounding the Northern Lights, adding a little extra sparkle to this unforgettable Arctic adventure.

Duration: 2 hours

  • Available for children aged 7 years+
Ice Activities

Speed across the specially designed ice track, surrounded by the stunning snow-covered landscapes of Levi. Whether you're a seasoned driver or a first-timer, ice karting offers an adrenaline-pumping challenge as you drift and race on the icy surface. Equipped with high-performance karts kitted out with studded tires and all the necessary safety gear, you'll race around the track feeling the adrenaline of winning the race.

Duration: 1-1.5 hours at site ( 2 x driving sessions)

  • Spectators must accompany a driver, but there is no charge to join
  • Drivers must be over 145cm tall and aged 12+ to pre-book the Ice Karting excursion
Ice Activities

Experience the magic of Lapland with a peaceful horse-drawn sleigh ride through Levi’s enchanting snow-covered forest. Snuggle up in a spacious sleigh for six as you glide along quiet, winding trails beneath the starry Arctic sky. With a bit of luck, you may even witness the mesmerising Northern Lights dancing overhead. After your ride, unwind by a crackling open fire in a traditional kammi hut, where warm berry juice and homemade biscuits await. A truly unforgettable way to embrace the stillness and beauty of the far north. 

Duration: 1 hour at farm, 15-20 minute sleigh ride

Horse Rides

Discover the beauty of Lapland on a peaceful horseback trek with calm and dependable Finn horses. Both beginner and intermediate options are available, with a short introduction provided to help first-time riders feel comfortable, and a slightly more adventurous route for those with riding experience. 

Ride through snow-laden forests and take in the serene Arctic scenery on this unforgettable journey—an ideal way to experience Lapland from a unique and tranquil perspective. 

Duration: 2.5 hours (from resort), 1.5 hours riding 

  • The beginner's group is for those who have never ridden a horse or have a small amount of riding experience
  • The advanced group is for confident, experienced riders, and children aged 7-12 years must have a good level of horse riding experience to take part
  • Beginner and advanced horse-riding sessions take place at different times. Guests of mixed abilities who wish to ride together should book the beginner excursion
  • All children must be accompanied by a participating adult when taking part in the excursion
Horse Rides

Embark on a truly magical Arctic adventure with an evening husky safari through Levi’s snowy wilderness. Sit back and relax in a cosy sled as a skilled guide leads a team of enthusiastic huskies along a scenic 10km trail under the starlit sky. With a bit of luck, the Northern Lights may appear overhead, casting their spell across the night sky — a breathtaking sight you’ll never forget.

Duration: 1.5 hours at farm

  • Guests must be 18+ and in good physical fitness to drive the husky sled
  • Children must be aged 7 years+ to take part in this activity
Husky Rides

Snowmobiles are one of the best ways of getting around Finland in the winter, and you’ll have the chance to experience driving through the vast Finnish forests and fells on an exhilarating snowmobile safari. You will be instructed on how to drive a snowmobile before embarking on an adventure of a lifetime through the pristine arctic landscape. Children will be in a sleigh or pod behind the guide, while the adults can either share or drive solo. 

Duration: 2-2.5 hours (from Äkäslompolo)

  • All drivers must be 18yrs+ and bring a full, valid photographic driver's licence with them to the excursion.
  • Children must be aged 11 years or above and at least 140cm tall to ride as a passenger on a snowmobile, they must be able to touch the footrest when sat on the snowmobile. Children under this height or aged 4-10 years will be towed in a sled or pod behind the guide. It is not possible for infants (aged 0-3 years) to take part in this excursion.
  • Single riders who have purchased a sharing snowmobile may need to upgrade locally to a single-driving snowmobile, if a shared snowmobile is not available.
Snowmobiles

Hunt for the magical Northern Lights on a thrilling snowmobile safari under the stars. The beautiful natural phenomenon is only visible on dark, clear nights – during the safari a guide will take you on an adventure to the best spot in Yllas to potentially catch a glimpse of them. You will stop to warm up with a drink beside an open fire, and listen to the guide telling ancient stories and beliefs of the Northern Lights before continuing on the hunt for the best show on earth. 

Duration: 2-2.5 hours (from Äkäslompolo)

  • All drivers must be 18 years+ and bring a full, valid photographic driver's licence with them to the excursion.
  • Children must be aged 11 years or above and at least 140cm tall to ride as a passenger on a snowmobile; they must be able to touch the footrest when sitting on the snowmobile.
  • It is not possible for children under 11 years to take part in this excursion. 
  • Single riders who have purchased a sharing snowmobile may need to upgrade locally to a single driving snowmobile if a sharing snowmobile is not available.
Snowmobiles

Step into a winter wonderland with a memorable reindeer safari and farm visit in the heart of Finnish Lapland. Glide through the snowy forest in a traditional reindeer-pulled sleigh, taking in the peaceful surroundings and magical Arctic scenery at a gentle pace — just as the Sámi people have done for generations. 

Duration: 1.5 hours at farm

Reindeer Rides

Feel the thrill of the Arctic on an unforgettable husky safari through the snowy landscapes of Finnish Lapland. Hold on as a lively team of huskies whisks you across frozen trails, surrounded by silent forests and sparkling white scenery – the perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. For this safari, you will drive the sleigh.

Duration: 1.5 hours at farm

  • Children younger than 4 are only allowed on 2km husky safari.  
Husky Safaris

Step into the magical Lainio Snow Village, a true Arctic marvel made entirely out of snow and ice. Situated 200 km above the Arctic Circle, this extraordinary hotel is crafted each winter from over 400,000 kilos of ice and 45,000 cubic meters of snow. Every corner of the village is adorned with breathtaking carvings, from the beautifully designed rooms and courtyards to the mesmerising ice bar, restaurant, and Ice Chapel. With themes often inspired by Nordic mythology, the design changes every year, offering a unique experience for every visitor. 

Duration: 1.5 hours at Snow Village (includes guided tour)

  • Lainio Snow Village visits are available from mid December onwards. If you have booked your visit before the official public opening, you will enjoy a more exclusive, behind-the-scenes experience, with the chance to see the artists at work. Please note that the completion of the Snow Village is dependent on weather conditions.
Ice Activities

Snowshoeing in Ylläs offers a beautiful way to explore the breathtaking scenery in Finnish Lapland. Venture out into the pristine Arctic landscape on a guided snowshoe safari through the snow-covered forests. Halfway, you’ll stop for a warming berry juice in front of the fire, and as you explore the trails, your guide will tell stories about Lappish culture and the natural landscape that surrounds you. You may even encounter wildlife such as reindeer, arctic hares, and even the occasional fox or owl.   

Duration: 2 hours

  • Children must be aged 7+ to participate in this activity
Ice Activities

Head out on a guided snowshoe adventure under the starry night sky in search of the magical Northern Lights. You’ll be guided through the pristine Arctic wilderness, under the snow-covered trees, to the best spots in Ylläs, hoping to witness this natural phenomenon. Once you reach the halfway point on the trail, you’ll stop for a warming drink in front of the campfire, where you will be told stories of Lapland and beliefs of the Sámi people, as well as the scientific explanation of this magical light phenomenon.  

Duration: 2 hours

  • Children must be aged 13+ to participate in this activity
Ice Activities

Snowshoeing in Saariselkä is a wonderful way to discover the breathtaking scenery of Finnish Lapland. Set out on a guided snowshoe safari through snow-covered forests, immersing yourself in the untouched Arctic wilderness. Along the way, you'll stop for a warm berry juice by the fire, and as you traverse the trails, your guide will share stories about Lappish culture and the surrounding natural environment. 

Duration: 2 hours

Ice Activities

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