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Rovaniemi - Aurora Hunting at the Arctic Circle Wilderness Lodge
Overview
Situated in a beautiful forest setting, the Arctic Circle Wilderness Lodge is an authentic Finnish escape just 20 minutes from Lapland’s capital. As this is also prime Aurora territory, you’ll take part in three evening activities in the hope of capturing the lights, as well as amazing daytime experiences such as dog sledding and snowmobiling.
What's included?
All of the experiences and services listed below are included in the holiday price
- Flights: direct return from London Gatwick to Rovaniemi. Flight routes are subject to change.
- Transfers: return airport transfers
- Accommodation: 4 nights in Stella House log cabin. Upgrades available subject to availability and supplement.
- Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 dinners
- The following activities and equipment are included: snowmobile safari, Northern Lights snowmobile, evening snowshoe hike, husky safari, Aurora reindeer safari (order subject to change)
- Cold weather clothing for the duration of your stay
It may only be a short transfer away from the airport, but Arctic Circle Wilderness Lodge is nestled in a pristine wilderness landscape.
Overlooking the river rapids and snowy forest, the setting is beautiful and feels a long way from the city of Rovaniemi, despite the transfer only being 20 minutes. As night falls and the pitch-black skies appear overhead, you’ll see why this is one of the best Aurora viewing locations in the area. We have an array of night-time activities planned to give you an unforgettable adventure, and to help you fulfil your goal of witnessing the Northern Lights. From an Aurora snowmobile and evening snowshoe to a reindeer sleigh ride under the night sky, the activities are unforgettable.
The lodge also offers the exceptional Northern Lights flight as an optional extra. During the flight, you will climb above low-lying clouds and will hopefully witness an Aurora display from an incredible vantage point, should conditions be favourable.
After exploring the Arctic at night, you’ll need somewhere to lay your head. Your holiday is based in traditional Finnish log cabin style accommodation, but we can also arrange upgrades for you to the Panorama Huts or the spacious Riverside Apartments.
After a hearty breakfast, we, of course, want to make the most of the daylight hours here too, which is why we include many different daytime activities. You’ll see even more of the natural surroundings during an exciting snowmobile safari, then let a team of huskies take you on a dog sledding adventure. There’s also plenty of time to relax. Unwind as the locals do in the large riverside sauna or take in the beauty of the Arctic with a dip in the hot tub (payable locally).
The Arctic Circle Wilderness Lodge is an ideal base from which to explore the enchanting Arctic and keep watch for the Aurora. With a short transfer time, and an itinerary full of activities, you’ll be able to really make the most of your holiday.
Image Credits: Juho Kuva, Visit Rovaniemi Tourism & Marketing LTD
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Key facts
| Duration: | 4 nights |
| Pace: | Balanced |
Dates & Prices
Thank you for your interest in this Aurora Zone experience.
We have found that this holiday is better tailored exactly to your requirements, so please email our Travel Experts at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or contact us on 01670 785 012 to discuss the various options available to you.
Our Travel Experts have been to all the destinations we feature and love to share their experiences and insight. We want to match you with your perfect trip, so if you have any questions please get in touch; we will be happy to talk through the destinations and itineraries with you.
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Price based on 2 adults (13+) sharing a standard room at Edge (1 night) and a standard room at Radisson Blu Polar Hotel (4 nights). Extra night price based on two adults sharing (price is per room, per night) based on 1 night standard room at Radisson Blu Polar Hotel
Agenda
Agenda
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DAY 1
Arrival
Upon arrival at Rovaniemi Airport, your 20-minute transfer (approximate timing) means you can get your Arctic Circle adventure underway.
Once you’ve checked into your accommodation, you can enjoy a set dinner in the restaurant, just a short walk away. Please note that check-in time is usually 4 pm, therefore if you are arriving early today, we can arrange for lunch to be pre-booked at the lodge, or alternatively you can be dropped off at the Santa Claus Village where lunch can be arranged and you can have some free time to explore; both options will require a supplement. If either of these options interest you, please speak to one of our Travel Experts.
Please note that lunches are not included in your itinerary, however, you can choose to upgrade to full board prior to departure, or you can pre-order and pay locally, but you must do this upon arrival.
Included Meals: Dinner -
DAY 2
Snowmobile Safari and Evening Snowshoe
After you have filled up on breakfast, it’s time for you to experience your Arctic surroundings on a thrilling snowmobile ride. After a full safety briefing and instruction, you’ll set off with your expert guide, making several stops so you can admire the landscape around you. You will travel two people per machine, and there will be the chance for you to swap drivers as long as any driver is over 18 and holds a full driving licence. We can also arrange for you to upgrade to have your own snowmobile should you wish, just ask one of our experts for a quote. Those under 18 can travel in a sledge pulled by the guide’s snowmobile (depending on height and age they may also be able to ride as a passenger). The riding time is approximately one and a half hours and the activity lasts approximately two hours in total.
Once you’ve had dinner, it is time to venture out to watch the sky for the Northern Lights. After a transfer, you will set out exploring the forests on foot, using snowshoes to keep you from sinking in to the snow. You will break for a warm drink and snack around an open fire and will keep watch in case an Aurora display appears above you.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner -
DAY 3
Free Day and Northern Lights Snowmobile Safari
After breakfast, you have a free day in which to tailor your time. We offer a range of options for your free time should you wish to add extra activities during your stay. Please see the ‘Personalise’ tab for details, we offer everything from photography days to ice climbing. Alternatively, simply relaxing in a sauna is often a popular choice too!
We recommend you have an early dinner in the hotel before you head out on your snowmobiles to discover the magic of the Arctic at night.
After transfers, you will be given full instruction and a safety briefing, before setting off on the trails, travelling two people per snowmobile (single snowmobiles available for supplement).
You will travel away from all light pollution to a clearing where you can admire the views of the night sky, sausages will be grilled on a campfire, and hot berry juice will be served. The riding time on the snowmobiles is around 1hr 30 minutes.
You must be over 18 years old and hold a full driving license to drive a snowmobile.
Children can take part in this activity as they will travel in the sledge pulled by the guide’s snowmobile.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner -
DAY 4
Husky Safari and Northern Lights Reindeer Sleigh Ride
After breakfast, you are in for a treat, as you head off to the husky kennels for an unforgettable dog sled safari.
After full instruction on how to handle your team and your sled, you’ll set off on an unforgettable adventure along the forest trails. You will cover between 6-10km during the ride which will last around 45 minutes (all depending on conditions). Two adults can share a sled with two children (with one adult driving the team). Upgrades to single sleds are available on request.
After the thrilling safari you can enjoy warm drinks and cookies with your guides and ask them any questions you may have about the dogs and their working lives. In total you will be out for around three and a half hours.
This evening you will transfer to a reindeer farm, where you will get up close to some of the animals and meet the herder, before setting out on a peaceful reindeer pulled sleigh ride. You will be away from light pollution this evening and so should the conditions be favourable, this will be a magical way in which to see the Northern Lights and finish your holiday. The sleigh ride is approximately forty-five minutes long and you will be out for around three and a half hours in total.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner -
DAY 5
Departure
After breakfast, unfortunately, it’s time for your Arctic Circle adventure to end as we transfer you to the airport. If you have an early flight, we’ll box up breakfast to take with you.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
Accommodation
Included in price
Arctic Circle Wilderness Lodge
Nights: 1-4
Overlooking the rapids of River Raudanjoki, the Arctic Circle Wilderness Lodge offers a variety of amazing accommodation options at its peaceful riverside setting. Only a short transfer from Rovaniemi airport, the resort is hidden amongst the forest with fantastic views of the river and out to the wilderness beyond. A perfect spot for Aurora hunting in the Arctic Circle.
With rustic wooden beam interiors and the gentle glow and warmth from a crackling fire, the cosy atmosphere in the main hotel building is immediately welcoming and the feeling continues throughout the accommodation which is only a short walk away.
There are several room types available, with some based in large log cabins, each with a traditional design and others based in semi-detached riverside cabins. There are also the detached Panorama Huts, with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the beautiful surroundings. Please contact us for a quotation.
Hotel Facilities
- Main lodge with a cosy communal room and a large stone fireplace in the dining room, adding a warming glow to meal times. A former lumberjack’s lodge, the wooden walls are decorated with various tools of the trade
- WiFi is available in all room types and in the main hotel building. Please note that this can, of course, be disturbed by unpredictable weather and heavy snowfall
- The riverside hot tub and sauna offer relaxation with stunning, idyllic views of the rapids. These are bookable for an extra charge, based on private use. You can book these in advance, or locally
- Evening meals during peak times are typically served in a buffet style. Outside of these periods, the buffet menu is normally rearranged to a hearty set menu. In most cases, this consists of a warming soup starter, followed by a set main course (typically either meat or fish dish with vegetables and sides), and a dessert with tea and coffee. The set menu is served at the table. Please let us know at the time of booking if you have any dietary requirements
- Lunch is not included during your time here, however, this can be booked in advance if you wish, or you can arrange it locally, as long as you pre-order the night before.
- The main lodge has a small bar area, where you can purchase a range of beer, wine, spirits and soft drinks
- Stunning riverside views on your doorstep due to the hotel’s setting next to River Raudanjoki
Stella House
Merely 100m from the main hotel building lies Stella House. This large log cabin has an interior inspired by traditional Finnish heritage, primarily lumberjack workers living and working in the forest and amongst the wilderness. This is clear from the cabin’s décor, as both the exterior and interior are lined with rustic logs, and the comforting smell of wood greets you as soon as you step through the door.
The house is made up of five bedrooms, all with private, ensuite bathrooms. Every room has three beds – two in the loft (accessible by steep stairs), and one on the bottom floor.
Bedrooms lead onto a communal lounge area, which is shared with guests staying in the other rooms in the cabin. The large, homely sofas and armchairs make this space perfect for an evening of reading and relaxing after a busy day out in the snow. The lounge also has a television and a mini-kitchen.
The entrance to the cabin has a small terrace for admiring the views (and maybe even the Northern Lights!) and all of the windows look out onto the snow-tipped pine trees of the forest.
Other options
Panorama Huts
Supplements from: £189pp
The Panorama Huts are placed in the heart of nature, with a floor-to-ceiling window that makes you feel as though you are in the middle of the snow-drenched forest landscape while still being toasty warm.
The cabins showcase a modern, slick style, whilst blending in with the lodge’s natural surroundings.
Each cabin has two twin beds or one queen bed, which have been placed beside the window so that you can wake to views of the amazing forest. You never know, you may even have the chance to witness the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. There is space for a third bed should your group require it. On top of all of this, the cabins are complete with a private shower room and a kitchenette.
Riverside Apartments
Supplements from: £272pp
Situated on the peaceful riverside, with just the sound of the rapids splashing by, these semi-detached apartments put you in the heart of the wilderness whilst being only a short walk from the main hotel building and restaurant (250m away).
The Riverside Apartments showcase a traditional Finnish style, using wood from the local forests. Overlooking the river and snow-capped trees, the views are best enjoyed when you step outside the living room to your private terrace. Equipped with a fireplace and private sauna, the apartments are a brilliantly cosy place to come back to after a day exploring the Arctic.
Facilities
Each cabin comes with two twin bedrooms, a cosy living room with a fireplace, dining area with TV, small kitchen, toilet, private sauna with shower room and a private entrance. An extra bed is available in the living room with convertible sofa.
Personalise
Personalise this tour
Our pick
Wilderness Photography Expedition
From £155pp
A full day out in the wilderness is an incredible experience. The itinerary today can be altered slightly to fit the preferences of the group, but typically you will travel to two destinations during the day. At each location (and en route) there will be photographic opportunities. Travelling by minibus you will then continue on foot.
You will hike through the wilds, led by an experienced guide with excellent photography skills. They know all the secret spots, far away from the crowds. They will ensure that you get to experience a broad spectrum of landscapes and nature throughout the day.
Guests will need their own photography equipment for this trip.
Read moreDuration: Approx. 5-6 hours including transfers
Minimum age: 13 years old
Available: 01 Dec to 31 March at 9 am daily
Other options
Activities
Husky safari in the deep forest
From: £179pp
Get away from it all during and incredible dog sled adventure. After a transfer to the kennels, you will meet your dogs and be shown how to control a sled and team. You will then set off on a thrilling trip along the trails, for around 1.5 hours, taking in the stunning wilderness as you go. You’ll cover between 14 and 20km depending on conditions.
Back at the kennels, you will be served warm drinks and cookies as you hear stories and ask questions about the lives of the sled dogs.
Two adults will travel per team (one driving) and up to 2 children can also travel in the sled. Upgrades to single sleds are available on request.
Duration: Approx. 3 hours including transfers
Min age 4 years old
Available: 10 Jan to 04 Apr at 12.45pm daily
Northern Lights Photography
From: £202pp
We not only want to give you the best possible chance of seeing the Northern Lights with your own eyes, but we also want to help you capture them on camera too. Night-time photography can be a little tricky which is why we have an expert photographer on hand to help you with your camera settings. Locations are chosen based on the best weather conditions and our guides use their local knowledge to find the best photographic spots and you will travel by minivan in search of the Aurora. Guests will need to bring their own DSLR camera.
Included: Return transfers, all described activities, hot drinks and snacks, walking/snowshoe trip to reach perfect location, use of thermal clothing, guidance in English but other languages available on request
Duration: approximately 4-5 hours including transfers
Read more about this activityMinimum age: 13 years old
Available: 01 Dec to 18 March at 8 pm and 19 March to 31 March at 10 pm
Image Credit: Visit Rovaniemi Rovaniemi Tourism & Marketing Ltd
Ice fishing
From: £106pp
Get an insight into Lappish culture by trying your hand at ice fishing. You’ll be taken by car to one of the many frozen lakes or ponds in the area where you’ll then learn how to ice fish. You’ll keep warm with sausages and hot drinks by the campfire as you wait in the tranquil surroundings for your catch of the day.
Duration: 3 Hours
Available: 01 Dec - 31 March at 11 am
Image Credit: Visit Rovaniemi Tourism & Marketing LTD
Northern Lights flight
From: £390pp
Cloud cover can sometimes obscure the Northern Lights when hunting at ground level and this incredible and innovative activity is the perfect solution.
The Northern Lights Flight is an amazing opportunity for you to get above low-lying clouds, meaning that if the solar activity levels are favourable, you should get the most incredible views of the Aurora Borealis. You will fly aboard a small, private plane, which has a maximum capacity of seven passengers.
Duration: approx. 2 hours including transfers, with approximately 1 hour of flight time including safety briefing and procedures.
Read more about this activityMinimum age: 4 years old
Minimum numbers: there is a minimum of 2 persons needed for the Northern Lights flight to go ahead. There are 7 seats on the plane, which will be filled on a group departure. Private flights can be requested but passengers would need to cover the cost of 7 passengers in order to guarantee no other persons are booked on the same flight.
Available: 01 Dec to 31 March at 8.30 pm daily
Please note: if reports show that cloud coverage is too high or weather conditions are unfavourable before take-off, then the Northern Lights flights will be cancelled. However, this is a rare occurrence and all money will be refunded when a flight does not take off, or the flight will be rescheduled for another day if possible. Weather patterns can change quickly however and so in some cases, a flight may take off and the cloud base may rise, sadly this is beyond anyone’s control and no refunds will be given in this case. Please be advised that the plane can fly to an altitude of around 3000 metres.
Image Credit: Arctic Circle Wilderness Lodge
Reindeer safari through the deep forest
From: £125pp
You’ll travel to a nearby reindeer farm just outside of Rovaniemi where you’ll meet real reindeer herders who will tell you all about their way of life. The main event, however, will be riding along a 3.5km trail through the forest in a reindeer-pulled sleigh. You’ll also have time to feed the animals with their favourite food.
Warm drinks and a pastry will be served during the activity as you enjoy tales about life in Lapland and the history of herding.
Duration: approx. 2.5 hours including transfers
Read more about this activityMin age 4 years old
Available: 01 Dec to 31 Dec at 9 am and 12 pm daily, 01 Jan to 31 March 10 am and 2 pm daily
Image Credit: Visit Rovaniemi Rovaniemi Tourism & Marketing Ltd
Snowshoeing
From: £71pp
Snowshoes help you walk across the thick snow with ease, giving you access to some incredible trails. You’ll either start your hike from the lodge today or be transferred to a starting point a little further away. Please note that it is possible that it will be the same route as your evening snowshoe hike. You will then head out into the wilderness with your guide, where you’ll easily get to grips using your snowshoes. Here, you’ll walk among the snowy forest and take in the full beauty of your surroundings. There will be a break around the fire to enjoy a warming hot drink and snack.
Duration: 2.5 hours
Min age: 8 years old
Available: 1 Dec to 31 March at 12 pm daily
Image Credit: Visit Rovaniemi Rovaniemi Tourism & Marketing Ltd
Visit to the frozen waterfalls in Korouoma National Park
From: £157pp
Korouoma is a beautifully rugged destination where a long crack in the bedrock has led to the formation of many waterfalls, which freeze in the winter months. They are situated around 1.5 hrs drive from Rovaniemi, but they are well worth the travel. The ice falls here are up to 60 metres high and a real sight to behold. You will enjoy a moderate hike around the area covering around 5km in varied terrain. You can take pictures of these huge ice formations before having a picnic lunch by an open fire.
Duration: approx: 5 and a half hours including transfers
Read more about this activityMin age: 8 years old
Available: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 9 am from 1 Dec to 15 April
Image Credit: Juho Kuva/Visit Finland
Snowmobile safari to a reindeer farm and Santa Claus Village
From: £179pp
You’ll head out on an exciting snowmobile ride to explore the landscape around you. Taking to the forest trails, you can admire the winter wonderland and see some amazing views along the way. After this thrilling ride, you’ll head to a local reindeer farm where you’ll have a short sleigh ride. Hot drinks and snacks will be served in a traditional Finnish Kota, along with a presentation on the many myths and legends of the Arctic Circle.
Following this, you’ll have lunch at the Santa Claus Village where you’ll also have free time to explore this magical village and even meet the man in red himself.
Read more about this activityThe trip lasts approximately 6 hours and the riding time on the snowmobile is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. You must be over 18 years old and hold a full driving license to drive a snowmobile. Two people will share a snowmobile or you can arrange for your own at an extra charge. Children can take part in this activity as they will travel in the sledge pulled by the guide’s snowmobile. You’ll also be awarded the International Reindeer Driver’s Licence and the Arctic Circle Crossing Certificate.
Duration: Approx. 6 hours including lunch and transfers
Minimum age: 4 years old
Available: 01 Dec to 31 March at 9 am daily
Image Credit: Visit Rovaniemi Rovaniemi Tourism & Marketing Ltd
Little Extras
Hot tub
Unwind even further and soak in your surroundings in the Hot Tub with spectacular views of the natural landscape.
Duration: 1- 3 hours
Price: £333 per booking
Image Credit: Arctic Circle Wilderness Lodge
Sauna
Saunas are a Finnish tradition where locals go to unwind with friends and family. You can have your own relaxing experience in the large riverside sauna.
The sauna is usually for 1-4 people but you can also reserve for larger groups (supplements will apply).
Contact us for a quotation.
Duration: 45 minutes
Price: £40 per booking (1-4 people)
Charge for additional people: £12 per person
Image Credit: Arctic Circle Wilderness Lodge
Reviews
Traveller Reviews
Rovaniemi - Aurora Hunting at the Arctic Circle Wilderness Lodge
08 January 2020
by Susan & Lisa Jago
All our activities were a lot of fun
Exceptional holiday, wonderful packed programme in a stunning country. The Finnish were without exception very friendly, lovely people.
20 March 2019
by Caroline Adcock
Thoroughly enjoyed all activities, snowmobiling was great. The night time snowmobiling was ethereal, quite magical. The day snowmobiling was quite a contrast as much faster. The guides were great, extremely helpful. Snow shoe hike was hard work and good fun. The reindeer rides were very gentle and through stunning surroundings.
It was a perfect mix of activities and relaxation
13 February 2019
by Tracey & Gino Dimatteo
Fantastic service from start to finish. Booking office staff very knowledgeable and helpful. Loved our perfect accommodation in the panoramic hut surrounded by a beautiful forest setting. Food was fabulous. This was one of my favourite holidays ever. All the staff were so friendly and welcoming. Loved Finland.
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