Witnessing the northern lights tops the wish-list of many who plan a visit to the Nordics in the winter, and rightly so, but there’s so much more to an Arctic experience than aurora hunting!
Imagine racing through snow-laden boreal forests on a husky sled, skygazing from a hot tub in the Icelandic countryside or being immersed in the indigenous life of the Sami whilst cosying up in a lavvu tent beside a wood-burning stove.
From the frozen tundra of Lapland and the fjord-indented coastline of Northern Norway to the volcanic vistas of Iceland, discover winter as it should be in the captivating Nordic region. Read on to discover the quintessential experiences that make a winter holiday here so special and ensure that seeing the aurora is the cherry on top!
The call of the wild
Husky sledding
Fast, fun and furry, husky sledding is one of the most iconic experiences on a winter holiday in Lapland. It’s surprisingly easy to become a master of mushing – you’re taught all the basics from fitting dog harnesses to steering the sled and all-important braking! Then it’s time to hit the trail. Let your dog team lead you through pine forests and across frozen lakes with the only sounds the runners on the snow and the rhythmic panting of the dogs. Husky sledding is a must-do experience on our winter breaks in Sweden, Finland and Norway.
We recommend: Muotka Wilderness Adventure »
Adrenaline rush
Snowmobiling
You’re sure to get a buzz out of snowmobiling. Easy to get the hang of – throttle on the right, brake on the left – you can access wild and remote scenery and have a lot of fun in doing so.
Guided tours range from a few hours to a full day, or perhaps even overnight. Weave through snow-laden forests in Lapland, zip across glaciers in Iceland or reach remote fjords in Svalbard. Race across the pack ice on the frozen Gulf of Bothnia or chase the aurora on a nighttime adventure.
We recommend: Winters Dream at Brandon Lodge »
Nordic skiing
Norway is the home of cross-country skiing, but it’s a standard pastime across the wider region. It’s therefore not surprising to see it featured as an activity in nearly all winter resorts from coastal Lapland to the inclusive wilderness hotels in Finland.
A great way to feel at one with your surroundings, explore the trails in near silence. Instruction is given, so no previous experience in necessary. While for those wishing to hone existing skills, longer trails are usually available.
We recommend: Iso-Syote Log Cabin Hideaway »
Like a local
The way of the Sami
Gain an insight into the fascinating culture of the Sami – the traditional reindeer herders of northern Europe. Recognising eight seasons in the year rather than four, the Sami calendar revolves around reindeer. Find out about their 8000-year-old history on a visit to a reindeer farm, sample a traditional meal in a lavvu and drive a reindeer sled.
We recommend: Inari Wilderness Adventure »
Sauna culture
One of the wonderfully indulgent things about a winter holiday in the Nordics is that saunas and hot tubs are part of everyday life. Gently poach yourself in geothermal pools in Iceland or take on a traditional cleansing ritual in a Finnish sauna.
Saunas, and/or hot tubs feature heavily in winter breaks in the Nordics and are the perfect way to warm up and wind down after a busy day adventuring. Look out for private saunas in when choosing your accommodation in some resorts, particularly in Finland.
We recommend: Aurora Village Winter Escape »
Wet and wild
Boat safaris & whale watching
Imagine watching a pod of orcas rounding up vast shoals of herring on a winter-feeding frenzy in Iceland. Or witnessing humpbacks breach the surface of the Norwegian Sea. Or white-tailed eagles soar overhead searching for prey in Senja. Decked out in cosy all-in-one overalls, and against a backdrop of snow-dusted mountains, head out on boat trips with expert guides to experience the majestic wildlife that frequent the waters off Iceland and northern Norway in winter.
We recommend: Orcas and Aurora »
Taking the plunge
Experiences don’t get cooler than plunging into a carefully hewn opening in the frozen River Torne beside Swedish Lapland’s Icehotel. It’s part of an invigorating 10-step sauna ritual available to guests. Off Senja Island in Norway, put aside any sartorial style and climb into a floatation suit for a spot of Arctic bathing.
We recommend: Magical Winter at Hamn i Senja »
Heavens above
Starwatching
The aurora is the most compelling reason to keep gazing skyward during a Nordic winter, but the Arctic night sky offers so much more. The remote locations of our winter holidays offer wonderful chances for stargazing. One of our favourite properties in Iceland, Hotel Ranga, even has its own observatory. Guests can spend evenings marvelling at the wonders of some of the darkest skies in Europe.
At Abisko in Swedish Lapland, there are more clear nights than anywhere else in Europe. Head up to the Aurora Sky Station by chairlift and you almost feel like you can touch the stars such is the clarity of the night sky overhead. The clues in the name – this is an unrivalled location for sightings of the aurora borealis.
Whether through a telescope, around an open fire in the wilderness, under the covers in a cosy, glass-roofed cabin or whilst snowmobiling over frozen lakes, embrace the celestial wonders of the dark, Nordic skies.
We recommend:
Aurora Nights »
Northern Lights, Abisko and Icehotel »
Sensory sensations
Culinary delights
An integral part of any holiday, Nordic food adventures range from experiential to simply delectable. With an emphasis on locally sourced produce, prepare to be wowed by startlit dining in Lapland or sophisticated creations at Iceland’s Hotel Husafell.
Sample the Ice Menu at the Icehotel, where all courses are served on ice platters, or indulge in a 12-course tasting menu designed to engage all your senses.
We recommend: Northern Lights, Glaciers and Waterfalls »
Exquisite ice art
An extraordinary place to sleep, the Icehotel is also an amazing art installation by day. Marvel at unique ice suites, sip a cocktail in the world famous Icebar and try your hand at ice-sculpting to experience the joy of working with this ephemeral medium for yourself.
We recommend: Icehotel Break »
Feeling inspired?
Get in touch with our team to chat through your perfect winter break in Sweden, Iceland, Finland or Norway. Call on 01737 214 250 or send an enquiry.