The Aurora Zone Blog

What experiences can you take part in this autumn in Finnish Lapland?

If you are seeking a peaceful holiday to unwind, don't just go off-the-beaten-track, travel out of season to uncover one of the best-kept secrets of Northern Lights hunting; autumn in Finnish Lapland.

 Autumn Northern Lights in Lapland Credit Markus Kiili and Visit Finland 2

Experience an autumn break in the heart of Lapland where the landscape is ablaze with a kaleidoscope of earthy hues, inky Arctic skies are bursting with celestial ripples of dancing light and daytime hours provide exquisite opportunities. See below for the experiences you could enjoy this autumn in Finnish Lapland.


1) Hunt the Aurora on horseback

Harriniva Hotels Safaris Horses 7 2
Available to beginners as well as more experienced riders, this new experience in Northern Finland’s pristine wilderness of Torassieppi provides a back-to-nature way to hunt for the Aurora Borealis. It's also the perfect way to get out and explore Lapland’s autumnal forests!

View this holiday


2) Spend a night under the stars

Torassieppi 33 Credit Antti Pietikainen 2
As the night draws in, don’t pause your Northern Lights hunt; Torassieppi's Aurora Dome will become your cosy sanctuary. With a spectacular lakeside setting, scandi-style interior and a panoramic window with a view of the sky, you'll have space to immerse yourself in the best of autumn.

View this holiday

 

 

3) Search for the Northern Lights by boat

Autumn Northern Lights in Finland Credit Markus Kiili and Visit Finland 2 2
In early autumn the lakes have not yet frozen over and you can get out on the water for a different Northern Lights hunt, exploring the lake by boat. This is a peaceful way to search for the Aurora Borealis and allows you to escape light pollution and obtain wonderful views. Should the Northern Lights appear you may even be treated to a captivating display as the lights reflect off the inky black water of the lake.

View this holiday


4) Tick husky sledding off your bucket list – autumn style!

Rovaniemi Credit Juho Kuva and Visit Finland 5 002 2
Huskies are synonymous with the Arctic and are an experience you definitely shouldn’t miss out on. Following a tour of the husky camp, you will experience a taste of the musher’s lifestyle with a 30-minute pulled sleigh ride on a wheeled sled through the stunning countryside.

View this holiday


5) Relax in a sauna under the Northern Lights

Inari Sauna 6 Credit Matt Robinson 2
There is nothing more Finnish than a sauna and many Finns think you cannot grasp Finland or its culture without relaxing in one! At Wilderness Hotel Inari, you can combine your search for the Northern Lights with this tradition in a glass-roofed, purpose-built sauna situated on the lakeside.

View this holiday


6) Get back to nature on a hike

IMG 1938 kopio Credit Northern Lights Village Saariselka 2
Muotka’s peaceful surroundings are the perfect place to get back to nature and explore the vibrant autumn landscapes. Travel through pine forests, sample edible berries and get an insight into the local flora and fauna. You may even encounter some of the native wildlife!

View this holiday


7) Learn how to capture the Aurora on a photography workshop!

19 8 Credit Timo Halonen 2
Let’s face it, everyone who travels to see the Northern Lights wants to capture the once-in-a-lifetime moment on film to cherish for years to come (and share on social media!). In Menesjärvi, your expert guide will teach you the vital skills you will need to successfully take a photograph of the Aurora that you will be proud to keep.

View this holiday

 

8) Visit one of the last remaining amethyst mines

PL amethyst lampivaara 3 2
Luosto is home to one of the last few working amethyst mines in Europe. On a day trip to Lampivaara Fell, you’ll enjoy a presentation detailing how amethysts are formed before you dig for your own gemstone. If you can close your hand around any of the gems you find, you may take one with you as a souvenir.

View this holiday

 

 

Photography by Markus Killi and Visit Finland, Antti Pietikainen, Juho Kuva and Visit Finland

 

Read 3146 times Last modified on Friday, 18 March 2022

Get an expert opinion

The Aurora Zone was born from a desire to share Mother Nature’s greatest wonder with our clients. We’ve explored the destinations, researched the science, and fallen in love with the Scandinavian way of life. It’s our mission to pass this knowledge on to you, providing you with the very best chance of experiencing the magic for yourself on your Northern Lights holiday.

  • Specialist

    Aurora knowledge and experience

    Unique holidays, in the very best destinations

    Expert guides – exceptional local knowledge

    Advice and guidance every step of the way

  • Comprehensive

    We include more in our holidays than any other Aurora operator

    Price Comparison guarantee

    No ‘from’ prices, everything you see is included in the price

    No hidden extras

  • Independent

    Proudly Independent

    The original and still the only dedicated UK Northern Lights tour operator

    Personal, hands-on service

    Fair and sustainable work ethos

  • Trusted

    ATOL and ABTA Financial protection available

    Over 20 years’ experience

    Our customers rate us 4.9/5 stars

    Award-Winning: Best Travel Company to Northern Europe 2023