The Nordics
Where exactly is Lapland? A Nordic trio’s arctic treasure
Lapland explained: everything you need to know about this Arctic region
Wondering where Lapland actually is and what makes it special? You’re not alone. Lapland isn’t one country – it’s a region that covers the far north of Finland, Sweden and Norway, tied together by breathtaking Arctic landscapes and Sami culture. Imagine a place where winter is so quiet that only reindeer or the glow of the Northern Lights break the stillness and where summer stretches into endless daylight under the midnight sun. Here, we dive into what makes Lapland so unique, from its epic landscapes and Sami heritage to the magic that each season brings.
Where exactly is Lapland, and why is it spread across Finland, Sweden and Norway?
Lapland, spanning the northern reaches of Finland, Sweden, and Norway and spilling into Russia’s Kola Peninsula, is a cultural and geographical region shaped by millennia of Sami heritage, nature and the Arctic climate.
Rather than following political borders, Lapland evolved through the movement and traditions of the Sami people, who have lived in these lands for thousands of years. Known for its reindeer, Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun, Lapland’s landscapes – from sweeping tundras to dense forests – are timeless, shaped by glacial movements and the harsh, unyielding Arctic climate.
Historically, the Sami, Europe’s only recognised Indigenous people, were nomadic, following reindeer herds across what are now national borders. As Finland, Sweden and Norway established their boundaries, Sami lands were divided, but culture and traditions stayed intact across these artificial lines. The region’s blurred borders reflect this history, as each country shares a piece of the Sami homeland, or Sápmi, with the Sami people maintaining a deep connection to their ancestral lands despite changing political landscapes.
This cross-border identity adds to Lapland’s mystique, with each country offering a unique lens on the Arctic. Finnish Lapland is known for accessible winter tourism and Rovaniemi’s Santa Claus Village. Swedish Lapland is famed for its raw, untouched wilderness, ideal for those seeking solitude in Abisko or the Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, and Norwegian Lapland merges Arctic wilderness with dramatic fjords and coastal vistas around Tromsø. Across all three regions, you’ll find echoes of Sami traditions, from reindeer herding to joik singing.
Today, Lapland’s boundaries remain fluid, much like the landscape itself, which is as vast and wild as it has been for millennia. Each part of Lapland allows visitors to step into a shared Arctic legacy – one that transcends borders, celebrates nature and preserves the traditions of the North’s original inhabitants.
What makes Lapland unique compared to other Arctic regions?
Lapland stands apart from other Arctic destinations for its profound accessibility combined with its wilderness. The Northern Lights seem more luminous here, set against forested landscapes and mirrored in glacial lakes.
While you could visit Canada or Russia for an Arctic experience, nowhere else has this blend of ancient culture, from Sami reindeer herders to storied folklore, alongside world-class amenities. Whether it’s cosying up in a glass igloo with the auroras shimmering above or exploring Arctic towns, the region strikes a rare balance between raw nature and refined experiences.
How does Lapland differ in Finland, Sweden and Norway?
The spirit of Lapland is consistent across borders, but each country has its own version. Finnish Lapland embraces tourism with open arms – its infrastructure is well-developed, and Rovaniemi’s Santa Claus Village adds a whimsical allure.
Swedish Lapland, in contrast, offers an unpolished wilderness. In places like Jokkmokk, you’ll encounter fewer crowds, deeper silence and locals who, after some persuasion, are likely to share a story or two.
Norwegian Lapland, or Finnmark, is where the mountains meet the sea. It’s coastal yet Arctic, where places like Alta offer fjord-side adventures, blending icy waters with reindeer-filled highlands.
What makes Finnish Lapland unique, and what should I make sure to include during my visit?
Finnish Lapland, a vast region of snowy forests, open fells and ancient Sami culture set in wilderness and tradition. The area covers the northernmost third of Finland, comprising regions like Rovaniemi, Inari and Sodankylä, where each town and landscape brings out a different facet of Arctic life. Unlike the more rugged and mountainous Lapland of Norway and Sweden, Finnish Lapland is largely characterised by expansive, gently rolling fells, sprawling pine forests and lakes, creating a setting that feels endless and serene.
Rovaniemi, the regional capital, is often the starting point for visitors and embodies the magic of Lapland in many ways. Known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, it’s where the Arctic Circle crosses Finland and is home to the beloved Santa Claus Village. Children and adults alike will be enchanted by the festive atmosphere, which feels especially magical under a thick blanket of snow in the midst of winter. Rovaniemi also offers the Arktikum Museum, where you can delve into Lapland’s history, natural environment, and Arctic culture.
If you are seeking adventure, Levi is Finland’s premier ski resort. Located in the Kittilä region, Levi offers diverse slopes, night-skiing events and après-ski options, all surrounded by pristine Lappish scenery – a picturesque setting for skiing, dog sledding or snowmobiling under the aurora-lit sky.
Saariselkä, a quieter destination in the far north, is ideal if you are looking to experience Lapland’s wilderness at a slower pace. Explore the fell landscapes, aurora hunt and try snowshoeing through pine-draped forests without the crowds. Inari, another must-visit, is the cultural heart of Finland’s Sami community. The Siida Museum in Inari provides deep insight into Sami history, while local craftspeople offer traditional duodji – handicrafts rooted in Sami traditions, from leather goods to reindeer antler carvings.
For a truly immersive Arctic experience, Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort offers glass igloos where you can watch the Northern Lights from the warmth of your bed, creating memories that blend luxury with nature. Finnish Lapland is also famous for its traditional saunas, often paired with a dip in an icy lake.
What makes Swedish Lapland unique, and what experiences should I prioritise there?
Swedish Lapland, the northernmost region of Sweden, is a land of striking contrasts. From rugged mountains to expansive pine forests and vast open tundra, it offers a remote, untouched Arctic landscape like no other. The region spans areas like Kiruna, Jokkmokk, and Gällivare, where the vast wilderness is dotted with villages and quaint little towns. The western parts of Swedish Lapland are mountainous compared to its Finnish counterpart, with high peaks, deep valleys, and rivers that cut through the terrain.
A highlight for many travellers is Abisko National Park, an absolute must for nature lovers and one of the world’s top destinations to see the Northern Lights. Thanks to the unique ‘blue hole’ phenomenon, clear skies are common here even when other areas are cloud-covered, providing optimal conditions for aurora sightings.
Hiking through Abisko’s trails, especially along the famous Kungsleden (King’s Trail), immerses visitors in a dramatic winter landscape of frozen lakes, snow-laden forests and mountain backdrops. The scenic train journey from Kiruna to Abisko itself is a memorable experience, passing through endless snow-dusted forests and open stretches of Arctic wilderness that reveal the scale of Lapland’s landscapes.
In Jukkasjärvi, near Kiruna, the renowned Icehotel is both an art installation and a hotel, rebuilt every winter from blocks of ice sourced from the Torne River. Each suite is carved by artists from around the world, creating a space where every room feels like a unique winter wonderland. Staying in the Icehotel allows you to try sleeping on ice beds covered in reindeer hides and insulated sleeping bags while gazing at the surrounding frosty art. And if the thought of icy accommodation sounds too chilly, the Icehotel also offers ‘warm’ (it is all relative!) rooms and activities like ice sculpting classes and Northern Lights tours.
Swedish Lapland is also deeply connected to Sami culture. Each February, the Jokkmokk Winter Market, held annually for the last 400 years or so, is one of the best places to experience Sami traditions. This lively market is a cultural immersion, featuring traditional Sami clothing, handicrafts, reindeer races and a chance to sample local delicacies. Jokkmokk’s shops and workshops showcase duodji – Sami handicrafts, with items like intricate jewellery, leather goods and beautifully decorated knives.
What makes Norwegian Lapland unique, and what should I plan to see or do?
Norwegian Lapland, known as Finnmark, offers Arctic landscapes and dramatic coastal fjords, where towering cliffs meet icy waters. This region is more mountainous than Finnish or Swedish Lapland, with a rugged coastline, deep fjords and snowy plateaus, creating a stunningly diverse environment that feels as wild as it is picturesque. Finnmark includes notable towns like Tromsø, Alta, Kautokeino and Karasjok, each providing unique experiences that bring you closer to Norway’s Arctic wonders and Sami heritage.
Tromsø, often called the ’Gateway to the Arctic,’ is an essential stop. This small but lively city balances a cosmopolitan feel with a deep-rooted Arctic identity, home to cafes, museums and festivals celebrating life in the North. Tromsø’s Arctic Cathedral, with its striking design inspired by ice and snow, is a landmark, while the Polar Museum offers insight into the region’s exploration history. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture through events like the Midnight Sun Marathon in summer or reindeer races during Sami Week. For unforgettable Arctic scenery, take a boat tour from Tromsø through the fjords, which are especially mesmerising under the Northern Lights in winter and in the Midnight Sun in the height of summer.
For a deeper connection to Sami culture, visit Kautokeino and Karasjok, the cultural heartlands of Norway’s Sami population. Kautokeino hosts the annual Easter Festival, featuring reindeer races, traditional Sami music and cultural workshops. In Karasjok, the Sami Parliament of Norway and the Sami Museum offer further understanding of indigenous traditions, including joik singing and traditional handicrafts.
Alta combines nature and history, famous for its UNESCO-listed ancient rock carvings that date back over 6,000 years. These carvings depict scenes of hunting, fishing and everyday life, offering a window into the early Arctic communities that shaped the region. Alta is also a fantastic base for winter activities like snowmobiling, dog sledding and viewing the Northern Lights, with several scenic lodges catering to aurora hunters.
If visiting in late January, don’t miss the Northern Lights Festival in Tromsø, where musicians from around the world perform against a backdrop of glowing Arctic skies. This event brings together local and international talent, capturing the magic of the auroras alongside classical and contemporary music.
What’s the cultural significance of Lapland, especially regarding the Sami people?
The Sami people, Europe’s only recognised Indigenous group, hold a unique and enduring connection to Lapland, yet their cultural reach extends beyond this Arctic region into northern Norway, Sweden, Finland and even Russia’s Kola Peninsula. Known as Sápmi in the Sami language, this area spans national borders, embodying a shared Sami identity that has persisted for thousands of years. Unlike the boundaries of the states they inhabit, Sápmi is a landscape rooted in tradition, with culture, spirituality and language deeply tied to the natural world.
Historically, the Sami lived semi-nomadically, with lifestyles shaped by the Arctic seasons. Reindeer herding, one of their most recognisable practices, is a cornerstone of Sami culture, providing food, clothing and a spiritual connection to the land. Herders moved with the seasons, following reindeer migrations across vast landscapes, including tundra, forests and highlands, depending on the region. Fishing, hunting and gathering were also crucial activities, allowing the Sami to adapt to the harsh Arctic environment. Sami communities developed sustainable practices that respected the fragile ecosystem, taking only what was necessary from nature and giving back through rituals and practices that reflected a deep gratitude for the land.
Today, although many Sami have adapted to modern lifestyles, reindeer herding remains a central part of Sami identity and livelihood. In Norway, Sweden and Finland it is legally protected as a Sami right. This practice endures, despite challenges posed by climate change, urban development and shifting government policies that sometimes threaten traditional lands. Sami communities also remain strong in traditional crafts. Each piece that is made is a blend of function and art, reflecting the aesthetics and practicality honed over centuries.
One of the most powerful expressions of Sami culture is joik, a haunting, rhythmic form of singing thought to be one of Europe’s oldest musical traditions. Joik is deeply personal, often created to reflect the spirit of a person, animal or landscape. Hearing a joik can feel like stepping into Sami history, as the music conveys the rhythm of life in the Arctic, capturing both joy and hardship. Visiting a Sami community offers a chance to experience this tradition first-hand, along with duodji craftsmanship, reindeer herding demonstrations and local storytelling, providing insight into how Sami heritage is kept alive today.
Despite modern pressures, the Sami people are resilient, continuing to balance tradition with contemporary life. They actively advocate for their rights, work to preserve their language, which is one of the oldest in Europe, and participate in government through bodies like the Sami Parliaments in Norway, Sweden and Finland. These institutions allow Sami voices to be heard in matters affecting their land and culture, ensuring that the legacy of Sápmi endures in the face of change.
Lapland is inextricably linked to Sami culture, but the Sami story is much broader, stretching across borders and blending old ways with new. For visitors, experiencing Sami culture in Lapland is a humbling reminder of the depth and resilience of Arctic life – a rare opportunity to witness a culture that has survived and thrived for thousands of years in Europe’s far North.
What are the most popular towns and cities to visit in Lapland?
Lapland is home to many small towns and villages, each bringing its own perspective on Arctic life, history and culture. Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is a popular base and often the first stop for visitors. Known worldwide as the ’official’ home of Santa Claus, it draws families and travellers alike to Santa Claus Village on the Arctic Circle, where festive cheer runs year-round. Beyond the holiday magic, Rovaniemi has much to offer: the Arktikum Museum provides deep insight into Arctic history and climate science, while the city’s restaurants serve up traditional Lappish dishes, allowing you to savour Arctic char, reindeer and cloudberries. Its well-developed infrastructure makes Rovaniemi a gateway to Northern Lights tours, husky safaris and other Arctic adventures, balancing modern comforts with an authentic Lapland experience.
Kiruna in Swedish Lapland offers a raw and less commercial view of the Arctic, with wilderness immersion at its core. As Sweden’s northernmost town, Kiruna is undergoing an extraordinary project: its entire town centre, historical buildings included, is being physically lifted off the ground and relocated several kilometres eastward due to subsidence from iron ore mining. The journey from Kiruna to nearby Abisko National Park is one of Sweden’s most scenic, especially in winter when snow-blanketed forests and frozen lakes create a postcard-perfect Arctic landscape. Abisko, famed for the ’blue hole’ phenomenon, is one of the world’s best places for Northern Lights viewing, offering clearer skies even in cloudy conditions.
Tromsø, often called the Gateway to the Arctic, brings Norwegian flair to the Lapland experience. The city’s iconic Arctic Cathedral, with its dramatic triangular structure, mirrors the surrounding snowy peaks, while its cultural offerings include the Polar Museum and the Northern Lights Festival in late January. Tromsø’s location along the fjords allows visitors to combine Arctic activities with coastal excursions, from whale-watching tours to scenic boat trips under the Northern Lights.
For a more traditional Sami experience, smaller towns like Inari in Finland and Kautokeino in Norway provide unique windows into Sami life. Inari, set by the stunning Lake Inari, is home to the Sami Parliament and the Siida Museum, where you can learn about Sami history, language and culture. In Kautokeino, the annual Easter Festival draws Sami from across Sápmi to celebrate with reindeer races, traditional music and local crafts, offering an authentic glimpse into Sami heritage.
Why is Rovaniemi called the capital of Finnish Lapland?
Rovaniemi is often considered the capital of Finnish Lapland due to its strategic location, cultural significance, and fusion of Arctic traditions with modern conveniences and everyday life. Established as a small settlement in the 19th century, Rovaniemi developed gradually until the Second World War, when it was heavily damaged and had to be largely rebuilt. This reconstruction, led by the renowned Finnish architect Alvar Aalto, gave Rovaniemi its distinct shape – a reindeer’s head when viewed from above – symbolising its deep connection to Lapland’s identity.
What truly put Rovaniemi on the world map, however, was its transformation into the official hometown of Santa Claus. In 1985, Santa Claus Village opened on the Arctic Circle, a short drive from the city centre, turning Rovaniemi into a global destination for Christmas enthusiasts. Today, visitors from around the world come to meet Santa year-round, explore his workshop and experience the festive charm of the Christmas season no matter the month. Santa Claus Village not only caters to families but has made Rovaniemi the gateway for winter tourism in Finnish Lapland, attracting visitors eager to experience snow-draped landscapes, reindeer sleigh rides, and the Northern Lights.
Rovaniemi is a city that embodies the spirit of Finnish Lapland. It serves as a base for Northern Lights chasers, with easy access to wilderness areas for snowmobiling, husky safaris and ice fishing. The Arktikum Museum, one of its most prominent landmarks, provides an in-depth look at Arctic history, indigenous Sami culture and climate science, providing context and depth to the Lapland experience. Additionally, Rovaniemi’s restaurants showcase Lappish cuisine, featuring local ingredients like reindeer, Arctic char and cloudberries, allowing you to savour the tastes of the North.
What’s the best time to visit Lapland for the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun?
If you are looking to experience the Northern Lights, the best time to visit Lapland is from October to March. During these months, long Arctic nights and clear skies increase the chances of witnessing the auroras. In autumn, the Northern Lights dance over landscapes filled with beautiful autumnal colours, adding an extra layer of contrast and beauty. One just has to be aware that the first snowfall in the area often happens as early as October. As winter settles in, snow-covered landscapes create an ethereal scene, with the lights reflecting off frozen lakes and white-draped forests, especially in places like Abisko in Swedish Lapland, which is renowned for its aurora-friendly ’blue hole,’ a patch of clear sky that often defies surrounding cloud cover. Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi, Saariselkä and Kittilä are popular spots to catch the auroras, while Norway’s Tromsø offers a mix of coastal and mountainous backdrops. Although the auroras can theoretically be seen across all of Lapland, areas with less artificial light and fewer clouds, like Abisko and northern parts of Finland and Norway, provide optimal conditions.
For the Midnight Sun, June and July are ideal. Above the Arctic circle during this period, the sun remains above the horizon 24 hours, creating surreal, never-ending days. In northern Lapland, including towns like Inari and Kiruna, the sun doesn’t set for weeks, offering round-the-clock opportunities for hiking, fishing or exploring with a unique Arctic glow. It’s worth bringing an eye mask, as the constant daylight can be disorienting and does nothing to improve the lives of insomniacs.
Each season in Lapland has its own charm. October showcases golden forests, January brings deep, quiet snow and ideal aurora conditions, and June offers endless daylight. From the mystical winter landscapes to the eternal daylight of summer, Lapland’s seasons reveal distinct sides of its Arctic allure.
Read the articles on the best hotels to stay in Norway to see the elusive Northern Lights and the best places to stay in Finland to see the elusive Northern Lights.
How does Lapland’s climate vary across seasons?
Lapland’s climate is as captivating as its landscape, shifting dramatically with each season. Winters are long, dark, and deeply cold, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing. We’re talking -30°C (-22°F). Snow blankets the region as early as October, staying until late April in the north, and bringing with it the crisp silence of winter and near-constant twilight. Yet, this chill is part of the magic. The clear, dark skies give life to the Northern Lights, dancing above frozen lakes and snow-draped forests.
Come spring, Lapland emerges with a burst of energy as snow begins to melt and rivers rush with fresh ice melt. By June, the Midnight Sun casts a warm, golden glow that lasts through July, allowing nearly endless days of outdoor adventure. Summers are short and mild, with temperatures hovering between 10-20°C (50-70°F), providing less harsh temperatures for hikers and anglers to explore forests, fells and serene waters. In autumn, Lapland is painted with vibrant reds and oranges as the trees and tundra prepare for winter again, and the cooling nights bring the first glimpses of the Northern Lights.
Each season reveals a new side of Lapland, capturing the Arctic’s beauty in different lights and hues. A word of advice for any visitor not used to the climate in the far north of Scandinavia is to always stay updated on the weather forecast. The weather can be volatile and change fast.
What should I pack for a winter trip to Lapland and how cold does it get?
Pack thermal layers, insulated boots, a windproof parka and gloves that allow touchscreen use (you’ll want those aurora photos). Temperatures can plummet to -30°C or lower so a fair amount of layers is highly recommended. Many tour operators provide additional winter gear, but being prepared yourself means more comfort as you explore.
What wildlife and nature experiences are unique to Lapland?
Lapland offers unparalleled wildlife experiences, bringing visitors face-to-face with Arctic animals in their natural habitats or up close in specially designed sanctuaries. Reindeer are a quintessential part of Lapland’s landscape, often spotted grazing or trotting along the snowy trails and even crossing main roads. For a deeper encounter, join a reindeer safari led by a Sami guide, where you’ll learn about reindeer herding – a centuries-old tradition – and even try your hand at lassoing.
If you are curious about Arctic predators, Ranua Wildlife Park in Finland offers a safe way to view native animals like polar bears, lynxes, wolverines and arctic foxes. This sanctuary is particularly popular with families, providing a glimpse of elusive creatures in a naturalistic setting. In winter, Tromsø becomes a hub for whale-watching, as orcas and humpback whales migrate through its icy fjords to feed on herring. Excursions take you close to these magnificent creatures, often with a background of snow-dusted mountains and serene fjord waters, making it an unforgettable experience.
Lapland’s diverse landscapes also make it a birdwatcher’s haven. Keep an eye out for the Siberian jay, a friendly and curious bird often spotted flitting among the trees. In northern Lapland, you might catch sight of the majestic golden eagle soaring overhead, or hear the haunting calls of the great grey owl echoing through the forest.
For a more immersive wilderness experience, Finnish Lapland’s Oulanka National Park offers pristine nature trails where you might encounter moose grazing by riversides or arctic hares darting through the undergrowth. Winter tours also give visitors a chance to track animal footprints in the snow, learning about the wildlife from local guides who reveal hidden details of the Arctic ecosystem.
What kinds of outdoor activities are available in Lapland throughout the year?
Lapland is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Try a husky safari near Levi, snowmobiling across frozen lakes in Abisko, or ice climbing on Norway’s frozen waterfalls. Summer brings endless hiking trails, especially in places like the Kungsleden trail in Sweden. For a truly authentic experience, try a reindeer sled ride with a Sami guide. Furthermore, possibilities for skiing, both downhill and cross country are abundant throughout with Swedish resort Riksgränsen, Dundret or Abisko and Finland’s Levi, Pyhä or Ylläs, to name but a few. In Norway, Narvik offers dramatic drops, seemingly straight into the fjord below.
What traditional foods should I try while visiting Lapland?
Lapland’s cuisine is deeply connected to its natural environment, offering dishes that are both hearty and flavourful, crafted to sustain and warm against the Arctic chill. One of the region’s most iconic dishes is poronkäristys, or sautéed reindeer stew, often served with mashed potatoes, lingonberries and pickled cucumbers. For an authentic experience, try it in a traditional Sami restaurant, like Aanaar in Inari, where the preparation honours Sami cooking techniques, using fresh, locally sourced reindeer meat.
If fish dishes are your thing, seek out Arctic char, a delicate and slightly sweet fish native to Lapland’s clear, cold waters. Whether grilled, smoked or served as gravlax (cured and thinly sliced), it pairs beautifully with wild herbs and fresh bread. Another must-try delicacy is muikku, or vendace, which is a small fish often found in Finnish Lapland, fried crisp and enjoyed with a dollop of tartar sauce or atop a slice of rye bread.
Lapland’s forests are rich with berries, and cloudberries – often referred to as Lapland’s gold – are particularly prized. These tart yet sweet amber berries are frequently made into jams, served with cheeses, or enjoyed as a warm topping on pancakes. Try them as a sauce over leipäjuusto (a Finnish squeaky cheese) for a traditional pairing, topped with a drizzle of fresh cream.
Rounding off the experience is a cup of Lappish coffee. Often infused with juniper or flavoured with reindeer milk, it’s traditionally served in a hand-carved wooden cup, locally referred to as a kuksa, giving the coffee a subtly earthy taste. For something a bit stronger, try a shot of jaloviina, a Finnish cut brandy, or a glass of locally brewed Sahti, an ancient Finnish beer brewed with juniper berries, adding a rustic, piney flavour.
How is the experience of staying in an igloo, ice hotel or cabin in Lapland?
Sleeping in Lapland’s specialty accommodations brings you closer to its Arctic wonders. Staying in a glass igloo, like those at Finland’s Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort or Norway’s Lyngen North, is a surreal experience. Imagine falling asleep under a sky ablaze with stars, or the Northern Lights visible through the igloo’s thermal glass. These igloos are designed to stay warm and comfortable even in the coldest conditions, creating an intimate space where the wild beauty of Lapland is yours to enjoy from the comfort of your bed.
Read the article on the top stays in glass igloos in Finland.
For something truly unique, ice hotels like Sweden’s famed Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi offer an unforgettable stay. Rebuilt each winter from blocks of the Torne River’s ice, the Icehotel is both an art gallery and a hotel, with each room uniquely sculpted by artists from around the world. Ice chandeliers, frozen carvings and ethereal light create a magical atmosphere. As a guest, you will sleep on reindeer-skin-lined beds in Arctic sleeping bags, experiencing the crisp chill of the ice while staying warm. The knowledge that this incredible creation will melt back into the river in spring adds to the enchantment.
For a cosy and rustic experience, Lapland’s cabins offer warmth and proximity to nature. Often situated on remote lakesides or surrounded by forest, these cabins are ideal for those who want to unwind in a secluded setting. Many feature traditional Finnish saunas, allowing guests to heat up before a brisk, refreshing plunge into an icy lake – a revitalising Arctic tradition. In the Norwegian fjords, cabins offer dramatic views of snow-dusted cliffs and provide a base for winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Read the article on the top remote cottages and cabins in Norway.
Are there eco-friendly travel options in Lapland?
Lapland has embraced eco-friendly tourism, offering numerous ways for travellers to explore responsibly. Many lodges focus on sustainable practices, from using solar power to sourcing local, organic ingredients. For instance, Finland’s Arctic TreeHouse Hotel and lodges near Sweden’s Abisko National Park are built with eco-friendly materials and run on renewable energy, achieving comfort with low-impact operations.
To travel sustainably, opt for eco-certified guides and small-group tours that respect Sami culture and the environment. Sweden’s ’Nature’s Best’ certification highlights tours following ethical, ecological practices, while supporting Sami-owned businesses directly benefits local communities, ensuring tourism supports indigenous preservation.
In Finland, Metsähallitus provides resources to enjoy national parks responsibly, with guidelines promoting minimal impact, such as staying on trails and carrying out waste. Norway also encourages a ’Leave No Trace’ approach, with many tour operators providing eco-tips to help travellers protect Lapland’s fragile ecosystems.
How do I get around Lapland, is it easy to travel between the different Lapland regions?
Travelling across Lapland’s vast distances can seem daunting, but options are plentiful. Regional airports like Rovaniemi, Kiruna and Tromsø connect well to major Scandinavian cities, making it easy to start your journey from a central hub. For a scenic option, the Arctic Circle train runs between Sweden and Norway, allows you to travel close to dramatic fjords and view snowy landscapes from the comfort of a warm carriage.
Car hire is of course the best option for flexibility to move freely across borders and explore remote areas. Roads are generally well-maintained, even in winter, though renting a 4WD is advised if you’re venturing into the heart of wilderness areas. Just be mindful of the strict laws concerning driving off-road, which in general is strictly forbidden and may incur hefty fines. It is no surprise that traffic is light and for the most part never a challenge. Like the rest of Scandinavia, Finland’s local buses and trains are efficient, connecting key towns like Rovaniemi to remote spots like Inari. Be mindful of the timetables though, as you may discover that a certain bus line only runs once or twice a day. Crossing between Lapland’s countries is seamless – borders are open, and no passport checks are required within the Schengen area.
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