Expert Astronomer Led Escorted Tour – Dark Skies and Northern Lights
- Details
Details
During this fully-escorted tour, you will immerse yourself in the unrivalled landscapes of northern Finland during this 5-night trip, staying at two unique wilderness hotels. Located deep in dark-sky territory, this guided tour begins with three nights at Wilderness Hotel Juutua, which is located in the small village of Inari. The area has been of huge significance for the indigenous Sámi people for centuries. With its abundance of tradition and local culture, this destination provides a restorative escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
For your final two nights of the tour, you will stay in a glass-roofed Aurora Cabin at Wilderness Hotel Muotka, nestled amongst the trees and with fantastic views of the night sky. Both properties are much loved for their endearing hospitality, Nordic décor and brilliant guides.
This region of northern Finland boasts a Northern Lights track record that approaches or surpasses other popular Arctic destinations, and it is a fantastic place to enjoy evenings stargazing with minimal light pollution and beautifully dark skies.
Your Escorted Tour Guides
Dan Monk
Dan Monk is the Director of the Gillian Dickinson Astro-Imaging Academy at Kielder Observatory in Northumberland. He has always been fascinated by the night sky and constellations. One Christmas, he received a telescope and would gaze into the sky from his back garden at every opportunity. Growing up in Sunderland, Dan's visibility of the night sky was limited by light-pollution from the city, but his passion continued to develop and through his teen years, he invested in more advanced telescopes.
Visiting Kielder Observatory was a significant moment for Dan as he relished in the undisturbed dark skies of western Northumberland. After volunteering at the observatory, Dan became a full-time member of the team and began his dream role.
Most recently, Dan has developed a keen interest in astrophotography and a hunger to capture an image of the perfect night sky. Dan was recently interviewed by Dan Walker on Channel 5 news to discuss the recent Northern Lights sightings in the UK. Dedicated to his field, he insisted he would have to do a pre-record as he didn't want to miss any further sightings that evening.
We are delighted to have Dan's passion and expertise for what promise to be truly memorable escorted tours through Northern Finland.
Matt Robinson
Matt Robinson will be our other tour guide for our escorted tours. Matt, also worked at the Kielder Observatory with Dan as well as hailing from the hotbed of astronomy talent that is Sunderland.
Matt's first experience in astronomy was in 1997, when his uncle showed him Comet Hale Bopp through some binoculars and since then he hasn't looked back.
After a wonderful 18 months at Kielder Observatory, Matt was given opportunities to work in astronomy in other parts of the world. These opportunities have allowed him to live in the Arctic Circle in Finland and Norway under the spectacular Aurora Borealis. Matt has also spent time in the Maldives where he worked as an astronomer in an Instagram famous hotel, and even to Chile where he covered an unforgettable total solar eclipse.
Matt is now based in Gothenburg, Sweden as our astronomy expert and tour guide.
Dan Pye
Dan Pye is Director of Astronomy and Science Communication at Kielder Observatory.
When he left school, he moved on to study TV and Film production and then Theatrical Studies at University, but Astronomy and Star Gazing was always embedded as a strong hobby. During his 20s he spent some time in retail, and broadcasting then moved on to opening a Cafe in Durham, which centred around scientific themes.
He visited the Observatory around 10 times before volunteering, and after a few months became part of the full time team, and what a journey it has become. Dan's primary specialities are Observational Astronomy, Astrophotography, and Meteorites. When he's not star gazing, he likes to make sure the kit is functioning correctly, producing video content, making improvements, or testing the boundaries of technology to bring more exhibits to the Observatory.
We're thrilled to have Dan on board for this astronomy tour, using his expertise in astronomy and astronomy photography to guide you though your dream trip.
About Kielder Observatory
Kielder Observatory is one of the most remarkable places to visit in the whole of the UK. A public astronomical observatory which is second to none, under some of the darkest skies in the world where you'll find "infinite inspiration" and wonders you could never have imagined!
Kielder Observatory is a public outreach astronomical facility located in Kielder Forest, in some of the darkest skies in Europe and the third largest protected Dark Sky reserve in the world.
Located in Northumberland, England. It is situated just half a mile from the Scottish border on Black Fell near James Turrell's Kielder Skyspace. The site was chosen as one of the locations in the UK which has the least amount of intrusive light pollution.
The primary function of the observatory is outreach via public events. The goal being to bring in members of the public of all ages from school children in primary school, and upward. The aim being to engage in discussions and observations of the Universe. We to do this in a way that is friendly, informative and interesting, through our amazing team of astronomers, guest speakers and volunteers.
The observatory hosts upwards of 40 of these amazing events every month, designed for members of the public. Since its opening in 2008, the observatory has played host to tens of thousands of people to observe and engage with the night sky, via talks, activities and telescope observing sessions.
Important Information
This holiday requires a minimum of 10 people to run. Maximum 26 people (approximately). Please speak to our Travel Experts for further information. Your flights will not be booked and confirmed until we have reached the minimum number of participants. Please see our booking terms and conditions for further details regarding minimum number of participants.
If the minimum number of bookings is not reached, we may make the decision to cancel the tour. This will always be at least 9 weeks before the departure date and we will of course notify you and refund your deposit if the trip is cancelled.
Itinerary
You will be greeted at Ivalo Airport and transferred to Wilderness Hotel Juutua, which is approximately 40 minutes’ away. A warm welcome awaits your arrival; once you’re settled and checked in, dinner this evening will be served in the celebrated restaurant, Aanaar. The kitchen here offers a delightful menu of traditional Lappish dishes created using organic and locally sourced ingredients wherever possible.
Cold weather clothing is provided to you either the day of your arrival or the day after, depending on your arrival time.
Please note that the order of activities within your itinerary is subject to change and the agenda below should be used as a guide only. The exact order of your agenda will be confirmed upon arrival at the hotel. Airport transfers are grouped to set arrival and departure times, all other times will require a transfer supplement.
Included Meals: Dinner
Following a hearty breakfast, you’ll have some time this morning to meet with your group of like-minded travellers, and enjoy an Astro presentation from your expert tour guide. Your guide will discuss all aspects of astronomy and the Northern Lights and it will be a great opportunity to ask questions and exchange stories before your activities begin.
Later this morning, you’ll be escorted to a nearby husky farm where your team of dogs will be thrilled to greet you. A safety briefing and full instructions of how to navigate the sled and trails will be given before setting off in teams of two. Then, you’ll venture out onto a wintry trail past lakes and through the snow-capped forests, experiencing first hand the life of a musher. At the mid-way point, you will swap positions with your partner and nestle down into the sleigh for a beautiful ride back to base. This truly is an unforgettable way to soak up the scenery and tick off a must-do Lapland pursuit. Altogether, your husky experience will last three hours including one hour of driving time.
This afternoon’s itinerary is up to your choosing. Perhaps you’ll snuggle up with a good book in a spot overlooking the beautiful River Juutua or grab some snowshoes to continue exploring the surrounding nature (payable locally). Dinner this evening will consist of a delectable three-course meal in restaurant Aanaar. The chefs tell the story of the northern wilderness through their award-winning cuisine. Expect dishes such as reindeer smoked with pine needles or for a vegetarian alternative, you may sample two times cooked parsley root with fermented blueberry-sriracha glaze.
After dinner tonight, it’s time for your first exciting evening expedition! From the comfort of your sleigh, your expert guide will pull you by snowmobile, leading the way to a special campsite while you (hopefully) admire an enchanting display of the Northern Lights and enjoy the dazzling beauty of the stars above. Listen to fascinating tales and interesting facts about this natural phenomenon around a blazing fire. Your guide will serve up delicious hot drinks as you soak up the Arctic atmosphere. This experience will last around three hours.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A more leisurely pace has been set for today, giving you the freedom and flexibility to book any additional activities that interest you. After breakfast, there will be an escorted group outing to the mesmerising Jäniskoski rapid which is the largest of the ten rapids at Juutua river. You’ll stroll about 1km to the campsite and learn about how the river plays an integral role in Inari Sámi Culture. Together, you will grill sausages over the open fire and enjoy warm drinks to the soundtrack of the running water and wildlife. You will be out for approximately 1.5 hours today.
In order to maximise your chances of capturing the Northern Lights, after dinner tonight, an Aurora Hunt by car/minibus has been organised for this evening. By travelling this way, your guide can quickly change route and cover further distances quickly in accordance with the Aurora forecast. Inari is one of the best spots for Aurora searching and stargazing as it has very little light pollution. Fingers crossed your luck is in tonight! The hunt will last around three hours and hot drinks and snacks will be provided.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, you will say farewell to Wilderness Hotel Juutua and hello to its sister property, Wilderness Hotel Muotka, approximately 1.5 hours’ drive away. Muotka is located close to Urho Kekkonen National Park and the magical landscapes of the surrounding taiga forest will ensure your holiday is one to remember. You will spend two nights here in one of the fantastic glass-roofed Aurora Cabins, which allow you to gaze up at the dark skies from the comfort of your bed.
After lunch this afternoon, you will enjoy a snowmobile safari into the Finnish wilderness. You’ll receive full instructions from your professional guide, including a safety briefing and a driving lesson to ensure you are comfortable with the machine. When everyone feels happy and confident, your guide will lead the group on a snowmobile safari through the captivating surroundings. You must be at least 18 years of age and hold a valid driver’s license to drive a snowmobile and you will ride two per sled, with the chance to swap drivers half way. The duration of this activity is approximately two hours.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today has been left free for you to enjoy as you please, whether that means relaxing in Muotka’s cosy lounge area by the roaring fire, or perhaps hiring some snowshoes or cross-country skis and exploring the local trails. There are also lots of extra activities to add on, should you wish. Please speak to one of our Travel Experts for further information.
With a little luck, your trip will climax in a spectacular display of stars and Northern Lights this evening. After dinner, prepare for your final Aurora Camp. Marvel at the northern sky from the comfort of the sleigh while your guide pulls you by snowmobile to the campsite. Keep warm with hot drinks by the crackling fire as you await the lights to make an appearance. You will be out for approximately two and a half hours this evening.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, you’ll transfer back to Ivalo airport for your flights home. Sadly, your winter getaway has come to an end and it’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travellers and dedicated guide. Undoubtedly, you’ll have made valued friendships and lasting memories to take home from this beautiful corner of the world.
Included Meals: Breakfast
What's included?
- Flights: return flights from London to Ivalo (via Helsinki). Flight routes are subject to change.
- Transfers: return grouped airport transfers based on set flight times
- Accommodation: 3 nights in a standard double room at Wilderness Hotel Juutua and 2 nights in a double/twin Aurora Cabin at Wilderness Hotel Muotka. Upgrade options are available for a supplement and subject to availability
- Meals: 5 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 5 Dinners (1 dinner will be a 3-course tasting menu). Drink allowance for dinners
- Astro presentation
- Husky safari
- 2 Aurora camps
- Winter walk to Jäniskoski rapids
- Aurora hunt by car
- Snowmobile Safari
- Expert tour group leaders from arrival on day 1 to departure on day 5 (1-2 guides/group leaders, depending on group size)
- Cold weather clothing is provided for the duration of your stay
- Fully qualified guides and instructors during activities
- Aurora alert for the duration of your stay
Accommodation
|
|
|
|
The refurbished Wilderness Hotel Juutua is situated right in the heart of Inari village.
Double Wilderness Room
These rooms are in the main building of the hotel and as this is the original hotel building, they are slightly smaller than some of the other rooms. Recently renovated though, they are very tastefully decorated and offer a cosy base with very easy access to the restaurant of course (no need for winter clothing as you simply walk downstairs).
Each room has an ensuite bathroom with a wet-room shower (includes toiletries), they offer a flat screen TV, hairdryer and a kettle. Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. All of the Wilderness Rooms in the main building are double rooms and cannot be turned into twins.
Juutua Suite
These upgraded rooms are a very short walk from the main hotel building. Every suite has either a terrace or balcony (depending on which floor they are on) ideal for Northern Lights viewing in the middle of the night! They each have their own private sauna too which is perfect for relaxing after a day of winter adventures. The rooms also have their own tea and coffee-making facilities fridge and hairdryers.
Arctic Premium Room
These rooms are situated just a short walk from the main hotel and restaurant. They can be either double or twin and provide a relaxing and cosy retreat. Some of the Arctic rooms offer the space for an extra bed (on request).
They each have an en-suite bathroom with shower, as well as tea and coffee making facilities and Wi-Fi.
There is also an Arctic Family Room available which offers a double bed and a separate bedroom with twin beds, as well as a sofa bed, meaning that there is space for up to 5 people.
|
|||||||
|
Wilderness Hotel Muotka resides around 40km from the main town of Ivalo, tucked away in the corner of North-East Finland. Recently renovated and restored it is owned and run by the same couple as the popular Nellim Wilderness Hotel, Mari and Jouko Lappalainen. They run the hotel with the same hard-working ethos and it exudes the same warmth and charm for its much-welcomed guests. The hotel boasts some wonderful scenery, tucked away in the forested-fells with roaming reindeer frequently seen amongst the trees. It consists of two main accommodation buildings, one with the majority of the bedrooms and another with hosts additional bedrooms, the main restaurant and the reception area. Hotel facilities
|
Wilderness Room
These double or twin bedrooms sleep a maximum of 2 people and are split across the two main buildings at Muotka. All rooms are en-suite with shower and hair dryer. The décor offers Scandinavian charm, and these rooms are a warm and comfortable base after a day of adventure. They are approximately 20m² in size.
Riverside Room
The Riverside Room at Muotka is a real favourite with guests. As the name suggests it is right next the stream which gently flows through the grounds and the setting is incredibly peaceful. The room has its own entrance and is log built, giving it a unique interior. There is a shower room with private sauna, hair dryer and tea and coffee making facilities. Featuring a double bed it is a wonderful rustic retreat for couples.
Premium Wilderness Room
These double rooms are more spacious (approx. 25m2) and feature stylish, modern décor. They are ideal for couples and have the added bonus of tea and coffee making facilities. They are situated in their own building (which offers its own sauna for guests to enjoy), just a short distance from the main restaurant.
Superior Sauna Room
Muotka Wilderness Hotel has 16 Superior Sauna rooms, located a short distance from the main hotel building. These rooms offer modern Scandinavian interiors and plenty of space. They are ideal for small families as they have a double bed and a convertible sofa bed (so they sleep a max of 3 – 4 people). The rooms are approximately 33m² and each separate building has four superior sauna rooms inside.
As the name suggests, each room has its own private sauna which provides a wonderful way to relax after a day of activities. They also offer tea and coffee facilities.
Riverside Suites
In keeping with your surroundings, the Riverside suite is beautifully constructed from local “kelo” wood and combines traditional aesthetics with modern comforts. The suite contains a bathroom with shower and private sauna, a fireplace and tea and coffee making facilities. With a double bed and sofa bed, the suite can accommodate 4 people in comfort. The suite overlooks a small stream running through the grounds of the hotel.
Panorama Log Cabin
Situated not far from the main hotel, these traditional log-built cabins are a wonderful upgrade option and provide a self-contained base with incredible views, making them very popular for couples. They are just a short distance from the main building.
Each log cabin is approximately 42m² and has a double bed (log built!) and space for extra beds (sleeping a maximum of 4 guests).
The real gem is the shower room with private sauna which coupled with the log burning stove offers the ideal way to warm up after a day in the wilds.
The cabins also offer a small kitchenette (meals are all served in the main restaurant), fridge, seating area, tea and coffee facilities and hairdryer.
Riverside Log Cabin
The most exclusive accommodation available at Muotka, these stunning rustic log-built cabins are perfectly situated with views over the stream, a short walk from the main building. Beautifully appointed, with a fireplace in the living room, a shower room with private sauna, and kitchenette (and fridge), the cabins have sleeping space for 5 people and are around 72 m². There is a double bedroom downstairs and three single beds in the loft (accessed by very steep steps). There is also a second toilet in the loft. The cabins also contain a hairdryer and tea and coffee making facilities. Please note that these cabins require a minimum number of 4 guests in order to be booked.
Aurora Cabin
Guests have the chance to spend the night in one of their 20 magnificent Aurora Cabins, just a short walk from the main building. These stunning partially glass-roofed buildings, offer guests an exceptional overnight Aurora hunting experience.
You can enjoy the space and feel of a cabin during the day and the Aurora viewing benefits of a glass igloo at night, as you sleep under a heated glass roof. This means that you are provided with the most wonderful views of the night sky from the comfort of your bed.
The cabins are all approx. 30m² with double bed (there is space for additional beds so these can sleep a maximum of 4 people, but we recommend no more than 3 adults) and en-suite shower room. There are tea and coffee facilities provided.
Tour Map
Additional Info
Price is based on 2 persons sharing a room and a minimum of 10 people travelling per group departure
Tour terms, click here
Booking conditions click here
Payment and Cancellation Terms:
If the minimum number of bookings is not reached, we may make the decision to cancel the tour. This will always be at least 9 weeks before the departure date and we will of course notify you and refund your deposit if the trip is cancelled.
Key Facts
For your best chance to see the Northern Lights, contact the UK’s only Aurora specialists
