Finnish Lapland in December is nothing short of magical. The land is blanketed in snow, the skies are painted with the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights, and every corner of this Arctic wonderland seems to whisper tales of winter adventure. During my recent trip to Lapland, I discovered a place where nature, culture, and winter sports intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. Here’s a detailed account of my December vacation in Finnish Lapland.
Arrival in Rovaniemi
Rovaniemi, often referred to as the official hometown of Santa Claus, was my starting point. The town is small but charming, adorned with festive lights that make it feel like a winter fairy tale even before you step into the wilderness.
Upon arrival, I was greeted by a crisp Arctic air that immediately put me in the holiday spirit. The town offers a mix of modern amenities and cultural experiences. One of the highlights was visiting the Arktikum Museum, which provides an in-depth look at the history, culture, and nature of Lapland.
Winter Adventures Begin
Rovaniemi is not just about Santa Claus and museums; it’s also the perfect base for winter activities. I had booked a husky safari, which was one of the most thrilling experiences of my trip. Riding a sled pulled by a team of enthusiastic huskies through snowy forests and frozen lakes is both exhilarating and serene. The huskies themselves are incredibly spirited, and it’s impossible not to fall in love with their energy.
After the husky adventure, I explored the Santa Claus Village. While it is a tourist hotspot, it captures the essence of Lapland in December. You can meet Santa, cross the Arctic Circle, and send postcards from the Santa Claus Post Office — all surrounded by snow-covered cottages and twinkling lights.
Sami Culture and Reindeer Experiences
No trip to Lapland is complete without immersing yourself in Sami culture. The Sami are the indigenous people of Lapland, and their traditions and lifestyle have been preserved for centuries. I visited a reindeer farm where I learned about reindeer herding, an essential part of Sami culture.
Riding a reindeer sled through the snow was a magical experience. Unlike the husky sleds, this ride was slower, allowing time to appreciate the silence of the Arctic wilderness. The guides shared stories about the Sami way of life, the myths surrounding the Northern Lights, and the challenges of living in such a harsh yet beautiful environment.
Chasing the Northern Lights
One of the main reasons to visit Lapland in December is the chance to witness the Aurora Borealis. The Northern Lights are unpredictable, but when they appear, they are mesmerizing. I booked a Northern Lights tour that took me far from the city lights into the wilderness. Standing under a sky filled with swirling green and purple lights is an experience that words can hardly capture.
Pro tips for Northern Lights hunting:
- Dress in layers; the Arctic night is extremely cold.
- Bring a tripod for photography to capture the auroras properly.
- Be patient; sometimes the lights only appear after hours of waiting.
Snow Adventures: Skiing and Snowshoeing
Lapland in December offers countless opportunities for snow sports. I spent a day at a nearby ski resort trying both cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Cross-country skiing is particularly popular in Finland and is a fantastic way to explore the forests and frozen lakes at your own pace.
Snowshoeing, on the other hand, is slower but allows you to traverse untouched snowy landscapes. Both activities give you a unique perspective on the serene beauty of Lapland.
Winter Accommodation
Accommodation in Lapland ranges from cozy log cabins to luxurious glass igloos. I stayed in a glass igloo for a couple of nights, and it was an unforgettable experience. Lying in bed, looking up at the night sky while waiting for the Northern Lights, felt like stepping into a dream.
Many lodges and hotels also offer traditional Finnish saunas, which are a perfect way to warm up after a day in the snow. Sauna culture is an integral part of Finnish life, and experiencing it in the Arctic winter is truly rejuvenating.
Local Cuisine
Lapland’s cuisine is hearty and designed to keep you warm in the cold. I tried several local dishes, including reindeer stew, salmon soup, and berry desserts made from cloudberries and lingonberries. Finnish pastries, like karjalanpiirakka (rice pies), were also delightful snacks after a day outdoors.
Day Trips and Scenic Spots
Beyond Rovaniemi, there are plenty of day trips and scenic spots to explore:
- Pyhä-Luosto National Park: Offers breathtaking snow-covered landscapes and opportunities for winter hiking.
- Ranua Wildlife Park: Home to Arctic animals, including polar bears, lynxes, and owls.
- Saariselkä: A small village perfect for skiing and snowmobiling.
Each location has its unique charm, and December’s deep snow makes everything feel like a picture-perfect winter postcard.
Practical Tips for Visiting Lapland in December
- Clothing: Layering is essential. Thermal base layers, wool sweaters, insulated jackets, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots are must-haves.
- Daylight: December has very short daylight hours in Lapland, sometimes only 3-4 hours, so plan activities accordingly.
- Transportation: Renting a car is convenient, but guided tours are recommended if you’re unfamiliar with driving in snow and ice.
- Bookings: December is peak tourist season; book accommodations and activities well in advance.
Reflections on a Lapland Winter Vacation
My December trip to Finnish Lapland was an enchanting blend of adventure, culture, and natural wonder. From husky sledding to witnessing the Northern Lights, every experience was memorable. Lapland in winter is not just a destination — it’s an immersion into a world where snow and ice create a unique kind of magic.
If you’re looking for a travel experience that combines thrill, tranquility, and a touch of holiday wonder, Finnish Lapland should be at the top of your list. December, with its snow-covered landscapes and festive atmosphere, is truly the best time to visit.
Visiting Lapland is a reminder that the world still has places of unspoiled beauty where nature dominates and every snowflake feels like a small miracle. I left with a heart full of memories, a camera full of stunning photos, and a longing to return to this Arctic paradise.
Have you been to Lapland in winter? Share your experiences in the comments below!