Harriniva – Northern Lights Winter Adventure
- Details
Details
This 7-night Arctic getaway takes you into Aurora territory in Finnish Lapland and is ideal for Northern Lights enthusiasts. Exciting Arctic activities like an exhilarating snowmobile expedition and a truly unforgettable overnight dog sledding adventure in a remote wilderness cabin await you.
You'll delve into a rich cultural encounter when you visit reindeer in their natural habitat. Next on the itinerary is an exhilarating snowmobile safari. This adventure offers the opportunity to venture deeper into the wilderness, providing a genuine feel for the vastness of Finland's untamed landscapes. Please note that this isn't a brief introduction; it's an extensive adventure that unfolds over the course of the day, spanning an impressive distance of 40 to 60 kilometres.
For many, the pinnacle of this holiday is the two-day overnight husky safari to a remote wilderness cabin. This transformative experience leaves a lasting mark on all participants, delivering an authentic taste of adventure.
You'll also get to try snowshoeing in the vast fells of Ylläs-Pallas National Park, as well as visit sister hotel Jeris to enjoy the renowned Arctic Sauna World. Saunas are a favourite Finnish pastime and there is no better way to relax after a week of thrilling winter adventures.
Your home away from home during this unforgettable Finnish escape will be Hotel Harriniva, where you will find the warmest of welcomes awaits you at the heart of this Arctic region. This week long adventure really does showcase the best of Lapland.
Important Information
Itinerary
The order of activities listed in this agenda is provided for guidance only. Your final and detailed itinerary will be provided either with your final travel documents (which will be emailed to you around a week prior to departure), or upon arrival.
Please note: If you’re travelling between 11th January and 15th February on direct flights, you will receive 7 lunches.
Please note that, due to the nature of this multi-day activity package, a good level of fitness is required to participate. For the overnight husky safari, each guest will drive their own team of dogs across varied terrain and in changeable weather conditions. You will be out enjoying your destination in an active way for fairly long periods of time during the snowmobile safari and husky safari and it is important to be aware that long days in sub-zero temperatures can be tiring (but exhilarating too!). Additionally, due to the remote nature of the overnight husky safari, if you have to be evacuated for any reason, you will be charged an evacuation fee of 460 euros per person and you will also have to pay for alternative accommodation at the main hotel.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at the airport, you will be taken on a one-hour transfer to your accommodation for the week. You will be greeted at reception and be given your cold-weather clothing before nestling into your cosy accommodation.
Dinner will be served in the main hotel and you can spend the evening settling in. However, as you are in the Northern Lights territory, we highly recommend keeping an eye on the night sky.
Included Meals: Dinner
Reindeer and Lapland are inseparable, and today, you’ll get a glimpse into the everyday life of a reindeer herder.
Your adventure begins with a scenic ride in a snowmobile pulled sleigh to the reindeer in their natural habitat where you can observe them up close, learn about their care and hear fascinating stories about the traditions and practices of local reindeer herding.
Sausages, sweet pastries and hot drinks will be served around an open fire during the visit today.
In the afternoon, you’ll return to the hotel for some well-deserved relaxation.
For this evening, why not book one of the Northern Lights activities on offer? Jump on a snowmobile-pulled carriage that will take you to a campfire site located in a prime location for seeing the Northern Lights. Please see our personalise section for more details.
Snowmobiles are a popular way of transportation in Lapland, facilitating travel between isolated communities but also offering an exhilarating opportunity for guests to venture further into Lapland’s breathtaking landscapes.
Before embarking on your snowmobile adventure, you’ll receive a comprehensive safety briefing and detailed instructions. You will travel two people per machine, allowing for a shared experience as you embark on a safari covering an impressive 40 to 60 kilometres of unspoiled terrain. Your journey will lead you through snowy forests and across frozen lakes and rivers, offering an immersive exploration of the pristine wilderness.
If you both have a full driving licence, and are 18 years or older, you can take turns driving during the trip to make it more memorable.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experience the unparalleled thrill of embarking on your own Arctic adventure as you guide a team of huskies through the wilderness (one person per sled). This special holiday takes the traditional sled dog experience to the next level by offering an overnight stay in a wilderness cabin.
After checking out of your hotel room (rest assured, your luggage will be securely stored for you at the hotel), you’ll meet with your personal team of 4 to 6 eager huskies at a nearby sled dog centre. Under the expert guidance of your musher guide, you’ll assist in harnessing your team of dogs. Following the loading of sleds, a comprehensive safety briefing will be provided by your guide before embarking on your thrilling expedition.
The dogs’ enthusiasm for the trail is noticeable; their infectious excitement is conveyed through joyful howls and barks, underscoring their eagerness to commence the journey. Once you release the sled’s brake, the dogs fall into a focused, determined silence.
Your ultimate destination is a remote wilderness cabin. Upon reaching your base, the entire group will work together to gather essential supplies like wood and water. Your guide will take charge of preparing the evening meal, building a fire, and heating up the wood-fired sauna (a Finnish essential, even in the wilderness). Your priority will then be to feed and settle your team of dogs for the night.
The specific cabin you’ll sleep in will be determined by the route and conditions. Most of these cabins don’t have running water, electricity or indoor toilets and accommodation is dormitory style. It’s undeniably a rustic experience, but your Arctic-grade sleeping bag will keep you warm and comfortable. Once the fire crackles, the sauna beckons with its warmth, and dinner is served, you’re bound to have an unforgettable overnight stay.
An added perk of this remote location is its distance from any light pollution, making it an ideal spot to witness a potential Northern Lights display if the conditions are favourable. So, try not to fall asleep too early this evening.
This morning, you’ll be awakened by what might sound like a pack of wolves nearby, but don’t worry – it’s simply the eager dogs, ready for another exciting day! After a hearty breakfast, you’ll hit the trail once more with your trusty team.
As you cover around 25 kilometres and make your way back towards the sled dog centre, you’ll have the opportunity to further practice your mushing skills.
Saying goodbye to your furry companions is bound to be a bittersweet moment. However, once you return to your hotel, you can look forward to a delicious meal and a soothing hot shower.
Today you will try snowshoeing at Ylläs-Pallas National Park, known for its vast, breathtaking. Pallas is renowned for having the cleanest air in Europe and here you’ll hike through snowy forests and climb to panoramic viewpoints, led by an expert guide who will share stories and knowledge of Arctic nature along the way.
After dinner this evening, don’t forget to keep an eye on the night sky. Alternatively, you might like to add an Aurora activity, please see the ‘Personalise’ section for more details.
Today begins with a transfer to Harrinivas sister hotel at Jeris. Here you can enjoy the lakeside well-being facilities.
Saunas are a popular and traditional Finnish pastime. The locals use it as a space for relaxation, meditation as well as mental and physical cleanliness – and Jeris is a luxurious spa facility for you to experience this in. What’s more, Jeris prides itself on its eco-friendly approach to tourism.
For example, geothermal heating is generated from the Jerisjärvi lake, electricity is 100% renewable from wind, water or solar power and the shower water is from the nearby under earth fountain.
The four saunas have been carefully themed on the four elements; earth, air, fire and water, as these are found in all traditions and shamanic wellbeing rituals. These elements combine to create a fifth, steamy löyly, the spirit of sauna. Each element is represented by Finnish gods or goddesses, as the protectors of the saunas:
Sauna of Tapio (Earth). Tapio is the antlered king of the forest and in this sauna, you will feel the earthly and forest surroundings of the Finnish wilderness. It is split into north, east, south and west, each providing a different kind of löyly.
Sauna of Ukko (Fire). Ukko is the king of all gods and master of lightning, fire and air. This smoke sauna is the most traditional, and a favourite among the Finns. The heating process carries the smoke throughout to create a dark colouring, smokey scent and if you choose, a fiery heat.
Sauna of Vellamo (Water). Vellamo is the goddess of water and the ruler of lakes and rivers. This sauna has a panoramic view over Lake Jeris, a holy place for Sámi people, offering a calming atmosphere. The soft and moist löyly means you can stay in for longer for extended relaxation.
Sauna of Ilmatar (Air). Ilmatar is the goddess of wind, and the first mother in the beginning of times. This sauna has no fire or thick walls – instead infrared heaters are situated inside a traditional kota for a soft and gentle heat. Think of this as half sauna, half relaxation room.
The really brave (and healthy) can also take a dip in the icy lake waters – a technique the Finns swear by!
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, you will transfer to the airport to catch your return flight home after a truly memorable adventure in Lapland.
Included Meals: Breakfast
What's included?
- Return flights from London to Kittilä (either direct or via Helsinki). Flight routes are subject to change
- Return airport transfers
- 6 nights’ hotel wilderness double/twin room and 1 night in wilderness cabin accommodation
- 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches*, 7 dinners
- Visit the Reindeer
- Snowmobile safari
- Snowshoeing
- Arctic Sauna World
- Overnight husky safari
- Cold weather clothing for the duration of your stay
- Fully qualified wilderness guides and instructors
- 24/7 assistance from our UK based operations team and in destination support from our local partners
- * If you’re travelling between 11th January and 15th February on direct flights, you will receive 7 lunches.
Accommodation
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Ideally located in the north-west corner of Finland, high above the Arctic Circle and in the very heart of the Aurora Zone, Harriniva Adventure Resort serves as a perfect base for your adventure holiday.
Welcoming guests for lover 50 years now, the hotel has developed a growing reputation for its warm ambience and the large range of enjoyable activities on offer.
Hotel facilities
The hotel has a range of facilities that have been designed to make your stay here as enjoyable as possible.
- There is free Wi-Fi throughout the main building for guest use, in our experience, we have found it works best in the main reception and dining area
- The hotel restaurant has a lively, buzzing atmosphere as people excitedly discuss the adventures they have taken part in that day. The meals are served in a buffet style with two or three choices for each course. The food here is hearty and wholesome
- The hotel also has a pub serving a range of beers, wines and spirits – this is the perfect place to unwind and relax with your fellow guests in the evening
- Tea and coffee are available free of charge throughout the day in the hotel restaurant / bar area.
- In the main reception area of the hotel, you will find a small gift shop selling a range of postcards, soft toys and handcrafted products. There is also a selection of snacks that can be purchased
- A sauna is available for guest use with separate facilities for men and women. This is free of charge and is heated every evening for around three hours
- The hotel also has an Aurora Wellness Centre (situated a short walk away on the riverbank), where you can enjoy a range of therapies such as facials or massages. A real treat after a day of soaking up the pristine wilderness! During peak periods, we would strongly recommend booking therapies in advance through reception (all payable locally and we recommend booking in advance if possible)
- Snowshoes and cross country skis are available to hire for a small charge and there are marked trails surrounding the hotel for those with some experience. For those interested in downhill skiing, reception will be able to arrange a taxi to the nearby ski resort of Olos (payable locally)
Double Room
Harriniva has 64 guest bedrooms which consist of twin or double rooms. Triple rooms are also available on request. Decorated in traditional Scandinavian style, all rooms have an en-suite shower room and a hairdryer.
Twin Room
Harriniva has 64 guest bedrooms which consist of twin or double rooms. Triple rooms are also available on request. Decorated in traditional Scandinavian style, all rooms have an en-suite shower room and a hairdryer.
Wilderness Double Room
Decorated in traditional Scandinavian style, these bedrooms were refurbished in 2018. The rooms include double/twin beds and an unfolding sofa suitable for 1 adult or 2 children. All rooms have an en-suite shower room and a hairdryer, as well as a small seating area.
Wilderness Twin Room
Decorated in traditional Scandinavian style, these bedrooms were refurbished in 2018. The rooms include double/twin beds and an unfolding sofa suitable for 1 adult or 2 children. All rooms have an en-suite shower room and a hairdryer, as well as a small seating area.
Wilderness Suite
Spacious wilderness style room, decorated in traditional Scandinavian style, these rooms were refurbished in 2018. Located on the ground floor, close to reception these rooms include double/twin beds and an unfolding sofa suitable for 1 adult or 2 children. All rooms have an en-suite shower room and a hairdryer, as well as a small seating area.
Safari House
For those travelling on our longer husky or snowmobile experiences, your nights at the hotel will be spent in shared accommodation in one of Harriniva’s Safari Houses. Each has sleeping facilities, a shower room, toilet and a sauna. Some safari houses are on site, whereas others are located 3km from the hotel. If you are staying off-site, you will be transferred to and from the hotel for meals.
Harriniva Riverside Cabins
Set in a picturesque, riverside location and ranging from 39m² to 47m², Harriniva’s Riverside Cabins are ideal for larger groups, or those wanting a little more space and privacy during their trip. Each cabin sleeps five people in total.
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Wilderness cabin accommodation is reserved for those people enjoying overnight safaris. There can surely be few better forms of escape from the everyday stresses (which could include laptops, mobiles and your day job) than a night in one of these cabins. Their isolation also means that the views of the night sky are incredible.
The Northern Lights could well pay you a visit should conditions be right and, if the sky is clear, you will never forget the sight of the galaxy overhead.
The title is fairly self-explanatory as the cabins are located in the wilds. The cabins that you visit are determined by the conditions of the trails you are using. They are varied in their set up but all offer the same incredible experience of complete silence in the evening (not guaranteed if you are dog sledding as the huskies do like a howl now and then!).
Some of the cabins are more basic than others, as some have no electricity or running water. Everyone will join the guide to help set up camp by collecting wood and water if needed. Participating enhances the wilderness experience.
Once the fire is lit, the food is cooked. The guides prepare your meals over an open fire and our guests always provide exceptional feedback on the meals that the guides rustle up.
Should you have specific dietary requirements, please mention these at the time of booking.
There are no showers or bathroom facilities in the cabins but this is all part of the adventure. Scandinavia is renowned for its saunas and the wilderness cabins are no exception. Once heated, you can steam clean in the sauna. The toilet facilities are normally a short walk from the cabin and are compostable. We certainly recommend a head torch for any ventures to the toilet during the night!
In most cases, the sleeping arrangements are dormitory style. You will be given your own arctic-grade sleeping bag in which to sleep and, combined with your thermals and the open fire, this should keep you lovely and warm.
You will carry with you all that you need for any stay in the cabins, so luggage is typically restricted to the essentials. Your main bag will be securely stored back at the hotel and a safe is provided for your valuables.
There is something so refreshing about realising that you can strip back your belongings and enjoy such a simple but satisfying experience.
Image Credits: Antti Pietikainen and Pete Kennington
Tour Map
Additional Info
Adult (18+) price is per person, based on 2 adults sharing
Tour terms, click here
Booking conditions click here
Please note that, due to the nature of this multi-day activity package, a good level of fitness is required to participate. For the overnight husky safari, each guest will drive their own team of dogs across varied terrain and in changeable weather conditions. You will be out enjoying your destination in an active way for fairly long periods of time during the snowmobile safari and husky safari and it is important to be aware that long days in sub-zero temperatures can be tiring (but exhilarating too!). Additionally, due to the remote nature of the overnight husky safari, if you have to be evacuated for any reason, you will be charged an evacuation fee of 460 euros per person and you will also have to pay for alternative accommodation at the main hotel.
Key Facts
For your best chance to see the Northern Lights, contact the UK’s only Aurora specialists
